To say that Yinka Ilori had a major moment at NeoCon would be an understatement. Across Chicago’s Merchandise Mart, the British Nigerian designer’s debut commercial textiles and wallcoverings line with Momentum served as the trade show’s unofficial branding this year; visitors flocked in droves to snag a coveted tote bag adorned with the collection’s graphic motifs (which were out of stock by Monday afternoon). People might have come for the merch, but they stayed for the infectious energy that radiated from floor to ceiling in Momentum’s showroom — a modern Wonka factory rendered in sweet, candy-like hues that offered a refreshing change of pace from the contract market’s often subdued palette.

But beyond the joy they...