Controversy has erupted over the stunning Cathedral dress worn by Ghanaian actress Nana Akua Addo at the Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards (AMVCA). A fashion brand has come forward to claim that the dress is their original design, sparking a debate on creative ownership.
Background of the Dispute
Nana's dress was designed by Nigerian fashion designer Mohammed Abbas. However, after the dress garnered international attention, some Western observers accused the actress of stealing the design, tagging a brand they claimed owned the original concept. In response, Almée Couture asserted ownership of the design.
According to the fashion brand, Nana initially approached them for a custom piece. They claim she shared a cathedral-inspired concept, which served as a starting point. Almée Couture then developed the final artistic vision, original sketch, silhouette, structural detailing, and overall execution. The brand stated that every element of the gown's identity, including proportions, architectural interpretation, construction details, textures, fabric manipulation, and couture development, was created and refined by their team through extensive creative work and craftsmanship.
Almée Couture's Statement
Almée Couture explained on Instagram that the project was originally developed with the client last year as part of a commissioned couture piece. They emphasized that after the cancellation of the project and a full refund of the deposit, it was clearly communicated and mutually acknowledged that Almée Couture would retain full ownership and exclusive rights to the developed design, sketches, and couture interpretation.
The brand later discovered that the final gown was produced elsewhere using the original sketch and developed design direction created by Almée Couture, without acknowledgment of their creative contribution. They clarified that they never claimed ownership over the cathedral concept itself, as inspiration can come from many places. However, they stressed that transforming a general concept into a complete couture design through original sketching, silhouette development, and artistic execution is the work of the designer and atelier behind the piece.
Industry Implications
This incident highlights the challenges of protecting intellectual property in the fashion industry. Almée Couture expressed deep respect for all creatives and artisans while emphasizing that original design development deserves proper acknowledgment, respect, and ethical consideration. The controversy continues to generate discussion among fashion enthusiasts and industry professionals.
