The first thing you saw when you entered luxury retailer Temple Muse was 10 models standing on podiums showcasing Kilentar’s spring 2026 collection. Founder and creative director Michelle Adepoju held an intimate presentation for the collection she named “Súrùlérè,” which means “patience is rewarding” in Yoruba. Adepoju transformed the store into a romantic and ethereal show space. “I was at so much peace when creating this collection. Everything really took time,” she said.
It was easy to see that this collection was a labor of love, what with its heavy hand-beaded garments and handwoven traditional textiles. Over the years, this buzzy brand has become synonymous with taking traditional crafting techniques and blending them with modern silhouettes. That means the pieces are wearable—beaded skirts, shirts, and dresses included.
Unlike previous seasons, which saw Adepoju create 20 to 30 looks, she kept it tighter here. “I really wanted to show that creating something small but curated, but also a very meaningful and powerful [collection],” she said. There are a plethora of designers, big and small, who fall into the cycle of creating more than they are able to sell. “We create so much, and a lot of it actually goes to waste,” she added. In an effort not to overproduce, she focused on several strong looks, including a yellow Akwete corset dress with lace and raffia detailing, and a multi-toned beaded V-neck top with a brown mini skirt. “As a brand owner, as a fashion designer, you are allowed to make your own rules. The world will adjust,” she said.
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