The Nation Newspaper

Category: Fashion

  • Celebs who made heads turn at Reel Love premiere

    Celebs who made heads turn at Reel Love premiere

    Movie stars delighted us with spectacular  outfits at the premiere of Timini Egbuson’s ‘Reel Love’ in Lagos.

    Funke Akindele, Dakore Egbuson–Akande, Lilian Afegbai, Hermes Iyele were some of actors who shined bright on the red carpet at the star-studded event.

    These actresses and their stylists, not only adhere to the dress code of the event, but they understand the theme of real love.

    Read Also: Tinubu pledges support for fintech sector

    The film ‘Reel Love’ was directed by Kayode Kasum and written by Ife Olujuyigbe. The project boasts a stellar cast including Shaffy Bello, Muyiwa Ademola, Funke Akindele, Bimbo Ademoye, Jay On Air, Hermes Iyele, Atlanta Bridget Johnson, Efa Iwara, Lilian Afegbai, and TJ Omusuku.

    OLAITAN GANIU picked stars who turned heads on the red carpet at night.

  • Cultural Renaissance: Celebrating Africa through fashion

    Cultural Renaissance: Celebrating Africa through fashion

    Fashion can be a powerful tool to celebrate multiculturalism by promoting cultural understanding and building bridges between them. The vibrant prints, traditional silhouettes, and intricate detailing of African textile can honour ancestral roots and showcase our cultural identity to the world.

    This advocacy is what is reflecting in Mettabel’s Thread latest collection tagged, ‘Cultural Renaissance’. It celebrates the richness of Nigerian traditions while seamlessly incorporating contemporary fashion trends.

    ‘Cultural Renaissance’ features a thoughtfully curated lineup of designs that breathe new life into traditional styles, making them relevant and appealing to today’s fashion enthusiasts.

    The collection showcases a harmonious blend of colour, texture, and style, reflecting Nigeria’s diverse cultural heritage, historical narratives, and the vibrant spirit of its people. Each piece tells a story and offers versatility for modern wardrobes.

    Read Also: Nigeria’s economic comeback: Tinubu’s reforms turn the tide

    “This collection reflects our commitment to preserving and celebrating Nigerian culture through fashion,” says Damilola Edun, founder of Mettabel’s Thread. “We aimed to create designs that not only look stylish but also carry a deeper meaning, connecting wearers to their heritage while embracing contemporary aesthetics.”

    Mettabel’s Thread prioritises sourcing materials locally from Nigerian fabric makers and artisans, supporting and celebrating local craftsmanship. While primarily using local resources, the brand also incorporates select imported materials to enhance quality and add unique touches to certain pieces.

    Mettabel’s Thread aspires to be a source of pride for Nigeria and an inspiration for the global fashion community.

  • ‘How MOWAA became tourist destination in 2025’

    ‘How MOWAA became tourist destination in 2025’

    The Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) in Edo State, Nigeria, has been named by the New York Times as one of its top 50 destinations to visit in 2025. With this recognition, the belief is that the museum is poised to generate approximately 25,000 jobs in Benin City while establishing itself as a crucial hub for artistic development and global connectivity. In this interview OLAITAN GANIU, Ambassador Ayo Omotoso, the MD/CEO of Travelogue shares interesting insights on the potential of this museum and more. Excerpts:

    In a remarkable yet overwhelming recognition of its cultural and arts essence, the Museum of West African Art, MOWAA was recently listed by the New York Times as one of the global destinations to visit in 2025. What does this mean for Edo State?

    This recognition represents a transformative moment for Edo State and Nigeria as a whole. Beyond the prestigious acknowledgment, MOWAA is set to become a major employer in the region, with projections indicating the creation of around 25,000 jobs across various sectors including curation, administration, tourism services, and auxiliary industries. The museum’s presence positions Edo State as a prominent destination on the global tourism map while simultaneously creating substantial economic opportunities for local communities. The state has long been recognized as a cultural cornerstone within Nigeria, particularly through the historical significance of the Benin Kingdom, and MOWAA builds upon this rich heritage while creating new pathways for economic growth.

    What opportunities can this global recognition garner for the museum?

    The global spotlight on MOWAA opens up numerous opportunities for cultural and economic development. Firstly, this attention will lead to a surge of tourists from all over the world looking to visit Benin. These tourists will not only be visiting the Museum when they arrive, they will be staying at hotels, eating at restaurants, transporting themselves, and generally adding tremendous value to the local economy. Additionally, the museum’s comprehensive institutional support program for local artists, which provides skill development workshops, funding access, and direct connections to the global art community. Like the great museums of Paris and London, MOWAA has the potential to become a major cultural education hub, but with a crucial difference: it actively nurtures local talent and provides platforms for contemporary African artists to showcase their work alongside historical artifacts. The museum’s collection will also generate significant tourism revenue while its artist development programs ensure that the region’s artistic legacy continues to evolve and thrive.

    Would this have any meaningful impact on Edo’s culture and heritage?

    This recognition amplifies Edo’s cultural significance, which traces back to the 18th century. Through MOWAA’s artist support initiatives, contemporary local artists will have unprecedented opportunities to learn, create, and connect with the global art community while drawing inspiration from their rich cultural heritage. The Benin Kingdom’s rich traditions, exemplified through its iconic artistic expressions, will serve as a foundation for innovative contemporary interpretations. The New York Times listing will attract a diverse array of visitors, collectors, and cultural institutions, creating opportunities for local artists to showcase their work to an international audience.

    Read Also: We should support our own, Headies founder criticises Nigeria’s obsession with Grammys

    Does tourism hold potential for economic diversification?

    Tourism presents a compelling opportunity for economic diversification in Nigeria, and MOWAA serves as a prime example of this potential. The museum’s projected creation of 25,000 jobs demonstrates how cultural institutions can drive significant employment opportunities. Beyond direct employment, MOWAA’s institutional support for local artists creates a sustainable creative economy that benefits the entire region. Moving beyond the nation’s traditional reliance on oil revenue, this cultural tourism initiative will create multiple revenue streams for both federal and state governments while fostering artistic innovation and cultural exchange. Strategic investment in tourism infrastructure and promotion, coupled with MOWAA’s commitment to artistic development, can drive sustainable economic growth from the grassroots level.

    The recognition of MOWAA by the New York Times marks a new chapter in West African cultural tourism, positioning Edo State as a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and cultural tourists worldwide. Through its dual focus on preserving heritage and nurturing contemporary artistic expression, MOWAA is set to become a transformative force in West Africa’s cultural and economic landscape.

  • My mission on Real Housewives of Lagos Season 3 – Diiadem

    My mission on Real Housewives of Lagos Season 3 – Diiadem

    Adeola “Diiadem” Adeyemi, a Lagos-based entrepreneur and founder of Beauty By AD, has explained why she joined Season 3 of the Real Housewives of Lagos (RHOLAGOS). 

    Speaking about her reasons, Diiadem stated that her primary goal is to promote her beauty and fashion brand while also embracing personal growth through the platform.

    “The major reason for coming on the show is to push my brand. There’s so much to know about what my brand offers to both men and women,” she explained.

    As someone who describes herself as an introvert, Diiadem believes that the reality show will allow her to express herself in ways she usually wouldn’t. “I want people to understand me better. Cameras help show other perspectives and can clear up misunderstandings about my personality or behavior,” she noted.

    Diiadem sees RHOLAGOS as an opportunity to step out of her comfort zone, develop new skills, and build a stronger community for herself and her brand. She added, “It will help me build confidence because I’m usually shy to speak my mind. Being on the show will help me thrive even in uncomfortable situations.”

    The reality show, according to her, also presents a valuable networking opportunity. She hopes to connect with women from diverse backgrounds, foster friendships, and open doors in the entertainment industry. “It’s a chance to meet people, close deals, and create new opportunities,” she emphasized.

    A Journey from modelling to Beauty Entrepreneurship

    Adeola Adeyemi, popularly known as Diiadem, has carved a name for herself in the beauty and fashion industry. Born to Yoruba and Igbo parents, Diiadem’s career began with modeling and video vixen roles, which ignited her passion for beauty.

    Read Also: Real Housewives Of Lagos, Cheta M to premiere with new seasons

    In 2016, she founded Beauty By AD, a makeup brand aimed at promoting inclusivity and quality. Recognizing a gap in the industry during her time as a makeup artist, Diiadem created a brand that caters to diverse skin tones and makes luxury products affordable.

    Under her leadership, Beauty By AD has grown to become a global brand, earning her multiple awards and recognition. Her vision for the company reflects her commitment to innovation and quality, solidifying her position as a leader in the beauty industry.

    Now, with her participation in RHOLAGOS, Diiadem is set to merge her entrepreneurial journey with the entertainment world, showcasing her brand and personal story to a broader audience.

  • Quiet and Elegance in Indigenous Identity

    Quiet and Elegance in Indigenous Identity

    • By Daniel Usidamen

    The immediate calm of this image is the kind of composed confidence you get when clothes and character harmonise like in a musical composition. The sitter wears a classic indigenous ceremonial dress interpreted with modern restraint, the gele(headgear) is mounted with the dexter of a sculptor, the sheer lace bùbá-style top with bell sleeves, and a richly patterned ìró (wrapper) in a chocolate-bronze palette. None of them screams; everyone is allowed to glow, reflecting the collection’s name “Ageless Culture”, a brainchild of Goodluck Jane Okwuchukwu of Boriah Couture exhibited on January 6th 2025.

    The choice of a monochrome brown story is a masterstroke. The shades run from latte to dark kola nut, linked by metallic flecks that catch the light without veering into glare. The lace top, a tulle embellished with sequins and threadwork—adds airiness, while the wrapper’s diamond motif brings structure; together creating a depth that appeals to the camera, especially considering the tonally matched backdrop.

    How does a silhouette still read when the wearer is seated? The blouse is gently fitted across the shoulders, note the clean sleeve head, relaxing through the torso so it never looks strained in a sitting position. Bell cuffs finish just past the wrist bones elegant, practical, and perfect for showcasing jewelry. The wrapper is tied high enough to lengthen the leg line; its hem grazes the instep for modesty and proportion. Crossed ankles and a soft forward lean giving the pose a courtly poise, no stiffness, just ease.

    The gele is the look’s crown, literally and figuratively. It’s a controlled spiral, wrapped to give height without overshadowing the face. The pleats are crisp and evenly spaced, proof of careful tying. The fabric choice mirrors the outfit’s palette, so the headpiece frames rather than competes. Think of it as architectural minimalism with cultural memory.

    Coral beads (ìlẹ̀kẹ̀) do more than accessorize, they anchor the look in heritage make it “ageless”. The doubled necklace provides vertical emphasis; matching earrings and bangles keep the story coherent. Importantly, the coral’s warm orange sits complimentary to the cooler bronze-brown, adding a sophisticated color tension. On the feet, embellished mules, a cluster of gold beading that nods to festivity without upstaging the rest. They also echo the sparkle in the lace sleeves, creating a satisfying top-and-toe conversation.

    The stylist choice of a semi-sheer yoke offers lightness and a hint of skin, tempered by the high collar of coral. It’s modest, modern, and very photogenic. The Sequins, beadwork, coral, and woven wrapper, four textures, none shouting. The harmony comes from keeping the colors in the same earth-metal family.

    Makeup is restrained, a satin-finish complexion, softly defined brows, a rose-brown lip. Nothing heavy, nothing editorial—just an enhancement that lets the jewelry and textiles lead. The result is a face that reads warm and approachable, which suits the storytelling intent of a collection that projects cultural identity. This look communicates dignity without severity. Celebration without spectacle. It feels intergenerational, something a matriarch could wear to a high ceremony and a younger woman could echo at a milestone event. The message is: “I belong here, and so does many generations.”

    If you want to push it further, switch the palette, keep the silhouette but try a deep indigo or forest green ìró with the same lace top; the coral will sing even louder. Adding the slim broad strip of local fabric ìpèlé (shoulder sash) in metallic aso-oke could add length and ceremony for standing portraits or processions. For ultra-modern minimalism, one longer strand of coral and smaller studs; for maximalist joy, layer a filigree gold pendant between the corals. Closed-toe embroidered slippers for a more traditional finish at evening events; keep the mules for daytime ceremonies.

    The craft  and tailoring are deserving of applause, an even beading density on the mules, no bald patches at the edges, sleeve hems finished cleanly (no loose threads visible under studio lights), wrapper pattern aligned, allowing diamond motifs stack neatly down the center front; that alignment makes the difference between “bought” and “considered.”

  • 2024: Celebs who dazzled on red carpets

    2024: Celebs who dazzled on red carpets

    As the curtain falls on 2024, it’s the ideal time to reflect on several celebrities who have made a significant impact on the fashion scene. Each year, Nigerian celebrities set fashion trends by showcasing the latest styles and designs on the red carpet and through their social media pages. OLAITAN GANIU highlights a selection of entertainers who inspire fans and fashion enthusiasts with their distinctive style.

    Funke Akindele

    The actress delivered a series of vintage barbie-inspired red carpet looks during her film premiere,

    ‘Everybody Loves Jenifa’.

    •Priscilla Ojo

    She is a perfect definition of Gen-Z babe. Priscilla, daughter of Nollywood actress, Iyabo Ojo is representing her generation in the fashion industry.

    Lateef Adedimeji and wife

    Celebrity couple, Lateef Adedimeji and his wife, Mobimpe made a daring fashion statement with their ready-to-wear designs.

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     Toke Makinwa

    Give it to her. Popular On Air Personality and actress, Toke Makinwa has already established herself as a fashion icon. She is trend queen.

    Veekee James

     With her blue to-match dress, Fashion designer cum content creator, Veekee exuded confidence and sophistication.

    Bimbo Ademoye

    Call her the ‘Glamour girl’ Bimbo simply sets herself apart in the 2024 style corridor. Her top-

    notch style choices included embellished, sassy outfits.

    Rita Dominic

    She stepped out like a mother of runaway models at the night of the 45th Miss Nigeria. She is beautiful, bold and sassy with the outfit.

    Femi Adebayo

    Femi’s popularity is not only limited to acting  and filmmaker. The multiple award-winning thespian is ruling the world of men’s fashion.

    RMD

    His presence at the festivals and events was more than a celebratory appearance; it was a homage to a

    legacy that continues to elevate African.

  • Gambia First Lady Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow visits April by Kunbi, says Africa is blessed

    Gambia First Lady Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow visits April by Kunbi, says Africa is blessed

    Gambia First Lady Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow visits April by Kunbi, says Africa is blessed

    The First Lady of the Republic of Gambia, Her Excellency, Mrs Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow has, in the wake of Christmas, visited a leading fashion and designing flagship store, April by Kunbi in Lagos.

    H.E. Bah-Barrow extolled the creativity of the New York trained Creative Director of the brand, Mrs Olakunbi Uzochukwu, for promoting African culture and for creating jobs for youths in the country.

    Recall that April by Kunbi which launched its rebirth on the 8th December 2024 is home to three brands – Stan & Beth (fashion ingenuity for children, inspired by loyal customers seeking elegance for their little ones); Kunbi Lagos (a slow fashion ready-to-wear brand with classic designs that trascends trends) and Odiuko (luxury fabric store offering one-of-a-kind fabrics for discerning clients with an eye for extra-exclusivity).

    Mrs Kunbi Uzochukwu, the proud alumni of the world renowned fashion institute, Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), New York, which also produced the legendary Calvin Klein, has also garnered global acclaim for her creativity and artistry with designs gracing brides and fashion enthusiasts from Lagos to around the world.

    Nigerian political and business leaders who attended the rebirth launch include Air Peace airline owner, Chief Allen Onyema, former Cross River State governor and wife, Mr and Mrs Donald Duke, Senators Ben Murray-Bruce, Daisy Danjuma, Iyabo Obasanjo, two times former Minister of Industry, Chief Nike Akande; Chairman of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission and former House of Representative member, Hon Abike Debiri-Erewa; a renowned clergy, Bishop Isaac Idahosa, Managing Director of popular Blake Resorts, Dr. Uzochukwu Akunedoze, Mr Frank Edoho among other top dignitaries showered accolades on the creativity behind the brand in separate speeches.

    Read Also: First Lady doles out N50 million to 250 elderly persons in Enugu

    Responding to journalists during her visit, the Gambian First Lady said, “I have seen quality, inspiration and determination in what I see during the tour of the facility and they align with my style.

    “I prefer to dress modestly being an African, and I believe we should have our own taste before importing and integrating other cultures that are not ours. Let us maintain our culture. Human beings without culture are nothing.

    “It’s creating jobs because I am seeing only youths around the shop and the factory. That shows when you come to my country, you will create jobs and when you go to another African country, you create a job.

    “Let us maintain our content and consume what we produce. Africa is a blessed continent and I believe no one can come and build our continent. We need to build it by ourselves, especially the young ones. Everyone should be proud of themselves and be proud of people that are representing your continent.

    “Everyone should come and have a look at fashion collections in April by Kunbi. Seeing is believing. I believe in that. When I came, I saw the exact things in the video that was sent to me in Gambia. I said wow, we could have this in Africa? You know me, I am a jealous type. I decided to say you have to come to The Gambia. You are welcome to Gambia in 2025.”

  • Chi & Stainless fashion stuns at black culture runway: A collection rooted in pride and poise

    Chi & Stainless fashion stuns at black culture runway: A collection rooted in pride and poise

    When the lights dimmed and the runway gleamed at the Black Culture edition of Arcade Fashion Week Season 7, there was one name buzzing on every fashion enthusiast’s lips, Chi & Stainless Fashion. Led by the ever-evolving designer Ilo Chisom Jane, the label delivered a collection that was more than just fabric and fit; it was a bold tribute to identity, structure, and feminine power.

    From the first step onto the runway, the Chi & Stainless collection read like a visual poem each piece composed with purpose, each silhouette carrying a story.

    The opening ensemble has a deep plum dress with voluminous sleeves and a cinched waist that set the tone. Modeled with commanding confidence, the look struck a balance between regality and wearability. The color choice was deliberate. Purple, long associated with royalty, was transformed into a modern wardrobe weapon through Ilo’s minimalist tailoring and accentuated sleeve drama.

    This piece was not just a dress. It was a statement. And it wasn’t alone. Trailing behind, other iterations of purple emerged,

    some adorned with ruffles, others sleek and tailored. Together, they created a chromatic rhythm that hypnotized the audience. Purple became the mood, not just the color.

    Chi & Stainless didn’t stop with femininity, it came for the kings too. A standout look featured a burgundy double-breasted suit with asymmetrical tailoring and white contrast stitching, worn with a matching beret. It was Afro-elegant and subtly militant. A gentleman’s armor. The detailing, minimal but intentional spoke to the designer’s deep understanding of structure and cultural pride.

    Another male model followed in a more traditional beige-toned piece, grounded and refined, offering an alternative for those who lean towards understated sophistication.

    One of the most visually arresting looks was a layered plum gown with dramatic puff sleeves and an exaggerated side train echoing traditional elegance with a fearless contemporary edge. The movement of the fabric, the styling, the walk it turned the runway into theater.

    And yet, amidst all the drama, Ilo Chisom Jane’s brilliance was in her restraint. There was cohesion. The collection didn’t shout it resonated. It didn’t pander to trends it defined its own.

    Chi & Stainless Fashion is clearly maturing. From a brand once known for ready-to-wear chic, this runway proved it is stepping into the space of high fashion storytellin, showcasing talent, sleek, strength, and aesthetics into fabric. This wasn’t just a show. It was an announcement. Ilo Chisom Jane is not just participating in fashion. She’s shaping it.

  • Yemi’s TOP TEN

    Yemi’s TOP TEN

    Yemi Solade is an accomplished actor and theatre practitioner who has been contributing to the growth of the entertainment industry for over four decades. The doyen actor tells OLAITAN GANIU his favourite things.

    Favourite wristwatch
    Michael Kors

    Favourite car
    Lexus Supersport

    Favourite designer
    Hakeem Adeniji

    Favourite perfume
    BOSS

    Favourite travel destination
    Abeòkúta

    Favourite song
    Water No Get Enemy
    By Felá Aníkúlápò Kútì

    Read Also: Terry Apala: How Wizkid’s verse transformed my career

    Favourite book
    The Beautyful Ones Are Not Yet Born by Ayi Kwei Armah

    Favourite accessories
    My traditional chieftaincy beads,
    cap, wristwatch and slides

    Favourite actor/artiste
    Yemí Sóladé

    Favourite food
    Fùfú, Ewédú/Gbègìrì, goat
    intestines and fresh fish

  • April by Kunbi: Ex-Gov Duke, Onyema, Dabiri-Erewa, others commend Uzochukwu

    April by Kunbi: Ex-Gov Duke, Onyema, Dabiri-Erewa, others commend Uzochukwu

    Nigerian politicians, business leaders and celebrities stormed Lekki Phase 1 in Lagos State, to witness the Rebirth of one of Africa’s most iconic fashion brands, ‘April by Kunbi‘.

    April by Kunbi Flagship Store is home to three brands – Stan & Beth (fashion ingenuity for children, inspired by loyal customers seeking elegance for their little ones); Kunbi Lagos (bridging couture and ready-to-wear with designs that bring effortless elegance to everyday life) and Odiuko (luxury fabric store offering one-of-a-kind fabrics for discerning clients with an eye for extra-exclusivity).

    The brand Creative Director, a trained fashion professional from the prestigious Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), New York, Mrs Kunbi Uzochukwu expressed appreciation to her father, Elder Caleb Olawole Oyelese PhD (former Minister for Power and Zteel) for believing in her dreams and husband, the Chairman/CEO of Stanel Group and The Delborough Lagos, Dr Stanley Uzochukwu for believing in her vision and for investing heavily in her. She disclosed that the extra-modern flagship store was acquired and renovated for her as a 40th birthday gift by her husband and asked everyone to thank him.

    Mrs Kunbi Uzochukwu, the proud alumni of the world renowned fashion institute which also produced the legendary Calvin Klein, has also garnered global acclaim for her creativity and artistry with designs gracing brides and fashion enthusiasts from Lagos to around the world.

    Air Peace airline owner, Chief Allen Onyema, former Cross River State governor and wife, Mr and Mrs Donald Duke, Senators Ben Murray-Bruce, Daisy Danjuma, Iyabo Obasanjo, two times former Minister of Industry, Chief Nike Akande; Chairman of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission and former House of Representative member, Hon Abike Debiri-Erewa; a renowned clergy, Bishop Isaac Idahosa, Managing Director of popular Blake Resorts, Dr. Uzochukwu Akunedoze, Mr Frank Edoho among other top dignitaries showered accolades on the creativity behind the brand in separate speeches.

    Read Also: FG to commence testing of minerals samples locally – Alake

    Onyema said he was honoured to be at the grand opening of the brand, noting that what he saw inside the building amazes him, particularly, seeing Nigerian made clothes.

    He said: “I am happy seeing people making Nigeria proud this way. I want to see Nigerians using Nigerian made clothes. Her exceptional talent and attention to details is evident in her works. Personally, my wife and I will patronize Kunbi,” he added.

    Senator Daisy Danjuma who declared the ‘April by Kunbi Flagship Store’ open congratulated Kunbi for implementing her vision and thanked her husband, Dr Stanley Uzochukwu, for empowering his wife. She used the occasion to call on other men to empower their wives in the like manner.

    “I encourage all men to empower their wives. All the men should go home and open businesses for their wives.”

    On his part, Senator Ben Murray-Bruce expressed honour and delight to witness the opening of the April by Kunbi. He equally praised The Delborough Lagos which has redefined hospitality across Africa where Mrs Kunbi Uzochukwu is the Managing Director. He expressed satisfaction for using Nigerian made goods in April by Kunbi and commended the efforts of the couple.

    On their part, former Cross River State governor Donald Duke and his wife commended the Creative Director, Kunbi Uzochukwu for investing in the fashion design business and wished her well on the venture.

    Former Minister of Industry, Mrs Nike Akande congratulated and praised Kunbi for her outstanding creativity and for creating jobs for those who are working with her. She noted that she believes in the industrialization of Nigeria as an ex-minister of Industry. She promised to patronize Kunbi. She equally commended The Delborough Lagos, noting that it’s the best hotel she has ever visited across the globe.

    Senator Iyabo Obasanjo poured encomium on fashion professional Kunbi, stressing that her creativity is compared to none. She disclosed that though she never met Kunbi, her friends told her that she is the most creative Nigerian fashion designer. She wished Kunbi the best and to be the best in all over the world.