African Business Pioneer Uche Cole Elevating Villager to Zara-like Status Through Groundbreaking Construction
Villager: Africa's Emerging Global Fashion Powerhouse
In March 2025, Uche Cole, CEO and Co-Creative Director of Villager, unveiled his debut collection to the world. The collection, consisting of 22 tees, a hoodie, and a tagline that resonates deeply, "Roots Run Deep," marked the official launch of a brand that aspires to become Africa's most recognized global fashion house.
Uche Cole's journey in the fashion industry began long before the launch of Villager. In 2006, he learned screen printing in Festac Town, Lagos, Nigeria, without any machines or mentors. This humble beginning laid the foundation for a career that would see him establish his first label, SEEN Clothing, in the same year. The logo for SEEN Clothing was a fusion of world currencies ($€£N), symbolising a global perspective from its inception.
Uche Cole's wife, Stephanie Chiori, also played a significant role in his fashion ventures. Together, they launched DVNX Fit in 2017, starting with denim slippers and slides, and expanding into various products. In 2019, they birthed KHAVHIA Woman, a brand focused on bespoke bridal and Asoebi designs, which has since dressed celebrities across multiple countries and won LaMode Magazine's Women's Designer of the Year in 2021.
In 2024, Uche Cole and his brothers Emmanuel and Daniel shared a vision to build the "Zara of Africa." This vision led to the founding of Villager. Each tee, hoodie, or accessory in Villager isn't just worn - it's carried like a story.
Villager offers next-day shipping in key markets and boasts hubs in Manchester, London, Lagos, Dallas, and Atlanta. The brand's ambition extends beyond fashion, aiming to stand as a tribute to resilience, community, and cultural pride.
Plans are underway for a female line, new men's collections, and footwear prototypes. A defining moment for DVNX Fit came when Afrobeats' biggest star, Wizkid, wore their boxers, leading to discussions about a potential Starboy Clothing collaboration.
However, as of 2025, there is no current public information on the whereabouts or situation of Uche Cole and Villager based on available sources. Despite this, the Chioris' story continues to inspire persistence, faith, and vision in the world of fashion and beyond.
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