The Nation Newspaper

Category: Fashion

  • Refine your wrist

    Refine your wrist

    By Yetunde Oladeinde

     

    Your accessories say a lot about who you are. One accessory that ladies love to have and keep is the bracelet. They come in a variety of designs and types.

    Your mood and event will determine what to wear and how to combine with your outfit.

    If you are attending a formal event and you want to look classy but simple, then the simple chain bracelet is a great idea.

    A silver, gold or bronze design also puts the wearer in a unique class any day. You may also prefer the type that has a combination of silver, gold and bronze which always has that sophisticated edge.

    Other options include bracelets made with precious stones like crystals, rubies and diamonds. Alternatively, you can go for designs made with fabric, leather or metal. They actually fall into the category of bold bracelets and you can be sure to be noticed, everywhere you go.

    For fabrics, the options are many and quite interesting. Our designers have churned out a variety of bracelets made from African prints, aso oke, kente and other fabrics that are unique.

  • 2021 collections: Ademola’s modern twist on Senegalese classic

    2021 collections: Ademola’s modern twist on Senegalese classic

    In the ever-evolving world of fashion, where creativity is boundless, some designers have a unique talent for taking timeless traditions and infusing them with contemporary allure. One such visionary is Ademola, whose latest masterpiece, the “Boubou Brilliance” collection, is a testament to the enduring elegance of Senegalese culture, reimagined with a modern twist. The boubou, a traditional Senegalese garment known for its flowing silhouette and graceful lines, has deep roots in Senegalese heritage. It has been a symbol of cultural pride and identity for generations, cherished for its simplicity and grace. However, Ademola has embarked on a journey to breathe new life into this classic attire, and the result is nothing short of brilliance.

    The “Boubou Brilliance” collection showcases boubous with a contemporary flair, blending bold prints, sleek lines, and innovative draping techniques. Each piece in this collection pays homage to Senegalese tradition while embracing the aesthetics of modern fashion. It is a delicate balance between the past and the present, where heritage meets innovation.

    What sets this collection apart is Ademola’s commitment to more than just fashion; it is about empowerment and cultural preservation. The designer collaborates closely with Senegalese artisans, ensuring that the craftsmanship and cultural significance of the boubou are not only preserved but celebrated. This collection is not just about clothing; it is a bridge between Senegalese heritage and global style, exemplifying how African fashion is a blend of tradition and innovation.

    As Ademola Arewa introduces the “Boubou Brilliance” collection to fashion capitals around the world, they are not merely presenting beautiful garments; they are showcasing the enduring allure of African fashion. This collection transcends borders and cultures, serving as a reminder that fashion can be a universal language that connects people through shared values and appreciation for heritage.The global reception of the “Boubou Brilliance” collection has been nothing short of phenomenal. Fashion enthusiasts, industry experts, and cultural aficionados have all been captivated by the collection’s fusion of tradition and modernity. It has graced runways in prestigious fashion hubs, garnering attention, and admiration for its unique approach to preserving Senegalese culture while making it relevant in the contemporary fashion landscape.

    Beyond the spotlight, the “Boubou Brilliance” collection has found its way into the wardrobes of individuals who understand the significance of tradition in a rapidly changing world. It has become a symbol of cultural pride, an embodiment of the idea that fashion can serve as a bridge between generations, connecting the past with the present and the future.

    In conclusion, Ademola Arewa has achieved something extraordinary with the “Boubou Brilliance” collection. It is a testament to the power of fashion to celebrate tradition and innovation simultaneously. This collection is more than clothing; it is a representation of Senegalese heritage and an example of how fashion can transcend boundaries. As it continues to gain recognition around the world, it reinforces the idea that preserving cultural identity while embracing change is a timeless and beautiful endeavour.

    Dashiki Dreams: Ademola Arewa Unleashes the ‘African Soul’ Collection

    In the ever-evolving world of fashion, there are moments when a designer’s creativity transcends mere clothing and becomes a statement of cultural pride and unity. Ademola Arewa, a visionary African designer, has achieved just that with their ‘African Soul’ Dashiki Collection. In a burst of vibrant colours and cultural expression, this collection captures the very essence of Africa’s heartbeat, paying a glorious tribute to the iconic Dashiki, a symbol of African heritage and identity.

    The ‘African Soul’ collection is a masterpiece, a fusion of tradition and modernity, heritage, and innovation. Each Dashiki in this collection is infused with bold patterns, vivid hues, and intricate detailing, skillfully blending traditional elements with modern aesthetics. The result is a harmonious fusion of style that resonates with fashion enthusiasts across the globe.

    What truly sets this collection apart is its celebration of African unity. In a world where borders can sometimes divide us, the ‘African Soul’ Dashiki Collection is a visual reminder of the ties that bind us as a continent. Each Dashiki design reflects the diversity of Africa, incorporating motifs and inspirations from various regions and cultures. It is a celebration of Africa’s rich tapestry of traditions, languages, and histories.

    As the ‘African Soul’ Dashiki Collection embarks on its global journey, it stands as a testament to the timeless beauty of African fashion. It transcends borders and cultures, proving that the Dashiki is more than just a garment; it is a powerful symbol of African identity.The Dashiki, with deep roots in West African culture, has long been worn as a symbol of heritage and pride. Over the years, it has evolved into a versatile and cherished garment, known for its bold patterns and comfortable fit. However, it was Ademola who took it to the next level, infusing it with a fresh perspective that simultaneously honours its heritage and propels it into the future.

    With the ‘African Soul’ Dashiki Collection, Ademola invites us to embrace African culture as a universal symbol of unity and appreciation. Each Dashiki embodies Africa’s diverse cultures, from the intricate beadwork of the Maasai to the vibrant prints of West Africa. It’s a collection that tells a story, a story of a continent rich in tradition, innovation, and resilience.

    The global reception of the ‘African Soul’ Dashiki Collection has been nothing short of extraordinary. Fashion enthusiasts, celebrities, and cultural connoisseurs have all been drawn to the collection’s vibrancy and message.

    It has become a symbol of cultural appreciation, a testament to the idea that fashion can be a bridge between different worlds, connecting people through shared values and aesthetics.

    In conclusion, Ademola Arewa has achieved something remarkable with the ‘African Soul’ Dashiki Collection. It is more than just a fashion line; it is a celebration of African culture, unity, and identity. This collection has breathed new life into the Dashiki, transforming it from a cultural garment into a global symbol of pride and appreciation. As it continues to travel the globe, it reminds us that fashion can transcend borders, and the soul of Africa is alive and thriving in every stitch, pattern, and colour of the Dashiki.

  • Heads that drill

    Heads that drill

    By Yetunde Oladeinde

     

    Should you like to be noticed in any crowd? The fact of the matter is that face and the head is where you make the first impression. It is therefore good to think of ways to highlight your advantage in these areas.

    That explains why hairdos, make-up and other accessories get so much attention. One creative way to complement your look is by wearing a head wrap or headgear that is stylish.

    This usually takes the wearer from the ordinary to looking super gorgeous. A single, double or multi colour helps you to create that dramatic look. The effects and the drama you want to create determine the fabric type.

    You can therefore go for soft and smaller wraps if you want a simple outlook. However, if you want a super knot, you would definitely need something bigger and bolder. A simple scarf, net, turban and other wraps make great fashion statements when tied stylishly.

  • Timeless boubou styles

    Timeless boubou styles

    By Yetunde Oladeinde

     

    Long flowing gowns are timeless. You can wear them for almost every formal or informal event. For that super outing, you can settle for a nice boubou in red, white or a combination of these colours depending on your choice.

    Interestingly, the Boubou styles are one of the most comfortable and elegant dresses that women in Africa and all over the world treasure in the closet.

    The style has evolved in different ways, yet it always remains relevant and stylish. The crux of the matter is that every woman wants to wear clothes that are elegant as well as provide maximum comfort.

    One other advantage of the boubou is that it is suitable for ladies and women of all sizes. It actually helps to hides all shortcomings of your figure.

  • Make it metallic

    Make it metallic

    By Atanda SHERIFF

     

    It is Valentine’s Day tomorrow. There is a lot of excitement in the air. A time traditionally known for outfits in red and white.

    However, you will notice that the trend is shifting for many.  Instead, you find them going for outfits in metallic shades that dazzle. This can be found in the tops,  dresses or trousers and more. Others simply made use of the metallic for their shoes, bags, belts, jackets and other accessories.

    If you are excited by the effect created by the metallic shade, you can join the train and make bold statements your way.

     

    •  Ini-Dima Okojie

    Ini-Dima looks quite appealing in this red and white top and trouser. In the background

    is a signature red designer purse that speaks class. She also displays a brown raffia bag

    with her name boldly written on it.

     

    • Bukola Adeeyo

    Bukola dazzles in this silver shimmering gown. The effect of the studs, metallic shoes and smart outlook make her really exciting to behold.

     

    • Kim Oprah

    Shimmering and stylish. This simple shirt and trouser combination speaks volume .

     

    • Ruky Sanda

    Black is beautiful. This simple black dress makes Ruky a delight.

     

     

    • DJ Cuppy

    Her pink hairdo is the trademark. She also looks cool in this brown top, trouser and jacket.

    • Nkechi Blessing

    Regal. She rocks in this silver and deep peach top and trouser. It certainly sits well on her silver and black high heeled shoes.

    • Shaffy Bello

    Shaffy steps out looking glamorous in this simple top and pant. The unique part of her combination is his flowing Kimono top also in black but with Ankara patches and trimmings.

    • Mo Cheddah

    Cute! That is what comes to mind as you admire the singer in this black tee shirt and sexy brown shorts. Her sandals are magnetic clinging nicely to her beautiful skin in style.

  • KEMI LUMOUS: Mum inspired my life as a fabric designer

    KEMI LUMOUS: Mum inspired my life as a fabric designer

    Kemi Lumous is an entrepreneur, fabric designer and the co-founder of KB Fabrics in Lagos. In this encounter with Yetunde Oladeinde, she opens up on  her journey into the world of fabrics, inspiration and more.

    How did your journey into the fabric business began?

    My mother who deals in fabrics had a fabric store in Lagos. While studying at the University my sister and I saw her excel in the business.

    In fact, during the holiday seasons, we helped our mum deliver fabrics to clients. So, I have an idea of how the business is done. I don’t sew clothes for people but design fabric. So, we started KB Fabrics in 2014 when I lost my mother and my sister lost her husband  earlier that same year . After her death, Bisola and I felt the need to continue her legacy. So, we decided to rebrand and that gave birth to KB Fabrics.

    In addition,  I’ve always loved fashion. Looking good they say is good business. I love to play with colours but I try to make it sophisticated.

    What were the initial challenges you encountered and how were you able to surmount them?

    At the initial stage, we had the issue of overbuying because we were buying more than the quantity we needed. Also, getting our brand out there wasn’t so easy but we managed to surpass it. We went for one exhibition in Paris and we were told that if we have to buy a particular design, we had to buy in certain yardage. So, we bought way more. Later, we learnt our lessons and reduced the quantity we buy. When we started, we only had female fabrics but today, we deal in male fabrics as well. We design fabrics for both male and female. While starting out, we faced the challenge of convincing people to patronise us but through social media, we were able to push out business to the necessary customers. We sell everyday fabrics.

    Who are your clients?

    My clients are mostly from the age of 35 upwards. Anybody we craves for quality fabrics and love to look elegant can patronise us. Sometimes, people seek out advice on what to wear for different events and we help.

    What were you doing before the fabric business?

    I was working at a property firm while my sister worked for a finance company.

    What was the turning point for you?

    The turning point in my life was when I lost my mother and  my sister lost her husband. From those events, we thought of turning the business around and planned to raise our kids together. Also, my brother’s wedding was around the corner. So, we did  Asoebi (party uniform) thing and before we knew it, we got other jobs. We started getting referrals and the rest is history. Those events shaped my life, made me see that there is light at the end of the tunnel and made me become a better version of myself.

    How has the journey been so far?

    It’s been a wonderful experience. Though, we had our highs and low seasons but it has been an exciting journey. We had the high when there are  weddings, birthday parties, Easters, Valentines and other events. We had our lows in January when you had to pay children’s school fees. During the pandemic last year, it was really hard but my sister who was in London with her son at the time and I thought outside the box. We noticed people were not traveling much due to Covid-19 lockdown. We thought of doing a side business and started a shopping business whereby we shop for people and deliver to Nigeria. My sister buys those stuffs in London, cargo it to Nigeria, I go receive the cargo and distribute to clients we requested for them. We were making some money from the business and that helped us during that period. People were not really patronising our fabric business because people were not holding parties because of the lockdown. When the ban was lifted, people started having parties and we started making some sales. The shopping business is by the side. It has been a sweet journey but not without hurdles.

    Where do you get your design inspiration from?

    We get inspiration from our mum’s designs and add other designs to make it stand out. We also get inspiration from our manufacturers, colours, wall paper, environment and fashion shows.

    What wouldn’t you do in the name of fashion?

    I won’t follow some certain trends. I think sometimes people need to dress according to how they feel. Fashion is expressing yourself anyway you want to. Sometimes you don’t have to break the bank to look good. Knowing how to combine colours is essential and that will make you be the cynosure of eyes when you step out for events. Simple but classy does it for me. To me, less is more.

    What do you consider when designing for people?

    I consider colours and texture. Some people like soft fabric that won’t freak the body. Men like subtle and nice designs. They don’t like loud colours while women like to add sparkle to their look like adding sequins and other embellishments on their cloth. At the end of the day everything boils down to preference.

    Who are your role models in the fashion world?

    I like Lisa Folawiyo especially what she does with the Ankara fabric. Her pieces are beautiful. You see a dress or skirt and you will know it’s made by her. Her outfits are well detailed. Outside the country, I like Vera Wang and Vale ntino. They are great fashion designers that makes bespoke outfits.

    Can you share your memorable moments with us?

    I think it was  when we had a customer cum friend. She was having a party and we were supposed to do Asoebi for her.  She wanted Ankara for 100 people. We got the Ankara. The first 100 was sold out. We bought another one again. In fact, it was so funny to the point that the first colour had finished. So, they had to pick another colour. At that party, we had two different Ankara and they came out beautiful. From that particular event, we got so many referrals.  I feel happy when people call or message to inform me that the fabric I sold is nice. It pushes me to do more.

    Who are your mentors?

    It’s definitely my uncle (Mr. Sarumi). He has been a great and positive influence in my life, in the life of my sister and our family as a whole. He checks up on us, cares and offers fatherly advice. With him, I came to realise that supporting someone doesn’t have to be money but sparing your time is more valuable. Whenever we need him, he creates that time to support in whatever we need him to do. He inspires us greatly.

    What valuable lessons has life thought you?

    I’ve learnt that there’s no shortcut to success. You have to be consistent. You also have to be intentional and focused. I’ve learnt not to compare myself with anybody. I don’t compare myself to people but try to focus, master my craft and improve on myself. I love what I do and know that it will pay off at the end of the day. Putting God first is very key. I’m a woman of faith and that has helped shaped my life and made me stronger.

    Where do you hope to be few years from now?

    I want to go international. I don’t want to cater for Nigerian market alone but other countries. I hope to have a manufacturing company and taking KB Fabrics to greater heights. I also hope to go into making tailored outfits for men.

    What is your advice to those who would like to go into your line of business?

    You must have passion for it and start small. Don’t rush things but take it one step at a time. You have to study the market and get a mentor who is into this kind of business to put you through. Also, you have to stay humble. Don’t run faster than your shadow. Slow down and learn the robes. It may not be easy at first but don’t give up, keep doing it tenaciously and you will breakthrough.

  • Oluremi Akintola: How I became a traditional wedding compere

    Oluremi Akintola: How I became a traditional wedding compere

    Oluremi Akintola-Samuel, CEO of Strictly Weddings Academy, has trained over 100 women within Nigeria and across the globe. In this encounter with Atanda Sheriff, she speaks about her experiences as a traditional wedding compere industry.

    What inspired your passion to go into the traditional wedding compere industry?

    First, I would say my mom, because that’s what she also does. I was always going with to events and I saw the several needs in the industry. By the time, I joined the industry it was dominated by older women and a few men. I noticed that the younger people didn’t have a representation in the traditional wedding compere industry and  when I saw that need, I said to myself if this is what I love doing I can create a need for the younger generation . That was how I got myself into the industry. I got trained by my mom, in the art of public speaking, the art and business of engagement compering . In addition,  I got myself mentors who put me through  because at that point my mom was just doing it  as a hobby. She was working as a school teacher and compering traditional weddings as a side business.  I came into the industry to do it full time and create a space and opportunity for younger people in the industry, and over the years I can say it’s been worthwhile.

    How long have you been in the business?

    I have been in the business since my mom’s womb, lol. Like I said earlier on, my mom has been in the industry for a long time. I got trained for a while. At some point in 2001 my mom started giving me jobs to do. My mum then gave me the opportunity of getting my own business cards because when I go for events a lot of people were always asking for my number. I remember the first event I went for at that time I was working for an NGO and it was my company’s card that was given to them.  I will say that I started in 2003.

    What are the challenges you have faced since venturing into the business?

    Back in the days people prefer the engagements but now one of the challenges we face is that people are trying to phase out our tradition and culture. Our culture is fading out fast and if we don’t do something about it, we would  discover that in some years to come, some children would not even know anything about their culture and that’s a major challenge. It is sad that people do not regard our culture. The challenges we face includes timing. Sometimes people will tell you engagement starts for 7am, you get to the venue by 7am and family members are not even there until 10am.

    When people go to the registry and they delay them they wont complain but when its traditional engagement scheduled for minutes they are already hurrying.  Sometimes clients expect the whole engagement ceremony to be conducted under 15 minutes. When Muslim clerics are conducting the Nikai, they use 3 hours and sometimes 4 hours and nobody complains or goes after them. Some church weddings also last for up to 4 hours and nobody complains about it because they know the pastor is doing his job and knows what to do. However, most people believe as an Alaga you don’t know what you’re doing so they start complaining that you are wasting their time. People see our culture and traditional values as a waste of time.

    It’s unfortunate that some people outside the country value our culture more than we do. Another challenge is issues in family, things like sibling rivalry, abuse from a relative get in the way of the work of Alaga because the children may not know how to go about it at the engagement ceremony so they hold the Alaga responsible for a problem that was not created by the Alaga. Sometimes we see emotions flying around, some brides will tell you I don’t want to have anything to do with my father, I don’t want to take pictures with my father and as the Alaga you’re saddled with the responsibility of handling that chaotic situation. The question is how are you going to take pictures on your wedding day and not take pictures with your father. Sometimes, some people will tell you, ” I don’t want to have anything to do with my mother” , and you are the one that will cover up all those things. Unfortunately, some people that don’t know about what is happening in the families will tell you that you are not doing your job, you are not doing this, you are not doing that. It’s usually a major challenge especially now that our job requires emotional intelligence. If you are not intelligent enough to know that things are happening you won’t even know emotions are flying around and you would just be wondering why is this person behaving in a hostile way.

     One of the major challenges we face in the industry is managing family conflicts. Have you fulfilled your dream of raising women to become leaders in the industry?

    To the glory of God I have raised over a 100 women in the engagement industry. I started with training few women at a time in groups of doing 5, 10 and in some cases 20 in a year. I have been able to raise successful women in the engagement compere industry by the grace of God and I am still raising, in fact I have a major training coming up in January 2021 for traditional wedding comperes for people who want to brush up, because there are some people who have been in industry for a while and just need to learn how to upgrade themselves in one or two areas.  I have been able to raise leader labels in the traditional compere industry.

    The Strictly Weddings Academy trainings have been able to raise women who are leading in the engagement compere industry, and we have a training coming up the in January 2021 in Lagos.

  • Ademola’s TOP TEN

    Ademola’s TOP TEN

    Ademola O Ogundana aka Hardvantage is one of Nigeria’s leading MCs and event hosts who has locked down a couple of top events like the Joor concert by DJ Kaywise, Lagos Countdown and a host of others. He shares his ten favorite things with Adeniyi Adewoyin

     

    Favourite wristwatch

    Bvlgari products

     

    Favourite perfume

    CREED

     

    Favourite fashion designer 

    Tsquare and St. Hafeez (H-08)

     

    Favourite food

    Yam and spiced egg

     

    Favourite bags

    Louis Vuitton

     

    Favourite sunglasses

    RayBan

     

    Favourite travel destination

    Bora Bora

     

    Favourite sport

    Football

     

    Favourite drinks

    Something light

     

    Favourite car

    Vintage / Sport car

  • AMANDA AKUNNE: Modelling for Fashion TV was awesome

    AMANDA AKUNNE: Modelling for Fashion TV was awesome

    Amanda Akunne is a model, beauty queen and the current Miss Aura International. In this interview with Yetunde Oladeinde, she opens up on her experiences, memorable encounters, inspiration, travelling around the world as well as having her mum as her manager.

     

    HOW did you emerge as the queen?

    Let me say that among all the 50 delegates from Nigeria, I was picked to represent Nigeria in Turkey. You had different people submitting their details to apply for the pageant.

    That was the COVID year, was it easy preparing for a pageant during the period?

    I was prepared for it a year before that year. It was actually supposed to hold much earlier in April and then July. They kept shifting it.

    How were you feeling with the postponement?

    I was sad. I didn’t know if it will still hold because I have never had any opportunity to go for an international pageant before. Then I had my second experience and it was a very huge and I was super glad to be picked for it. When they started postponing it was as if this would let me down.

    Just before this I had another international pageant which was in February in India. I was also Miss Talent there. It was when I got back that the whole lockdown started. I tried my best to reach out to people out there. People who didn’t have resources for things like hand sanitizers, face masks and food. I was able to reach out to People and assist them which was quite fulfilling.

    The two pageants that you participated in were international pageants; COVID was out there, were you scared at all?

    I recall that before I went to India the whole thing had not started at all. So, there was no fear at all. When I came back there was a lockdown and I had never experienced a lockdown in my life. I was nervous, don’t tell me that the world is about to end. You heard people dying here and there. It was happening more outside the country and I was really pretty scared. Even some of the stories were scary, that it came China, Asia and all that. I was scared but I told myself, Amanda you are not going to get this virus. My belief also was that one day we will actually find the cure.

    What do you think gave you the edge over the others?

    My first pageant was an African pageant, Miss African Golden and I emerged winner in 2019. I was really determined to go for that. Instead of going for Nigerian pageant, I wanted something bigger and better. I also wanted to mingle with other African countries. It was a very great experience and when I went into that. Then I took another step and went for Miss Super Model Glow. It was quite challenging because it was my first international pageant but I was able to achieve what I set out for. I was able to represent Nigeria, not just that. I was able to make Nigeria proud.

    One thing that comes to mind is that anytime you travel out, you feel down because of the stories you hear about us.

    So, every time I keep telling them about the good part of Nigeria and they usually want to hear more. I also like to inspire other girls out there and give them advice on how to discover their skills and talents. I also tell them from experience that whatever happens in a competition, never give up. Even if you do not win, stay focused.

    That is what I always tell the girls. Interestingly, I came late to my second pageant because of flight delay. At that point, our border had not been opened and I was just praying. I almost lost it. You know, we had to do the COVID test before you travel and I didn’t even know where to do the test at first. So, I had to travel to Abuja and I did the first COVID test. They said it was late and I had to do it the day before I travel, then I had to do it again. All I wanted at that point was to travel and a very great experience and when I went into that. Then I took another step and went for Miss Super Model Glow. It was quite challenging because it was my first international pageant but I was able to achieve what I set out for. I was able to represent Nigeria, not just that. I was able to make Nigeria proud.

    That is what I always tell the girls. Interestingly, I came late to my second pageant because of flight delay. At that point, our border had not been opened and I was just praying. I almost lost it. You know, we had to do the COVID test before you travel and I didn’t even know where to do the test at first. So, I had to travel to Abuja and I did the first COVID test. They said it was late and I had to do it the day before I travel, then I had to do it again. All I wanted at that point was to travel and compete. So, I was able to travel to Turkey. This time around I traveled alone because my mum couldn’t make it there.

    What does it mean having your mum as your manager?

    When your mum is your backbone, you will actually succeed. It’s quite a pleasure for me.She has been so supportive from day one.  I started participating in pageants from school.  I went to Chelsea Primary school and then went onto Navy Secondary school.

    Is your father in the Navy?

    No! But my mum wanted me to join the Navy because when you are in the military, there is some respect. One thing I like is the neatness and the white uniform. Its really attractive and I kept admiring them as a young girl. The cadet is so amazing,  it was fun and my mum felt it will be powerful if a woman is in the military. Apart from that we are all girls in the family, four girls.

    What are your memories of school days?

    I had to cut my hair which was the rule and it actually took me days and weeks thinking about it. It was the first time I will ever cut my hair, right from childhood. When we go for competitions, the other girls did their hair. Everyone was always looking gorgeous with different hairstyles but we had no hair.

    What made you stand out?

    We were African queens.  In addition, people always loved our uniforms. We were actually always winning our competitions, either first or second position. The Navy School is filled with intelligent people and I am proud that I am from that school.

    Where did you go after Navy school?

    I went to Afe Babalola University and studied International Relations.  It was the first time I was going far away from home. My mum was worried,  she couldn’t even come to my matriculation.  I was sad initially but I just had to do my own thing.

    What are some of the things that you share in common with your mum?

    My Secrets! It’s with mum and never goes out. Also my relationships and people always say that we look alike.

    What plans for the future? Are you thinking of being a female president someday?

    Yes. You read my mind. I always see myself as a leader. And sometimes, I see myself as someone who   wants to help the Nation.  I want us to be on top. I want us to be great and powerful.  I also realise that anytime I am out there people always look up to mme.I mentor mostly young girls, they usually ask a number of questions that inspires me.

     Tell us about some of the memorable moments?

    After the pageant, I got a contract on Fashion TV, Turkey and I was modelling for them. They also have a pageant called Miss Fashion TV and they are inviting me to another pageant soon. Hopefully, I will make Nigeria Proud again. While I was working with them, we had a house where I stayed with other models to learn more and associate with other girls. There were so many lessons to learn and it was a real learning curve for me. Along the line, I had a group of younger girls who were being bullied by the older ones. I told them to be strong, outspoken and never allow anyone to look down on them. It worked and everyone was happy.

  • Steal the show

    Steal the show

    Yetunde Oladeinde

     

    WHEN you step into a place, the first thing you crave is to be noticed.  That happens when your fabric, design as well as the accessories compliment your overall outlook.

    The year has taken off and the fashion scene is staging a big comeback after the fallout from COVID-19 last year.

    Our designers are back at it with haute couture at the centre of it all. You find a mix of conventional and non-conventional fabrics used for churning out pieces that steal the show anytime.

    Exclusive pieces are fabulous for formal events. At a recent event,  seasoned designer, Princess Kelechi Oghene of the GMYT Fashion Academy  and her team stormed the Eventistry, Lekki Lagos  with runway exclusives  depicting  what to expect this year .

    The collection projected contemporary formal wears,  bold and bright colours,  necklines that were really appealing  as well as dramatic sleeves  on models who made it all magnetic.