Ahkeke’s Founder: A Vision of Modern Femininity at LFW FW25
Written by Sharon Makanjuola
Last month, during London Fashion Week, AHKEKE debuted an airy and powerful Fall/Winter 2025 collection that explored modern femininity, fluid tailoring, and textural contrast. The brand, known for its ability to combine delicate craftsmanship with forceful silhouettes, has once again demonstrated its place in the ever-changing scene of modern fashion.
This season, AHKEKE experimented with sculptural draping, crisp tailoring, and surprising fabric pairings, resulting in a design that felt both classic and forward-thinking. The runway was a blend of soft and rigid, with billowing fabrics coexisting with precise cuts that projected quiet confidence.
I had the opportunity to ask the Founder, Ke Gong a few key questions about the Fall Winter 2025 collection, which was presented last month during London Fashion Week.
The Cold Magazine (CM): What inspired the FW25 collection, and how does it reflect the core identity of Ahkeke?
Ke Gong (KG): The FW25 collection was inspired by a moment of quiet beauty—discovering a hidden garden in London, where flowers were still blooming in the middle of winter. It was a reminder that resilience and elegance can exist together, which aligns perfectly with Ahkeke’s core identity. Our brand is dedicated to creating fashion that is both comfortable and effortless, a true addition to women’s lives, careers, and achievements. This season, we translated that idea into rich yet practical fabrics, versatile silhouettes, and a color palette inspired by winter florals thriving against the odds.
CM: Were there any cultural, historical, or artistic influences that shaped this season’s aesthetic?
KG: Absolutely. I was inspired by the contrast between nature and urban life—how flowers persist even in the most unexpected places. This duality is reflected in the collection: soft, organic shapes balanced with strong, structured tailoring. There’s also a nod to vintage botanical studies and traditional dyeing techniques, which influenced both our prints and our approach to colour.
CM: Were there any new materials or innovative techniques you experimented with for FW25?
KG: Yes, innovation is always key for us. This season, we introduced a machine-washable, tumble-dryable wool, allowing women to enjoy high-quality wool pieces without the hassle of special care. It’s part of our commitment to fashion that fits seamlessly into a modern woman’s busy life. As always, we focused on natural and recycled materials, ensuring that every piece is both luxurious and environmentally responsible.
CM: What message or emotion do you want people to feel when they see and wear this collection?
KG: Confidence, ease, and empowerment. Ahkeke is about making fashion that works for women, not the other way around. When someone wears this collection, I want them to feel comfortable and effortlessly put together—whether they’re heading to a meeting, traveling, or simply moving through their day.
CM: Can you share any behind-the-scenes moments or challenges in bringing this collection to life?
KG: One of our biggest challenges was perfecting the washable wool—making sure it remained soft and rich in color while also being durable. We also had a moment during the dyeing process where we discovered an entirely new shade—a slightly muted violet—that became one of the signature colors of the collection.
CM: How did you approach the styling and presentation for the Fashion Week showcase?
KG: The styling focused on versatility and effortless layering. We wanted to show how each piece could adapt to different occasions—structured coats over soft knits, relaxed tailoring that moves with the body. The presentation itself was immersive, designed to feel like stepping into a winter garden hidden within the city—serene yet powerful.
CM: What’s next for the brand following the FW25 launch?
We will continue to develop fashion that enhances women’s daily lives—more pieces that are elegant yet easy to wear, timeless yet modern. The success of our washable wool series has opened up new possibilities, and we’re exploring even more practical innovations in natural fabrics. Sustainability and wearability will remain at the heart of everything we do.
CM: How do you see Ahkeke evolving after this collection?
KG: Ahkeke is always evolving, but our mission remains the same: to create fashion that is a true plus in women’s lives. Moving forward, we will continue to explore high-quality, low-maintenance materials, versatile silhouettes, and smart design solutions that support women in their careers, travels, and everyday moments. FW25 is just the beginning of a larger vision—one where fashion is as functional as it is beautiful.