#Lisa Folawiyo Instagram

[thebeautifulzoo]

THE BEAUTIFUL ZOO X CHECHE UDUMA

Cheche Uduma is a young Lagos based artist, fashion stylist, creative designer and muse. He’s severally partnered with other creatives frequently working on fashion and beauty photo-series exploring the African youth. He in his own words, is often fascinated by the similarities between the male and female and their intersection and constantly peruses this theme in his works.

One of his photo-series projects titled BArE delves into the lushness of the black skin and the acceptance and celebration of our natural beauty. He’s also recently worked with musical artist Olu as a stylist and make-up artist on her ‘Aye’ film which is yet to be released.

We reached out to him to talk about to talk about his upbringing especially in fashion, the difference between fashion and styling, an exposure on his works and more. Read about it.

Also, check out some of his works on Instagram @checheuduma

1. Give an introduction about yourself and what you do.

My name is Cheche Uduma-Zik. I’m a fashion stylist, creative director, UI/UX designer and interface developer.

2. In your own words, what’s the difference between fashion and style?

Well to me, fashion is the main tree from which style branches out. Style or styling is being creative with fashion, mixing and trying out new things to create something different.

3. How did your journey into styling and designing start? What is about clothes that you’re drawn to?

From a young age I’ve always loved fashion, sketching clothes designs, playing with fabrics and watching fashion shows. But as I became more exposed, I found out about styling and after experimenting and weighing my options, I knew this was what I wanted to do. The first designer I ever knew was Valentino Gavarani, I was so obsessed, lol. I downloaded videos of his shows, pictures etc. Later on, I started researching and found Stella Jean, Alexander Wang, Dior, Balmain. I wasn’t really familiar with Nigerian designers until around 2012/2013 when I saw cousin Chiwendu Ukoha in these beautiful pieces from LFDW. I continued my research and fell in love with Ituen Basi, Lisa Folawiyo, Orange Culture, Lanre Da Silva, Fruche, Maxivive, Tzar Studios, Sisiano, Abiola-Olusola etc.

The opportunity to start styling came and I did my first shoot with Asamaige Ogaga in collaboration with Fruche (I’m sure grateful to him), Ifeoma Nwobu and Jordana. Ever since then it’s been a real experience, challenging I must say.

4. What’s your creative process? How do you get and stay inspired?

My process is not as complex as I thought it would be. I get the inspiration from ingenious or artistic things or my own original ideas (most of my projects are original), so I jot them down or form a story, create a mood board and get to work.

5. Who and what have influenced your method to working and creating art today? Who are your role models or mentors?

They are a lot of creative and mind blowing people in this industry and one person to me that really stands out in shaping the styling space in Nigeria is Daniel Obasi. I’ve always been a fan of his work and I really appreciate what he does.

6. Most of your works and projects show a lot of androgynous or unisex influences. What message are you trying to pass across with this approach?

There is a very amazing and vast similarity between the male and female. How the intersection births something extraordinary.

7. Earlier this year, you worked with photographer Asamaige Ogaga to create a photo-series on black beauty called BArE, can you tell us more about the project?

The BArE project was basically about how we should embrace our skin and enhance our natural beauty. Love yourself.  

8. You also recently worked with musical artist Olu on her Aye film as a stylist and make-up artist. What was the experience like being involved in that project?

This was the most eye opening experience for me, I really loved it and would definitely do more of this in the future. I saw how my creativity came through during stressful times, making myself a better stylist and being more responsible.

9. There’s a caption on one of your Instagram posts that reads: “…your masculinity doesn’t define you…” Can you explain more on that?

That caption is just about how the society makes masculinity like a religion, just because men are filled with testosterone doesn’t mean they should be put in a box.

10. How important is it for you to have platforms like Instagram where you can easily share your works to the public?

It’s very important to me really, its allowed me to know a lot more and be known by really creative people who have acknowledge my work.

11. You’ve worked extensively with photographers Jimi Agboola and Asamaige Ogaga in your career so far. Would you rather work with a friend or are you open to working with new people?

I’m open to working with new people anytime, but for Jimi and Ogaga, I love their creativity and I’m such a fan, it’s so inspiring when I work with them and magic happens.

12. What else do you do apart from designing clothes and styling? What are your hobbies and vices?

Oh yes, I watch a lot of Anime, that’s my escape route. I listen to music, watch TV or chill with friends. Apart from styling, I work in a tech company as a UI/UX designer and interface developer, that makes me a 9 to 5 guy.

13. What’s your best colour and why?

I have 2 – Black and Emerald Green. Why? They are sexy colours and they go well with my skin lol.

14. Any other Nigerian creatives you’d like to shout out?

John Affah, Ikenna Jnr, my cousin Bernard Samuel, Bloke, Shaun Kalu, OLU, Onyeka Nwobu, Abiola Olusola.

15. What’s the future like for Cheche?

Going beyond my expectations – stay tuned.

[wp-yahoo-style-1042-yahoopa-blog]

Meet the 5 African Brands Shaking Up the Fashion Industry

A growing number of African designers are emerging as movers and shakers in the fashion industry. (Photos: Courtesy of Brother Vellies, Omondi, Maki Oh, Lisa Folawiyo, and Oxosi)

As of late, films surrounding African-Americans like I Am Not Your Negro and Get Out  have become national, viral sensations. But the focus on the African community now has been greater than ever — particularly within the fashion world. Legendary designers such as Marc Jacobs centered his entire fall/winter 2017 show in February around the ’70s hip-hop generation.

The subject of diversity has always been hotly debated in fashion, and it was one of the most contested issues in fashion this past season. Whether it pertains to size, gender, or race, the call for more diversity doesn’t just stop at models, but designer talent as well. However, we are finally seeing some progress. 

A growing number of African designers are emerging as movers and shakers in the fashion industry and are helping break the perennial glass ceiling. They are rising to the top of the sartorial food chain, and as some would say — it’s about time.

We’re going to share with you five brands that all have one commonality: They’re all made by talented designers delivering African fashion on a global scale.

Aurora James, founder of Brother Vellies. (Photo: Courtesy of Brother Vellies)

Aurora James, Founder of Brother Vellies

Aurora James is the mastermind behind the beloved African-inspired shoe and accessory line Brother Vellies. It was born out of James’s inherent desire to meet two goals: first, to share her favorite African footwear style with the rest of the world — called the velskoen (pronounced “fell-skoon”), but known colloquially as vellies. Second, James’s mission was to do more to support African people than merely provide donated goods. As seen in the now ubiquitous 1:1 model initiated by brands like Toms, James explains to Yahoo Style, “To dump manufactured Chinese goods in Africa hurts their local industries; 70 percent of the manufacturing industry in Ethiopia has died out as a result of American donated goods.”

James would rather impart long-lasting jobs for African people. “There has been this perception that Africans are not capable and are forever in need of a handout,” James says. “But sometimes it’s not a handout that they need, it’s faith and opportunity.”

Today, Brother Vellies shoes are handmade throughout South Africa, Ethiopia, and Morocco — with Kenya being the locale for the company’s workshop where James welcomes artisans of any gender, background, and tribe to take part and assemble the shoes using their unique ancestral artisan skill sets. James continues to travel to Africa regularly for inspiration and to become immersed in the diverse African culture, as well as to work with the local artisans. But still, James has bigger dreams. “As I grow and scale, it’s a constant challenge to train people to keep up with things,” she says. “In a perfect world every single thread and button would be made on the continent in a really beautiful natural way.”

The brand has since gone on to win the prestigious 2015 CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund and was nominated for the CFDA Swarovski Award for Accessory Design in 2016.

Recho Omondi, founder of Omondi. (Photo: Courtesy of Omondi)

Recho Omondi, Founder of Omondi 

Recho Omondi is the founder of the line Omondi. You might recognize the young designer for her signature colorful crewneck sweaters, which have recently popped up all over your Instagram feed. They’ve been wore by fashion’s elite, including Teen Vogue EIC Elaine Welteroth, editorial director of New York magazine Stella Bugbee, and founder of Glossier Emily Weiss. The sweaters all charmingly display the wearers’ surnames hand-stitched into the fabric. But aside from the names of fashion editors, Omondi has also stitched more controversial words such as “N****s” in celebration of Black History Month. Omondi is unapologetic about the “controversy.” “It was tongue-in-cheek, and the people who understand it are buying it,” she tells Yahoo Style. “There’s something curious about a socially charged ‘curse word’ hand-sewn into pastel embroidery.”

Despite the sweaters’ widespread popularity, they are only a small portion of what the Omondi brand is all about. Growing up, Omondi split her time between Nairobi, Kenya, and parts of middle America, where she moved around between Oklahoma, Kansas, Michigan, and Illinois.

Omondi had worked stints at Calvin Klein, Suno, and Theory before launching her own brand in 2014. Her aesthetic can best be described as a junction between her Kenyan roots and NYC’s downtown cool street scene. It’s contemporary, seasonless, and non-gender-specific.

The designer is proud of her strong voice and self-assurance, which she credits to her rearing. “I was never told I couldn’t achieve things,” Omondi says. “In fact I was told the opposite — that I could do anything.” Omondi hopes to use her line to “inspire and encourage” all women, regardless of color.

Lisa Folawiyo, founder of her eponymous line. (Photo: Courtesy of Lisa Folawiyo)

Lisa Folawiyo, Founder of Lisa Folawiyo 

Lisa Folawiyo is known for her luxurious and opulent take on a West African-style print known as Ankara. Her designs possess the spirit and liveliness of African culture, but reinterpreted in a contemporary fashion through her custom-made Ankara-like prints, “texturizing [it] with embellishments whilst creating modern silhouettes.”

Folawiyo works with a team of talented artisans who help add a luxurious hand-made opulence through their intricate beadwork, which at times can take up to 240 hours to make for each garment. “We took a quintessentially African fabric and gave it a very modern, luxurious language,” Folawiyo tells Yahoo Style. However, she continues to look to Africa for inspiration, “From the Fulani (Northern Nigerian tribe) culture to childhood trips back to my father’s hometown and the Lagos Skyline, we dig deep into our roots and find various aspects of our culture that inspire and innovate.” 

Without any technical training, Folawiyo launched her line in her home after the birth of her daughter in 2005. Since then, the designer has become a major success among celebrities, such as Hollywood starlet Lupita Nyong’o as well as Beyoncé’s sister, Solange Knowles — seeing as they not only champion a wide variety of designers, but they also “are creatives who continue to celebrate fashion individualism,” says Folawiyo.  

Amaka Osakwe (far right), founder of Maki Oh. (Photo: Courtesy of Maki Oh)

Amaka Osakwe, Founder of Maki Oh

Amaka Osakwe established her brand Maki Oh in 2010 and counts former first lady Michelle Obama, Lupita Nyong’o, and Beyoncé among her fans. How did Osakwe react when she found out these extraordinary female leaders wore her line? “Excited.com.uk.org.co.za,” Osakwe tells Yahoo Style. 

During New York Fashion Week in February, Osakwe made headlines by casting all black models for her presentation, something she has done since she started her line in Lagos, Nigeria, where Osakwe is based. Her collections place a strong emphasis on identity and culture, fusing African techniques within a contemporary lens. “The aim has always been to celebrate my culture,” she says. “I definitely want to highlight the depth and finesse that lies in traditional African artistry, preserving its elegance and true beauty.” 

Her clothes are meant to function as a type of narrative. “I see them as forms of communication in the same way traditional African clothing was worn,” she elaborates. “They are pieces of a wider story about the beauty and strength of women. It’s wonderful to have had our clothing communicate with these women.” 

It was largely through Instagram that Osakwe’s brand found a firmer footing within the American market. The designer was contacted through the social media platform by Sherri McMullen, an Oakland boutique owner who helped put the designer in touch with mega e-commerce retailer Farfetch. Osakwe explains, “These types of collaborations continue to be exciting because the world keeps getting smaller. Instagram has made it so much easier and quicker to tell the world our stories. In a few DMs, we have been connected to individuals and stores around the world. I’m thrilled to see what the future holds for more connections like these.”

Akin Adebowale (far left), co-founder and CEO of Oxosi, and Kolade Adeyemo (far right), co-founder and president of Oxosi. (Photo: Courtesy of Oxosi)

Akin Adebowale and Kolade Adeyemo, Co-Founders of Oxosi

Oxosi is an e-commerce platform that bridges the gap between luxury contemporary African fashion and global visibility. Launched in 2015, it features a three-part business model: e-commerce, content, and community.

Designers such as Amaka Osakwe and Lisa Folawiyo were part of Oxosi’s first series of trunk shows. They released limited pieces online for sale with the idea of bringing native African brands to a global marketplace, with hope of generating commerce that will directly contribute to the brands as well as to the African economy.

In the case of Osakwe, Oxosi did much more than just hold a trunk show. “We partnered with Maki Oh to present her F/W17 collection during New York Fashion Week,” Adebowale tells Yahoo Style. “We made sure it was not your typical fashion presentation by adding some key Oxosi elements, such as the Oxosi Fuji Ambassadors (a traditional African band) and recreating an authentic Nigerian street scene. It was a major success and a unique opportunity to amplify Maki’s brand in tandem with ours.” 

The Oxosi founders’ goals extend much further than simply commerce. “It’s not only about selling clothes, but also about providing access to an Afromodernist perspective that has not been explored,” says Adeyemo. Adebowale adds, “We think it’s important to continue to work with our designers to showcase their talent and share their vision. The relationship with our designers is reciprocal, and we definitely want to continue to collaborate in nontraditional ways.”

With partners like Oxosi, African designers are well positioned to expand their outreach and hopefully become a much bigger part of the global fashion community.

Read more from Yahoo Style + Beauty:

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From Michael Jackson to Beyoncé: Celebs Love Tommy Hilfiger

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day. For Twitter updates, follow @YahooStyle and @YahooBeauty.

[stylevitae]

Stephanie Coker in Style Temple Source: Instagram/StephanieCoker

Stephanie Coker might have found her way into our hearts and homes by being the lovable girl next door on TV, but her collaborations with fashion label, Style Temple, has solidified her position as one of Nigeria’s fashion “it” girls.

Fashion and entertainment have always gone hand in hand. While Rihanna had the vocals and harmonies necessary to land her on the international music scene, it would be a huge disservice to the fashion industry as a whole if we deny the impact her stylish looks (starting with the ‘Rated’ era) had on her decade-old career. The same can be said for former Disney star turned Euphoria-fave, Zendaya Coleman.

Talented as she might be, Hollywood didn’t flinch until she hooked up with a renowned stylist, Law Roach, and became a fashion darling. These two entertainers from two different, yet slightly similar generations, are prime examples of the role fashion plays in career building.

If there’s one celebrity who fully understands public image vis a vis fashion, it’s actress and media personality, Stephanie Coker-Aderinokun. Starting out with a tiny vlog column on the now-canceled Basketmouth hosted variety sketch show, The Big Friday Show, Stephanie has in less than a decade earned her spot as one of TV’s leading women. From The Voice Nigeria to her daily appearances as a co-anchor on Arise TV’s daily morning show, Stephanie sits up there with the likes of Eku Edewor, Toke Makinwa, and Ebuka Obi-Uchendu.

Stephanie Coker in Style Temple Source: Instagram/StephanieCoker

Just like her other stylish colleagues, Stephanie has hacked the fame formula and realized that if they have nothing to talk about, they should at least talk about your outfit. Known for her stunning looks on and off the red carpet, Stephanie’s designer roster includes Tubo, Maju, Tokyo James and Fablane by Derin. However, one designer remains a constant fave of the star of Africa Magic’s The Island, and that label happens to be Og Okonkwo’s Style Temple.

Boasting of a clientele that includes Chioma “Good Hair”, Toke Makinwa, Ozinna Anumudu, and Ini Dima-Okojie, Style Temple has found its footing in the Nigerian fashion industry. Famous for merging clean cuts and strong color palettes with sometimes outlandish designs, Okonkwo’s label has become a fave of some of the biggest names in entertainment, with showcases at the Lagos Fashion and Design Week to its name. While Okonkwo’s ability to rock her designs effortlessly in a way similar to Lisa Folawiyo of JBL, Stephanie Coker definitely proves herself to be stiff competition.

The Stephanie and Style Temple waters run so deep that the star actually worked down the aisle in a creation from the label. If that isn’t trusting enough, then we don’t know what that is. Even though the star is known to switch up her looks regularly with different hairstyles and silhouettes, Style Temple is the only label that has been able to keep up and match her pace.

We are excited to see more looks from the two but in the meantime, check out some of our fave looks below:

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Stephanie Coker in Style Temple Source: Instagram/StephanieCoker

Stephanie Coker in Style Temple Source: Instagram/StephanieCoker

Stephanie Coker in Style Temple Source: Instagram/StephanieCoker

Stephanie Coker in Style Temple Source: Instagram/StephanieCoker

Stephanie Coker in Style Temple Source: Instagram/StephanieCoker

Stephanie Coker in Style Temple Source: Instagram/StephanieCoker

Stephanie Coker in Style Temple Source: Instagram/StephanieCoker

Stephanie Coker in Style Temple Source: Instagram/StephanieCoker

Stephanie Coker in Style Temple Source: Instagram/StephanieCoker

Stephanie Coker in Style Temple Source: Instagram/StephanieCoker

Designer & Muse: Stephanie Coker and Style Temple Always Make A Fashionable Splash Stephanie Coker might have found her way into our hearts and homes by being the lovable girl next door on TV, but her collaborations with fashion label, Style Temple, has solidified her position as one of Nigeria's fashion "it" girls.

[ezytalkz]

BellaNaija Style’s Best Dressed Celebrities of the Week: Linda Osifo, Sharon Ojong, Lisa Folawiyo, Olar Slim and More -Vote Now

BellaNaija Style’s Best Dressed Celebrities of the Week: Linda Osifo, Sharon Ojong, Lisa Folawiyo, Olar Slim and More -Vote Now

Lagos to London, Capetown to New York we’ve zigzagged the continent and the globe (via Instagram) and in no particular order, see our 10 most stylish looks of the past week. PS: Don’t forget to visit BellaNaijaStyle.com to vote for your faves!

@sharonojong

Sharon Ojong

@ceec_official

CeeC Nwadiora

@rantiinreview

Ranti Onayemi-Blanchard Lala Akindoju Beverly Naya

@leratokganyago

Lerato…

[newssplashy]

Fashion Icon: Here's why Lisa Folawiyo is the street style queen

If it's trending, trust Lisa Folawiyo to get her hands on it and style to perfection, making the sidewalk her catwalk.

When we talk about iconic Nigerian women occupying the fashion space, that conversation cannot be had without mentioning Lisa Folawiyo. The designer has become a style icon in her own right with her off-beat luxury style. Here's why Lisa Folawiyo is the street style queen.

With her signature single braids, cascading down her back, Lisa Folawiyo is effortless with her quirky, high-end style. The lauded designer who has achieved so much in her design career has also developed a personal style that is so unique and mind-blowing that she has attracted fans from all over the globe who flock to her Instagram for their style fix.

When the Dad trainer trend launched, many balked but not Lisa. Folawiyo grabbed herself a pair and showed us all the ways we could wear the tricky trend. That's why Lisa is so special, she has that innate knack of being able to tackle any trend and truly make it her own.

 ALSO READ: Stylist speaks on racial disparity in the fashion industry and navigating Nigeria's creative space

5 women that are revolutionising the fashion industry

Lisa Folawiyo

Fashion designer Lisa Folawiyo is known for her creative use of ankara and traditional African fabrics which she successfully fuses with modern tailoring and beaded embellishments to create a unique and beautiful aesthetic. Since starting her label in 2005 which was then known as 'Jewel by Lisa', Lisa has been an important leader for the Nigerian fashion industry and inspired a whole host of Nigerian designers. Lisa regularly shows at global fashion weeks and has broken down the barriers for Nigerian designers to showcase their work on an international platform.

As well as achieving international recognition for her work, Lisa has successfully elevated traditional African prints, through her intricate beading and signature embellishment, making them relevant for a global audience. She has showrooms in both Nigeria and New York and her collections are stocked worldwide.

As well as being a force in the industry, Lisa has also become a style icon in her own right having featured in Vogue and Elle. Her Instagram, which has amassed a following of 79k, is full of stylish outfit of the days and an insight into her jet-set life.

source https://www.newssplashy.com/2018/06/fashion-icon-heres-why-lisa-folawiyo-is.html

[tropicsmagazine]

#TOP10 | Lisa Folawiyo : The “@TropicsMagazine” Fashion Moguls List - www.tropics-magazine.com - 💕💕💕 #TropicsMagazine #TropicsVoices #leader #FashionMoguls #success #instagram #picoftheday #photography #nofilter #you #selfie #freedomthinkers #fashiondaily #fashiondesigners #followme #moguls #mood #quote #fashiontrends #trendy #buzzfeast #instadaily #instaquote #bold #hustle #luxurylife #styleicon #lisafolawiyo

[stylevitae]

Source: Instagram/og_styletemple

Lisa Folawiyo, Bubu Ogisi, and Adebayo Oke-Lawal. Apart from founding and running some of the most successful labels to come out of Nigeria, these three also have one thing in common – a great sense of style. For the longest time, going back to Gianni Versace’s days, designers were mostly known behind the scenes. Sure, they had wild parties and villas crowded with famous faces. However, designers rarely got famous for their personal style. Even though we had the likes of Zizi Cardow whose style was a direct reflection of her brand’s aesthetic, most designers like Deola Sagoe and Folake Folarin-Coker (Tiffany Amber, if you didn’t know) all had a more laidback style.

Fast-forward to the era of Instagram and fashion blogs where we have designers whose personal lives and style could almost rival the fame of their brands, designers are now celebrities who make weekly red carpet appearances and document their looks for loyal followers on social media.

Source: Instagram/og_styletemple

One designer who has successfully cracked the code on navigating both worlds seamlessly is Ogugua Okonkwo, the brain behind one of Nigerian’s favorite fashion labels, Style Temple. Following her break into the market in 2011, Ogugua has built a clientele consisting of celebrities like Toke Makinwa and Stephanie Coker, as well as several titans of industries and government heads. Her brand which tends to place a lot of focus on structure and detailing has become a regular fixture on blogs and red carpets, infiltrating the tough Lagos market all the way from Abuja.

Ogugua’s style is a direct representation of her brand. Just like Lisa Folawiyo and Jewel by Lisa, no one wears Style Temple as well as Ogugua. Pairing pieces from her label with accessories from high-end brands like Fendi and Christian Louboutin, Ogugua’s Instagram page could easily pass for that of an international blogger with it’s carefully curated images, and color-coordinated aesthetic.

Source: Instagram/og_styletemple

How could you have a boring wardrobe when you run a brand as inventive as Style Temple? Ogugua’s style is adventurous yet personal. No look seems contrived. From quirky looking jumpsuits to dresses that come with intricate detailing, she never disappoints. Her love for colors like white and orange are also evident when you go through her looks. Almost every outfit has a touch of these colors.

Ogugua is inspiring us to launch a label just so we could look as fly as she does. But then again, I don’t think I have the range. Take a look at some of her standout fashion moments.

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Source: Instagram/og_styletemple

Source: Instagram/og_styletemple

Source: Instagram/og_styletemple

Source: Instagram/og_styletemple

Source: Instagram/og_styletemple

Source: Instagram/og_styletemple

Source: Instagram/og_styletemple

Source: Instagram/og_styletemple

Source: Instagram/og_styletemple

Source: Instagram/og_styletemple

Source: Instagram/og_styletemple

Source: Instagram/og_styletemple

Source: Instagram/og_styletemple

Source: Instagram/og_styletemple

Source: Instagram/og_styletemple

Source: Instagram/og_styletemple

Style Temple’s Ogugua Okonkwo Has A Wardrobe That Would Make You Green With Envy Lisa Folawiyo, Bubu Ogisi, and Adebayo Oke-Lawal. Apart from founding and running some of the most successful labels to come out of Nigeria, these three also have one thing in common - a great sense of style.

[stylevitae]

History maker, trailblazer, icon, and game-changer are just some of the words that might pop up when you mention the name Agbani Darego. The brown-eyed beauty made history way back in 2001, when she bagged the Miss World title, making her the first African to lay claim to the coveted title (fun fact: Priyanka Chopra who was Miss World in 2000 crowned Agbani during the ceremony). After clinching the highest beauty pageant crown in the world, Agbani went on to rack in checks and exposure with endorsements from big names like L’Oreal Paris,  Christian Dior and Target.

Agbani Darego in Meena Source: Instagram/AgbaniDarego

Agbani Darego in Meena Source: Instagram/AgbaniDarego

Agbani Darego, Uju Ofia (Meena) and a guest Source: Instagram/MeenaOfficial

It’s hard not to talk about the history pf Nigeria without mentioning the name, Agbani Darego. Even though the former beauty queen has taken a step back from the world of modeling, with limited runway appearances for Designers like Folarin Coker who she’s friends with, her personal style has continued to grow, each look more stunning than the last.

Agbani’s style is classic and glamorous without doing too much or going over the top. She favors iconic Nigerian labels like Lisa Folawiyo Studios, Tiffany Amber and Lanre Da Silva, but has shown that she’s not scared of adding a little edge and twist, with labels like Bridget Awosika, and Uju Ofia’s Meena.

The two have maintained a fashion friendship since the label started. It can be argued that Agbani and other celebrities like Somkele Inyamah are responsible for drawing attention to Uju’s quirky and modern designs. Agbani is the perfect Meena girl. It doesn’t matter if she’s at a Miss World event or attending the AMVCAs, an Agbani + Meena combo is always sophisticated and head-turning.

Agbani Darego in Meena Source: Instagram/AgbaniDarego

Agbani Darego in Meena Source: Instagram/AgbaniDarego

Agbani Darego in Meena Source: Instagram/AgbaniDarego

Agbani Darego in Meena Source: Instagram/AgbaniDarego

Agbani Darego in Meena Source: Instagram/AgbaniDarego

Agbani Darego in Meena Source: Instagram/AgbaniDarego

Agbani Darego in Meena Source: Instagram/AgbaniDarego

Agbani Darego in Meena Source: Instagram/AgbaniDarego

Designer & Muse – Agbani Darego and Meena’s Quirky Fashion Friendship History maker, trailblazer, icon, and game-changer are just some of the words that might pop up when you mention the name Agbani Darego.

[stylevitae]

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Source: Instagram/EkuEdewor

Source: Instagram/EkuEdewor

Source: Instagram/EkuEdewor

It’s a humid day in Ikeja, Lagos and I’m resuming my first day on the set of 53 Extra, one of Nigeria’s biggest lifestyle shows. Still trying to navigate my first day as a stylist assistant, I bump into the show’s star, Eku Edewor, sitting on the floor in a corner, going to town on a plate of Ewa Agoyin and bread. This is my first introduction to the glamorous and super talented, Eku Edewor.

Over the years, Eku Edewor has worn many hats – TV host, actor, red carpet host, reality tv star (she was on the British version of Tyra Bank’s Next Top Model), beauty spokesperson and entrepreneur. But one thing that has remained consistent over the years, is her unwavering love for fashion and her eclectic style.

It would be a travesty to compile a list of the best-dressed women in Nigeria and not have Eku on the top 5. Her modelesque frame has made it easy for Eku to slip into sample size pieces right off the runway, making her a designers dream. Even designers like Tsemaye Binite and Tiffany Amber who are very particular about the celebrities they dress, can’t say no to Eku Edewor. Why you might ask? Well, it’s easy, google Eku’s name and come back if you found one picture where she didn’t pull off an outfit.

While Eku has been spotted in all the big names in fashion, one of her biggest loves remains, Lisa Folawiyo’s Jewel by Lisa. The two have struck a fashion friendship that has lasted over the years, starting from Eku’s first days as a co-host on 53 Extra. Looking at all the looks both parties have created over the years with Eku as a constant muse, I won’t be surprised if Eku’s Jewel By Lisa collection rivals Lisa’s personal collection someday.

Eku’s MO which revolves around not shying away from bold colors, prints, and quirky cuts, was even picked up by Vogue. These fashion traits are in line with what Jewel by Lisa has done since it started out from the trunk of Lisa Folawiyo’s car.

“No one wears Jewel by Lisa like Lisa”, while this saying is true, Eku Edewor is undoubtedly a close second.

Here are some of our favorite Eku x Jewel by Lisa style moments.

#gallery-0-10 { margin: auto; } #gallery-0-10 .gallery-item { float: left; margin-top: 10px; text-align: center; width: 33%; } #gallery-0-10 img { border: 2px solid #cfcfcf; } #gallery-0-10 .gallery-caption { margin-left: 0; } /* see gallery_shortcode() in wp-includes/media.php */

Source: Instagram/EkuEdewor

Source: Instagram/EkuEdewor

Eku in Mania Magazine Source: Instagram/EkuEdewor

Eku with her twin sister Kessiana for Genevieve Magazine Source: Instagram/EkuEdewor

Source: Instagram/EkuEdewor

Eku and her twin sister Kessiana for Hello Nigeria Source: Instagram/EkuEdewor

Eku co-hosting the 2014 Channel O Music Awards Source: Instagram/EkuEdewor

Eku at a fitting with Lisa Folawiyo Source: Instagram/EkuEdewor

Source: Instagram/EkuEdewor

Source: Instagram/EkuEdewor

Source: Instagram/EkuEdewor

Designer & Muse – Eku Edewor and Jewel by Lisa are a Fashion Couple Made in Heaven It's a humid day in Ikeja, Lagos and I'm resuming my first day on the set of 53 Extra, one of Nigeria's biggest lifestyle shows.

[stylevitae]

Source: Instagram/@og_offodile

Finding your personal style and voice when ut comes to fashion, can be a very daunting task. I mean, once upon a time, we relied on the pages of magazines like Vogue and In-Style, to tell us what to wear, but now we have trends popping up on a daily thanks to apps like Instagram, Youtube, and Pinterest, which seems to be crawling with “fashion influencers”. However, when you really know your onions, everything else seems like a breeze – Even when it comes to styling looks from two incredibly different designers like the Okunoren twins and Jacquemus.

Ogo Offodile, the engineer and tech expert turned stylist, fashion week front-row fixture and fashion influencer, is a prime example of what it means to fully understand fashion in such a way that every look leaves an indelible impression, without having to try too hard.

Source: Instagram/@og_offodile

  Having been featured in magazines like Vogue, Marie Claire and Harper’s Bazaar among others, the Nigerian born stylista has successfully secured a seat at the fashion table and she’s not getting up anytime soon.

Haider Ackerman, Erdem, Chanel, Valentino, Miu Miu, and Altuzarra are a few of the designers we’ve spotted Ogo in. But this doesn’t mean she’s averse to Nigerian designers as she was recently spotted in Tiffany Amber, and spoke to Vogue.com in 2016, about her love for Lisa Folawiyo.

Source: Instagram/@og_offodile

Ogo’s style is bold and in control. Her love for daring and unconventional styles and cuts is evident on her Instagram page. She tends to favor designs that are far from the regular and push her to stand out. This effortlessly dominant style earned her the title of Girl Boss according to Refinery29.

Here are some of Ogo’s best looks according to us at SV. Because the truth is, if Solange likes your style, then you’re definitely doing something right.

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Source: Instagram/@og_offodile

Source: Instagram/@og_offodile

Source: Instagram/@og_offodile

Source: Instagram/@og_offodile

Source: Instagram/@og_offodile

Source: Instagram/@og_offodile

Source: Instagram/@og_offodile

Source: Instagram/@og_offodile

  Ogo Offodille is the Fearless Style Queen of Unconventional Prints, Cuts & Shapes Finding your personal style and voice when ut comes to fashion, can be a very daunting task.

[ezytalkz]

Best Dressed Of The Week, Week Of April 14th: Who Killed It In The Style Stakes?

Best Dressed Of The Week, Week Of April 14th: Who Killed It In The Style Stakes?

Lagos to London, Capetown to Accra we’ve zigzagged the continent and the globe (via Instagram) and in no particular order, see our 10 most stylish looks of the past week. PS: Don’t forget to vote for your faves in the poll below!

@powedeawujo Powede Awujo @titispassion Titilola Sogunro @nimsdefabulouss Nimi Nwofor @lisafolawiyo Lisa Folawiyo @onyiibekeh Onyii Bekeh @taymesan_ Taymesan @mosesebite

[ezytalkz]

Best Dressed Of The Week, Week Of March 24th: Who Killed It In The Style Stakes?

Best Dressed Of The Week, Week Of March 24th: Who Killed It In The Style Stakes?

Lagos to London, Capetown to New York we’ve zigzagged the continent and the globe (via Instagram) and in no particular order, see our 10 most stylish looks of the past week. PS: Don’t forget to vote for your faves in the poll below!

@stephaniecoker Stephanie Coker Aderinokun @chicama Chic Ama @sai.sankoh Sai Sankoh @lisafolawiyo Lisa Folawiyo @efetommyoflife Efe Tommy  @inidimaokojie Ini…

[stylevitae]

Simple Palesa's Shoegarsmic Instagram Feed Has All Your Feet Needs!

NEW POST: Simple Palesa's Shoegarsmic Instagram Feed Has All Your Feet Needs!

Instagram is where it all happens. By IT, I mean style inspiration, trendy fashion and virtual style obsession. Added to my ever increasing list of style crushes, with Lisa Folawiyo, Natalia Shustova, Miroslava Duma, Julia Sarr Jamois, Christine Centenera as pioneers on the list, is none other than Palesa Mahlaba.  (more…)