In the world of fashion, inspiration can stem from a myriad of sources. For me, my inspiration begins at home.
Growing up in the early 2000’s meant family time was a regular constant reality. My family and I surprisingly shared many common interests at the time despite our individual niche interests and personalities. It didn’t matter if you were 6 years of age or 30- we were all going to sit down and watch a historical documentary about Tutankhamun, Master Chef or Tyra’s America’s Next Top Model after a nice dinner. It was all so memorable.
So, you see, not only did I love history, art, fashion and media- my parents loved it too (in their own separate ways). Individually, each parent left a strong long lasting impression on every strong interests I currently have. Today’s spotlight will fall on my mother.
My mommy grew up watching a lot of the silver screens and Technicolor classics (naturally) it wasn’t old Hollywood then just Hollywood. My father may have had a huge collection of great music, she on the other hand had a huge collection of all the classics- The Sound of Music (went triple platinum in my home country that one time), The Wizard of Oz (Cannot imagine the number of times she replayed this for us), Seven Brides for Seven Brothers and many more. It did not take long for the fascination to take hold, particularly the one of the glitz and glamour of the golden age of film and fashion.
Think Audrey’s timeless elegance in "Breakfast at Tiffany's" or Marilyn’s captivating allure in "Some like it Hot." These Hollywood icons exuded sophistication and glamour, setting the standard for the fashion excellence I believe should still be upheld today. Their iconic looks, characterized by tailored silhouettes, statement accessories, and effortless charm, continue to resonate with me till this day.
But the influence of old Hollywood glamour doesn't stop there. Modern-day fashion icons like Rihanna have seamlessly blended the essence of the golden age with contemporary trends, creating a fusion that's both nostalgic and avant-garde. It may seem contradictory at first, but her daring style choices and unwavering confidence mirror the trailblazing spirit of her predecessors - think Marilyn’s ‘naked dress’ and Rihanna’s sheer Swarovski gown, or Rihanna’s current love for pulling vintage archives- proving that classic elegance knows no bounds.
From the runway to the streets, trends are constantly evolving, but I believe there's just something timeless about drawing inspiration from the glamour of the yesteryears. Coincidentally, the yesteryears had not faded away within the realms of my home country- Nigeria. Another noteworthy source of inspiration and influence. The women in these parts do not believe in anything less than showing up as a perfect ten. You put your best foot forward always or in our case your best shoe forward. There is a strong belief and saying that most Nigerians adhere to- do not look like your problems.
It would be considered quite insulting to the host to show up dressed down to an event; we take our “glam” quite seriously, way before Keeping Up with the Kardashians was ever a thing. This cultural phenomenon has deep roots, dating back to pre-colonial times when textiles symbolized cultural identity and social status. Fabrics such as the vibrant Ankara, luxurious Aso-oke, and the striking Àdìrẹ have been passed down through generations, each pattern and design carrying its own symbolism and history. These fabrics were not only worn for special occasions but also served as markers of social status and belonging within the community. In other words, this lifestyle isn’t new to us.
Although, this rich tradition of dressing has evolved overtime- influenced by colonialism, global fashion trends, media, and the growing (now dwindling) middle class. The older generation of women still play a crucial role in preserving and upholding these sartorial customs, serving as guardians of tradition and custodians of cultural knowledge. They impart their wisdom by guiding younger Nigerian women on fashion etiquette, proper attire for various occasions, and the significance of certain garments.
Today, modern Nigerian women seamlessly blend timeless traditional and modern elements in their attire, creating striking and mostly custom-made ensembles that reflect their individuality and cultural pride. A skill and direction I myself have decided to utilize and follow within my brand.
However, it wasn't just the silver screen or my country women that influenced my sense of style. My own mother played a pivotal role in shaping my perspective on fashion. I fondly recall how she would and still does meticulously put together her outfits, even if it was just for a quiet evening or a full uneventful day at home. Her love for fancy dressing, even in the comfort of our living room, taught me the power and importance of being and feeling your absolute best even if you were the only one in the world to witness it.
These are my Icons. As I curate each collection, I find myself weaving together elements from my own journey- the classic sophistication of all the glamorous women from the golden age, the audaciousness of Rihanna, the perpetual flamboyancy of the Nigerian women and the cherished memories of my mother's stylish escapades at home. It's a celebration of personal style, one that honours the past while embracing the present and future.
I greatly believe that style isn't just about following trends but about embracing the essence of who you are. Whether it's a flowing gown inspired by Grace Kelly or a bold ensemble reminiscent of Rihanna's street style, remember that true style is a reflection of who you are, where you’ve been and even where you’re destined to go. Find your true style, embrace your unique identity and express it with confidence.
So, as you explore through our latest collection, take a moment to reflect on the iconic figures and cherished memories that have shaped your own personal style journey. And with each carefully crafted piece, I hope to empower you to write your own fashion story- one that's as unique and captivating as the icons and experiences that inspire us all.