The Bite Magazine - Spring/Summer 2025 - Issue 37

bitedesignerprofile I n 2014, in rebellion against negative connotations about Africa, its immigrants, and people move- ments, Sierra Leone-born founder and creative director Foday Dumbuya created Labrum Lon- don, the Latin term for ‘having an edge’. He wanted to differentiate the stories his parents taught him about his homeland’s rich culture, music, and food from society’s views. Thus, the modern-day British African brand tells the untold story of West Africa to help bridge the gap between Western civilisation and African cultures. Foday’s designs are driven by a desire to create wearable yet idiosyncratic looks inspired by a lifetime of travel, exploration and pilgrimage. The brand doesn’t conform to the norm but shares a vision of inclusivity and style, encapsulating its founder’s journey and those who dare to forge a new future with liberating possibilities. It endeavours to be the voice, champion and platform for those who seek, cannot be contained and have a message to share. When we look at fashion brands, we usually only see the clothes, but there is a story behind the designs. In Labrum London’s case, these stories are intertwined with culture and community. “And then those stories end up on textiles, and that’s the connection with fashion,” the founder told UAL London College of Fashion in an in- terview. “With all our shows, it’s about our communities and our culture, how we move, how people move, and how they move their culture with them.” Labrum Special Designer Profile Jada Brookes discovers the beauty, past and community spirit of Sierra Leone’s Freetown through Labrum London collections. London LFW AW/22