Saying yes to a dream wedding gown is every bride’s dream come true. However, since this is such an important milestone, choosing a beautiful princess or elegant dress has long not been a decision of the bride alone.
Depending on different cultures or family traditions, the opinions of the bride and groom’s families and friends may need to be considered before she could wear that dress on her important day.
Mai Atafo’s “Follow Mai Heart” collection, which was unveiled at the Heineken Lagos Fashion and Design Week 2017, was borne out of his experience with brides and their inability to pick the style, color, and cut of their choice due to societal or family opinions.
He believes that everyone should be able to follow their hearts and not their heads when it comes to their big day.
#1 Lace Mermaid Elegance
Source: Mai Atafo
Atafo was born in Ile-Ife, Osun State, and spent some of his early years in Lagos.
Initially, he was a university student who his friend had always viewed as a fashionista. He would help them go to major markets like Onitsha to get clothes.
#2 Sweetheart Silhouette Dream
Source: Mai Atafo
#3 Bridal Radiance Gown
Source: Mai Atafo
As he started to understand the quality of clothes even better, he would spot some nice designs which he could not afford to buy, and this became the motivation to create them himself.
Later on, Mai spent a certain period of time working for Guinness Nigeria, immersing himself in the dynamically creative nature of marketing. Not long after, he spotted an opportunity to set his foot in the fashion industry—fashion designing.
#4 Chantilly Lace Fantasy
Source: Mai Atafo
#5 Regal White Floral Gown
Source: Mai Atafo
“I started by making asooke waistcoats for weddings for a couple of friends. Usually, the brides had their colours sorted out, but the guys could not afford to get a new purple or lilac suit, so I thought we could still do something with the colour of the day.
I specially ordered lilac and purple asooke with which I designed the waistcoats. Everybody looked good on the day, and people really liked the outcome. I did it for about six other weddings, and that was the beginning of Mai Atafo Inspired,” he recalled.
#6 Regal Blue Blossom Gown
Source: Mai Atafo
#7 Periwinkle Petal Train
Source: Mai Atafo
By the time of launching the “Follow Mai Heart” campaign in partnership with Moet and Chandon as a celebration of his 40th birthday, Mai Afato had gained numerous fashion rewards and recognition, making him “the best suit tailor in Africa”.
His collection features uncommon colors and styles for wedding outfits and would be great on any bride, depending on her sense of style and fashion.
#8 Ivory Blossom Princess Dress
Source: Mai Atafo
#9 Deep V Floral Dream
Source: Mai Atafo
With the hope of conveying the idea that each bride’s opinion should be considered paramount, Mai Atafo ensures to include a variety of different styles for our main character to choose from.
He employed the use of celebrities such as Beverly Osu, Ihuoma Linda Ejiofor, Idia Aisen, and comedienne, Wofai. It is indeed a beautiful collection!
#10 Rose Blush Princess Gown
Source: Mai Atafo
#11 Sequined Bridal Jumpsuit
Source: Mai Atafo
If you thought bridal meant only white, think again! “Follow Mai Heart” bravely stepped beyond tradition, introducing a stunning palette of blush, nude, delicate pinks, and even serene blues.
Walking down the aisle in a gown that reflects your personality as much as your love story: a soft blush that whispers romance, or a subtle blue that speaks of calm and devotion. These are expressions of individuality.
#12 Pearl Embellished Princess
Source: Mai Atafo
#13 Off-Shoulder Goddess Gown
Source: Mai Atafo
And it’s not just about color. The collection is a masterclass in modern bridal design, featuring:
- Couture Structured Gowns: For the bride who loves a little drama and impeccable tailoring, these gowns are architectural wonders that flatter every curve.
- Soft Corsets: Blending classic elegance with contemporary comfort, these pieces offer support and shape without sacrificing that dreamy bridal feel.
- Unexpected Bridal Pants: Yes, you read that right! For the bride who dares to be different, who values comfort and a chic, modern edge, Mai Atafo presented bridal pants that are utterly sophisticated and undeniably cool.
#14 Long Sleeve Floral Dream
Source: Mai Atafo
#15 Embroidered Princess Gown
Source: Mai Atafo
#16 Graceful Long Sleeve Dress
Source: Mai Atafo
Mai Atafo himself beautifully encapsulated the essence of this collection, stating, “Decisions made with the heart are made out of love and love is the one thing that drives everything in life. This collection is an ode to brides and an inspiration to others because I always #FollowMAIHeart.”
This is about the journey, the courage to choose love, and the confidence to express it in every detail, right down to your stunning appearance.
Seeing celebrities and friends of the brand model these exquisite pieces only amplified the message: Every woman, no matter her background, deserves to feel like the most beautiful, authentic version of herself on her wedding day.
#17 Open Back Lace Gown
Source: Mai Atafo
#18 Enchanted Rose Gold Bridal
Source: Mai Atafo
Mai Atafo’s “Follow Mai Heart” collection is a beautiful reminder: your wedding appearance should be a true reflection of your heart. And when you follow your heart, you can’t go wrong!