Fashion Scout’s Merit Award for Tolu Coker

Former artist-in-residence at the Swatch Art Peace Hotel Tolu Coker has been awarded Fashion Scout’s Merit Award.

Tolu Coker will receive 20,000 pounds worth of support across three seasons from Fashion Scout, which will go toward expanding her business, and a fully sponsored runway show under the Fashion Scout program taking place during London Fashion Week, which runs from Feb. 14 to 19.

“It came as a surprise to hear that I’ve won but also a challenge preparing for a debut show because I’m a one-woman band. It’s such an honor and it’s come at such an important time because storytelling is such an integral part of my brand,” Tolu said.

Tolu Coker’s label champions sustainability — she is known for using upcycled denim, leather and recycled plastic scraps in her collection, which features bold embroidery and textures. 

“Tolu’s brand was an easy decision for the judging panel to award Merit to, due to her originality and exciting concept of implementing past generations and dual cultures into her work,” said Martyn Roberts, founder and creative director of Fashion Scout.