African-Fashion: INDEGENOUS FASHION

African-Fashion: INDEGENOUS FASHION

Have you ever dressed to the teeth? Looking so fancy and decked you stand in front of a mirror just to imagine yourself on the red carpet. Well, I have! I believe first impressions matter; you have to dress how you want to be addressed. Today’s red carpet is filled with so much flashing lights and glamour, the trendiest designs, expensive accessories and jewelries, and that killer shoe that makes a fashion statement. Some celebrities go as far as renting wears and clothing accessories from couture’s, fashion houses, jewelers with the purpose of outshining the next person for that “one perfect shot” in the tabloids.

The Nigerian red carpet has taken a new turn in the last decade. Our indigenous fashion designers have grown to become locally and internationally recognized and appreciated for unique and magnificent designs that are jaw breaking. It’s a different ball game now from the times when only the French or Italian brands where mentioned on the carpet. Still faced with the challenge of complementing local attires in fashion shows……

African-Fashion: INDEGENOUS FASHION

There are a few local designers who have set the pace for others and have made Nigeria proud, the indigenous fashion lifespan wouldn’t be in existence without them……

Ade Bakare: He never turns a blind eye to a flawless classic look. His work could be described as both classic and contemporary. The London based designer, who is passionate about fashion, has also been a part of promoting well known fashion labels in Nigeria by establishing projects such as “The Young Designers Creative Competition”. Ade Bakare has been in fashion business since 1991.

Fioye Akinsola, Oyeyemi Wemi Akinsola and Nike Ajanaku, founded Virgo Lounge. They all share the same zodiac sign “Virgo”. Their passion for looking unique and appealing has set them apart to other designers.

Frank Oshodi: Frank Oshodi is one of the top Nigerian fashion brands. He has gained a lot of experience in the fashion industry, having being around in the industry since 1989. Starting first as a model, to becoming a model manager and then a makeup artist. Frank Oshodi is one of those whose work speaks for him. He is a favorite among the crème de la crème. He is famous for one of his “deep v neck dress “which Agbani Darego wore when she was crowned miss world in 2001.

The above listed Nigerian designers are just a few of the many Nigerian designers that are making impressions. I have seen many red carpet events live and on television. I believe our Nigerian celebrities need to support more of our local talents, the growth of the Nigerian fashion industry is dependent on exposure and showcasing of the designs…….