It’s a New Year, and for Nigerian Fashion, I am looking forward to being blown away by amazing, fresh and groundbreaking talent. Last year, here on Bella Naija Style, we featured quite a few emerging designers – not just that, many of their designs rocked the red carpets as we saw on BN Red Carpet Fab. While we look into the future for brand new design talent, we hope the current players continue to push the style boundaries to propel the development of the African Fashion Industry.

Over the last few years, we have seen a crop of young designers make their way into Nigerian Fashion, and for the designers who made our LIST, we hope for  accelerated growth in 2011.  In the midst of an industry saturated with talent, there are those who stand out.

Putting together this list was an exciting experience for me, there has  been an explosion of talent in the industry for the past few years and I am immensely proud of this! Maki Oh, Phunk Afrique, Zebra, Okunoren Twins, Eniola David and so many more have made a commendable impact.

I am glad to introduce this crop of designers to you; many have not released their first ‘official’ collections yet have caught out attention. It is a mixed bag – From  Port Harcourt to Lagos and over to Abuja – These designers are definitely worth knowing and it is our hope that they will contribute towards making 2011 a wonderful year for Nigerian fashion.

The designers listed on this feature were picked based  on design talent, the strength of their brand, our interest in what their brand has to offer in the future, and also PR , Marketing , Visibility and Identification of the brand. We considered how they are pushing their brand to the consumers and also the response from the target consumers – the fabulous fashion loving African stylistas and trend setters.

It should be an exciting year for Nigerian Fashion!

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BABUSHKA

Simi Osinubi

Babushka is a young label headed by Simi Osinubi. The label which launched in 2010, set alarms across the Nigerian fashion scene towards the end of the year with a constant flow of designs gracing the big events.

Simi initially started out sketching her designs and then over time she started making some of the designs for herself, and opened up a small studio at her home where she currently runs Babushka.

This hands-on designer, who considers herself the muse of her label,  favours simple clothing – clean lines and great attention to detail which she reflects in Babushka creations.

“The Babushka woman is one who is self-assured. She understands her own style and is never a fashion victim. When asked to describe my label I always say ‘wearable is the new couture’. I like to think our pieces are all very special but at the same time fit into the Babushka woman’s existing wardrobe and she can mix and match our pieces with items she already has in her wardrobe.”- Simi Osinubi

What I get from Babushka is this young, sexy, elevated modern spirit. It is well crafted, detail-oriented pieces, but they leave room for flexibility and for an individual’s personality to shine through, allowing the wearer to tell their own story through their deigns. The brand presents itself as very youthful, but with a deep sense of maturity and confidence in who they are and their style.

During a short period of time, Simi has managed to generate interest in the brand, and I am personally looking forward to what the brand has to offer and to Babushka continually validating its spot in Nigerian Fashion Industry as a hot newcomer.

Adaku Ufere (left), Kike Soyede (middle) & Ezinne Alfa (right) in Babushka

Follow @simibabushka on twitter
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TOJU FOYEH

Designer Toju Foyeh is not exactly a newcomer to Nigerian Fashion. She’s been featured here on BellaNaija.com and MyAsho.com stocks her designs, so she’s been able to lay some ground on her label.

What I hope for all designers as they establish their brands in the midst of competing ones, is growth in their visual narratives, in the execution and presentation of their collections. I hope to watch them evolve, especially the young ones, and see how their personal growth transitions to their creative.

Toju Foyeh is one of those designers who started out young, her intrigue for the creative art of high fashion, compelled her to start putting her ideas on paper at the age of nine, and then she launched her label as an undergraduate student.

Earlier in 2010, the label seemed to have taken a back seat, but obtained revived interest with Tiwa Savage, who has been seen gracing event  red carpets wearing Toju Foyeh. What we’ve seen from the brand is definitely an evolution, as we can see she’s become more confident as a designer. She’s discovering more of herself as a designer and she is using her label as a means of expression. We see bolder pieces form the brand, in colour and cut, and the brand expands beyond  sleek cocktail dresses and is now more embracing of volume.

The Toju Foyeh label has managed to extend itself to a more mature audience, it still remains girly, but we an added appeal to its designs that is more likely to resonate with an older audience than  previous designs did.  I’ve seen two pieces and I’m already raving, hopefully she’ll continue the trend in 2011, if she does, I predict an amazing year for the brand.

Tiwa Savage in Toju Foyeh

Click Join Toju Foyeh group on facebook
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RE BAHIA

Orire Omatsola

Re Bahia is a brand conceived by 20 year old student of Art History at the University Of Manchester, Orire Omatsola. Re Bahia, which she describes as a mother-daughter brand, as her mum is greatly involved in executing the vision for the brand, got its name from her infusion of her love for Brazilian culture and the last bit of her name.

Orire though new to the Fashion Industry, got the conviction that this was the right path to follow at 17 after her experience at a summer fashion programme in Milan, thus, taking the plunge to start her label at an age most would consider quite young.

Re Bahia got thrown into the fashion spotlight after Orire took part in the FAB Night Out event which was in partnership with Vlisco. Her appearance at the show led to Eku Edewor and Dolapo Oni of Studio 53 Extra along with Silverbird’s Yvonne Ekwere showing up to the to the 2010 MAMA’s glamed up in Re Bahia creations.

In an interview with HauteFashionAfrica.com, when asked about the aesthetic of Re Bahia, Orire says: “The brand’s aesthetic is all about Simplicity. I love fabrics and I believe when you’ve got an amazing piece of fabric, keep the designing to the minimum. I commend people that can create new species of birds with their designs but that’s not me”.

Although a new label, the brand has already released two collections: ‘Non’ and ‘Lola’. When I saw both collections, I was genuinely excited, the work speaks for itself and Orire is definitely a talent. I love the colours, Re Bahia is a vibrant, engaging brand. I love how she uses textures, fabrics and prints. Re Bahia happens to have gotten the basics; cut, finish, aesthetic, brand personality right from the start, and as someone young in fashion,  continuous improvement in her craft is key to keep her label in the spotlight. The question for Re Bahia becomes where do they go from here as a brand, how would she beat her last collections, and show growth in her vision and the brand’s style power. I can’t wait to see how she achieves that  this year!

For someone whose inspiration comes from dreams, she’s definitely presented quite a few pieces which I’m sure will be haunting my dreams as they make their way on my wishlists.

Studio 53 extra girls: Eku Edewor & Dolapo Oni in Re Bahia

http://www.rebahia.com/
Follow @Re_Bahia on twitter
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BRIDGET AWOSIKA

Bridget Awosika

In December 2008, Bridget Awosika launched her brand in her home country, Nigeria with the preview of her Spring/Summer 2009 collection titled “art nouveau”, a collection I described as “ a breath of fresh fine air” because she was bringing something new to the Industry.

Bridget Awosika brings experience, she’s worked with Donna Karen and Giorgio Armani. Over the years, she’s nurtured her talent, which has developed into a refined and assured sense of who she is as a designer and what her label has to offer.

Bridget is one of those designers whom you can relate with their personal style, and she uses it to express her point of view as a designer. While she’s taking her time to bring out her collection, her red carpet style has kept us all entertained and her brand in the loop as she is constantly in her own creations.

My expectations are quite high for the next collection from the brand, I was blown away by the first I had seen from her and I am hoping for a similar reaction when I’m confronted with the next.

Bridget Awosika is a brand I see emerging as a major player in the Nigerian fashion Industry. What I would hope for the brand, is consistency in delivery. 2011 will be a big year for the brand, as we look forward to an official collection from the brand, I expect to be dazzled.

Adaure Achumba (left) in Bridget Awosika

http://www.bridgetawosika.com

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EJIRO AMOS TAFIRI

Ejiro Amos Tafiri

Ejiro Amos Tafiri is an emerging brand in Nigerian Fashion. Her road to fashion began with a choice to take a clothing and textile class, which transformed this young lady from a  wannabe doctor to a fashion designer.

Her interest in the industry led her to study fashion at YABATECH, and intern at Zizi Ethnic Clothing and then transition to a role with iconic Nigerian label, Tiffany Amber. Ejiro still has a few buns in the figurative oven, with plans to launch a menswear collection later in the future, though last year, Ejiro Amos Tarifi’s modern, stylish and chic ready-to-wear pieces was what got people talking.

“We pride ourselves in our production of wearable clothing and accessories inspired by the vibrant, fun loving, joie de vivre culture of the Lagos people and the cultural diversity of its populace which spans the globe. Creativity and excellent craftsmanship are our watchword.”– Ejiro Amos Tafiri

One of the reasons I love this brand, is because it is truly home grown and she proves that the development in Nigerian Fashion Industry is hitting at the grassroots, with fashion courses available, and internships with established designers.

With monthly appearances at Le Petite Marche, Ejiro Amos Tafiri is pushing her brand to fashion enthusiasts which has seen her pieces worn at major events and I predict that this will be a continuing trend in 2011.

Omawumi (left) & Gbemi Phillips (right) in Ejiro Amos Tafiri

www.ejiroamostafiri.com/

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MARIAM ILAKA

Mariam Ilaka

Mariam Ilaka is a fashion brand owned by Istituto Marangoni trained designer Mariam Ilaka. Mariam Ilaka sells well tailored clothes for women as well as leather accessories. Her style of designing is “chic and original”.

Prior to starting her fashion company,  Mariam Ilaka who is a CIPD certified HR professional worked in several blue chip organisations but decided to make a career of what come to her naturally….making women look good. She says “I have always created fashionable clothes right from my days in the University of Lagos where I graduated with a Second Class Upper in Geography”. She recently graduated from Istituto Marangoni in Milan and has returned to Nigeria in to make women feel and look beautiful in her pieces.

Mariam Ilaka’s debut collection put her on the BN watch list.  The collection boasts of simple, structured pieces, some dabbed in embroidery and others with intense layers of tulle. She presented contemporary pieces, and long gowns with a vintage flair.

I see more pieces  from the collection being worn in 2011, and they do deserve an  audience, they are immaculately designed and are standout pieces in their own right.

Adora Oleh (left) & Model (right) in Mariam Ilaka

www.mariamilaka.com
Follow @Mariamilaka on twitter

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OBSIDIAN

Isoken Ogiemwonyi

Isoken Ogeimwonyi is the talented brain behind Obsidian – “An independent fashion line for the discerning lady with a flair for the bold and unusual but with her own individual style.

Sexy, fun and spunky, an Obsidian girl sets herself apart and is the epitome of all that is chic and elegant. A bold use of colour and attention to detail in all the garments ensures that when you wear Obsidian you STAND OUT”.

Last year, the label set a standard for creativeness and innovation in the Nigerian Fashion Industry, with the launch of  a short film for the “Control” collection.

We’ve spotted Obsidian designs at events, and on Model & Muse of the brand, Nicole Chukwueke.

The brand has already done a tremendous job in positioning itself as a pacesetter for young upcoming designers. This year, I hope to see them take more steps forward in establishing their brand as a creative powerhouse in design and the mediums in which they choose to push their brand  either to encourage individuals to buy Nigerian or to gain the  attention of Nigerian fashion enthusiasts.

Nicole Chukwueke (left) and Onyinye Onwugbenu (right) in Obsidian

Check out a sneak peek of Obsidian’s new mini-collection courtesy HauTe Fashion Africa

Click to Join Obsidian group on facebook
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APRIL BY Kunbi

Olakunbi Oyelese

APRIL by Kunbi is a fashion label that specialises in bespoke and ready-to-wear fashion for women who place a premium on the principles of fashion, fit, and functionality.

Founded in the spring of 2010, the brand is the brain-child of Olakunbi Oyelese, a graduate of the renowned Fashion Institute of Technology in New York. Inspired by the month of April – the start of the Spring season, APRIL by Kunbi has been built on the philosophies of “newness, freshness and colour”.

With an ever-growing portfolio of prêt-a-porter and custom-made fashion items, APRIL aims to be a one stop source, a lifestyle brand for everything from Evening and Cocktail dresses to Casual/Active wear, Sleepwear, footwear,Accessories, and lingerie. The company aspires to be in a position to boldly assert; “You name it, APRIL by Kunbi has it”!

Kunbi Oyelese is a fortunate newcomer, as she is undoubtedly one of the most sought after young designers at the moment. The later part of 2010, saw numerous APRIL by Kunbi designs grace the red carpet,  for one, we’ve seen Mo’ Cheddah in their designs for two major events; Channel O Awards and the MAMAs.

APRIL by Kunbi pieces ooze  fun, flirty, and girly. Her pieces will continue to be embraced by young Nigeria and I look forward to official debut collection from the brand.

Mo'Cheddah (left), Agani Darego (middle) & Oreka Godis (right) in APRIL by Kunbi

Follow @ Ola_kunbi on twitter

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SIDI BESPOKE

Alhassan Mohammed of Sidi Bespoke

Self trained designer,  Alhassan Mohammed is the man behind Sidi Bespoke – A menswear label based in Abuja. His understanding of the  perfect execution of a finely tailored suit can amazingly be attributed to  lessons from Saville Row via Youtube and Google – Talk about the power of the internet!

Sidi Bespoke has gathered  some press since its inception: The label was featured in Mode Men Magazine’s Black Night 2009 fashion show, Sidi Bespoke styled MI for the album cover of  ‘Talk About It’. He also dressed and styled Jesse Jagz for the just concluded Dynamics awards.

In 2011, plans are already on the way to launch a ready to wear line that will feature, suits, jackets, pants, shirts, tunics, polos and leather products. The brand is also working on a flagship store in Abuja and another in Lagos to launch during the last quarter of 2011.

MI (left) & Jesse Jagz (right) in Sidi Bespoke

Follow @sidibespoke on twitter

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AKPOS OKUDU

Akpos Okudu

Akpos Okudu is a promising young designer based in Port-Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria. Her label: Akpos Okudu delivers ” romantic, flirty, feminine dresses in lots of bright colours; for the woman who wants to be elegant and confident without losing her soft feminine side”.

For Akpos, the interest in fashion runs in her family, with her grand mother as a dressmaker and her aunt a designer based in the Caribbeans.

In a recent interview, Akpos said, “I’m very inspired by colors and fabrics, especially bright colors. I also love pastels and warm colors, so I usually have a mix of bright and muted tones when designing a collection.” Celebrities including Omowunmi Akinnifesi and Joke Silva have been spotted in Akpos Okudu pieces and we envision even more to come from the Akpos Okudu label in 2011.

Model Uchay (left) in Akpos Okudu

www.akposokudu.com

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GREY

Rukky Ladoja & Obi Obi of Grey with Tola Ayanwale

Grey was formed by the talented duo – Rukky Ladoja and Obi Obi in September 2008 by thoughwas not fully operational until 2009.

Rukky had design and styling experience prior to the start of Grey, and in choosing to start a line in Nigeria Obi Obi proved to be the perfect partner. Currently, Rukky handles the designing of their collections and Obi deals with all the the PR, the finance and customer relationships.

The label burst into the Nigerian Fashion Industry to satisfy a gap in the emerging market; the need for everyday pieces. The casual staples that occupy the most bits of the average woman’s closet. Focusing on classic style and the playful personality of the brand and affordable pricing, the duo have been able to build a seemingly sustainable brand.

Their pieces cut across a variety of individuals, and have a place in every woman’s closet. Grey is very “get-up-and-go” – to work, to lunch, on a date, and to a formal event and that’s the major attraction to the brand- the easiness and wearability of the pieces.

I love that they have identified a market for themselves, and one that they are excelling at. This year, all I want is more from Grey...I think I can do with no colours as far as there is some touch of Grey.

Uchenna Ezenna (left), Dolapo Oni (middle) & Dammie Amolegbe (right) in Grey

http://www.begrey.com/

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Credits: Toni Tones – http://tonitones.shutterchance.com/archive/ , Kola Oshalusi | Maestro Media – http://maestromedia.blogspot.com/ | Style By Queens – http://stylebyqueens.co.uk/| Saze Osayande | Ijaw Girl – http://ijawgirl.blogspot.com/ | April by Kunbi | Grey | www.BellaNaija.com

The post The BN Hot List! BellaNaija Presents 11 Young, Fabulous & Talented Designers to Watch in 2011 appeared first on BellaNaija - Nigeria breaking & top news to the World 24/7. Read Today.

A trendy piece by April By Kunbi, one of the bright young talents on the Nigerian fashion scene caught our eye for this edition of BN Pick Your Fave.

Today, we have two gorgeous women rocking an April By Kunbi mini, the dress hugs their curves and the detailing of the sequined skirt sparkles up the look.

Today, the “Kele Kele Love” songstress Tiwa Savage and Marketing Exec Renny Akande battle it out in this edition of BN Pick Your Fave.

Tiwa Savage & Renny Akande in April by Kunbi

We spotted Renny Akande in this sassy mini at the 2010 MAMA Awards, Renny accessorized the dress with silver drop earrings, a bracelet, a black watch, a black clutch bag. She completed her look with black heels with gold buckles.

Then at Exquisite Magazine’s “Partying Against Cancer” event, Tiwa Savage rocked the same dress. Tiwa accessorized her look with pink feather earrings, a gold bracelet and black platform pumps. The finishing touch was a dazzling bright smile!

So…Pick Your Fave

The post Pick Your Fave appeared first on BellaNaija - Nigeria breaking & top news to the World 24/7. Read Today.

Brand spanking new video from Knighthouse star Mo’Cheddah.
The video for her track “See Me” featuring Phenom was directed by Clarence Peters and gives us a peek into the new Mo’Cheddah “era”.
Look out for her sophomore album in 2012.

Are you feeling it?

Credits
Costume: April by Kunbi | Mai Atafo Inspired
Makeup: Labelle’s Touch

The post New Video: Mo’Cheddah feat. Phenom – See Me appeared first on BellaNaija - Nigeria breaking & top news to the World 24/7. Read Today.

Nigerian designer Olakunbi Oyelese of April by Kunbi launched the first retail space for the brand. The store which is located in Lekki, Lagos is the hub for all April by Kunbi goodies! Ready-to-wear clothing, accessories and for made-to-order pieces (as seen on celebrity clients Tiwa Savage and Mo’Cheddah), customers and prospective customers can drop by for the deluxe shopping experience.

Olakunbi Oyelese is a graduate of the prestigious Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT)  in New York. The April by Kunbi brand celebrates the fun and youthfulness of fashion. The brand is renowned for its signature show-stopping sequined red carpet pieces. Check out photos from the store launch event which took place yesterday, Sunday 1st April 2012.

Jennifer Olize

Tiwa Savage

Valerie Obaze

Veronica Ebie-Odeka

Toju Foyeh

Sasha

Chichi Iyiegbuniwe

Toke Makinwa

Linda Ikeji

Mai Atafo

Estanola Oyelese

Kunbi & Bobo Omotayo

Noble Igwe, Kunbi & Ebuka Obi-Uchedu

Kunbi & Gbemi Olateru-Olagbegi

Inside the April by Kunbi Store

Store Information
Address – Davida Plaza, 31A Admiralty Way, Lekki Phase 1, Lekki, Lagos
Opening Days & Time – Weekdays 10 AM – 7 PM | Sunday 12 Noon – 7 PM
Contact – For more info and general enquiries, send an E-mail to info@aprilbykunbi.com

Photo Credit: Kola Oshalusi for Insigna

The post April by Kunbi opens up its first Retail Space! Sasha, Tiwa Savage, Linda Ikeji, Ebuka, Mai Atafo, Noble Igwe & Gbemi Olateru-Olagbegi at the Official Store Launch in Lekki appeared first on BellaNaija - Nigeria breaking & top news to the World 24/7. Read Today.

For its second edition, bi-monthly publication – Urban Royale Magazine which focuses on the 6 South-South Nigerian states (Edo, Delta, Cross-River, Rivers, Bayelsa & Akwa-Ibom), showcases two delectable Nigerian TV stars – Oreka Godis and Yvonne Vixen Ekwere like never before in its new issue.

The magazine surely knows how to keep its readers loving every new issue more and more after featuring top Nollywood actress – Stella Damasus on its first edition.

From life to love to success and the future, these ladies tell it all.

It seems just like yesterday when Beat FM Morning Rush radio presenter – Oreka Godis left the Lagos based radio station. Few months after her shocking exit, the Clinical Science degree holder has still managed to be in the public eye. She tells the mag that she is quite the dreamer, one who likes to explore her mind and build on her imaginations ” I am somebody who articulates things in a way that is slightly different from how people are used to hearing certain things. I say this and I borrow this from a TV show; I am victim of my own imagination”. She also talks about her roots and how she has lived in almost all Nigerian states including Benin, Oyo, Zaria, Lagos, Ogun and Kogi.

STV’s Entertainment Weekly TV presenter – Yvonne Ekwere  dishes out never before heard details about herself in this tell-all interview. When asked what makes her stand out, the 25 year old said “The fact that I am multi-talented, definitely. People know there is something else to me but they don’t know what it is. I am a singer, rapper, a TV presenter, an actress… I used to write poetry, though I don’t know if I could still do that. You could also say I am a model”.

The screen diva also speaks about growing up, her family, work, coping with the fame and the future. When it came to the topic called love, Yvonne who is currently in a relationship said her ideal man is someone spiritual ” I am a spiritual person as well. I am not a church going, tongue-speaking person but I have a spiritual side. So, he has to have that connection to God somehow”

Newly wedded West Bromwich Albion striker – Osaze Odemwingie, also makes the pages of the magazine. The soviet born Nigerian International footballer speaks to Urban Royale about his life, setbacks in the past and his strings of successes. When asked to talk about himself, the ever smiley Super Eagles said “Uhm.. I would say that I am stubborn, headstrong….an easy flow but not simplistic” I guess fair play and team play has always been my style! I am always humble, friendly and straight but I can be stubborn when not understood and taken for a ride”. He also called Kanu Nwankwo his hero after Nigeria won the Olympic Games in Atlanta, Georgia.

Rivers state born former Miss Nigeria UK – Dabota Lawson reveals exclusively to Nuella Iyoha, her budget beauty secrets. The 25 year old said due to her acne prone sensitive skin, she simple uses face wipes to help her remove water proof mascara and eyeliners without irritating her skin. Her budget beauty secrets also include baby wipes and oil, johnson’s baby powder, lip gloss, Mary Kay liquid foundation and lots more.

Port Harcourt born model, actor and recording artiste – Alex Ekubo is Urban Royale’s 2nd edition Style Star. The mag gives us detailed analysis of his education. He went to Federal Government College, Kaduna for his secondary education and gained a diploma in Mass Communication from Calabar Polytechnic and went on to improve himself by studying Law at the University of Calabar. Speaking on his style, the model whose mother – Jane Ekubo is a fashion designer based in Lagos and designed Kanu Nwankwo wife’s (Amarachi) traditional wedding dress said “Growing up, I’ve always been conscious of how I looked and was raised to know that your appearance in public and how people perceive you means a lot, so I always try to keep it together”

Also in the pages of the magazine is UR’s review of the just concluded Arise Magazine Fashion Week in Lagos with red carpet photos and spotlight on Top Nigerian designer – Mai Atafo, a spread celebrating the Igue Festival and a guide to the city of Asaba, Delta State.

Making the Cover
From start to finish, the mag shows us how the two TV stars got ready for their shoot.

Credits
Clothes: April by Kunbi
Accessories: Diva House of Accessories
Make-Up: Zaron
Photography: Litehouse Photography

The post Love, Fame, Style & Life! Nigerian TV Stars Oreka Godis & Yvonne Ekwere Cover Urban Royale Magazine’s 2nd Edition appeared first on BellaNaija - Nigeria breaking & top news to the World 24/7. Read Today.

In 2011, our beloved BellaNaija.com turned 5! It was a landmark anniversary and we decided to do something special that would resonate for years to come.

The team got thinking, and we decided to involve a talented group of recently emerging fashion brands – Obsidian, April by Kunbi, Toju Foyeh, Ejiro Amos Tafiri, Phunk Afrique, House of Nwocha, Meena and Akpos Okudu to help tell the BellaNaija story.

There are two major angles to the BN story; the first looks into the life of a young Nigerian student in Canada who observes a lack of home-grown content for Nigerians in Diaspora and decides to fill the gap. The other, focuses on the thousands of people who pay us a cherished visit daily, whom we attempt to entertain, enlighten, foster their engagement and connect with through our genuine love for “Naija”.

The designers were given the creative licence to come up with their representations of BellaNaija.com, “What comes to mind when you think BellaNaija?” I remember asking a few to spur their depictions towards the right direction.

I received each design with a twinkle in my eye; the designers demonstrated how with a common inspiration a range of expressions can emerge. All were unique, greatly different from the other, yet astutely captured the BellaNaija spirit in one descriptive form or the other.

“I see BellaNaija as a young, exciting, refreshing and strong brand. It is the first among its equals – it is practically royalty! We created this piece to reflect these qualities” said Ejiro Amos Tafiri.

Speaking on her design, Akpos Okudu said, “When I think of BellaNaija, I think of youth and exuberance. I think of the joy of life, particularly Nigerian life. It’s about the goodness in life and all things positive. These themes align perfectly with my design”.

The designs were one piece to the puzzle, there was still a shoot to organise, plus all the elements that go with it (Hair, Make-up, Photographer, Stylist & Model). In light of this, we put together a team of creatives whom we thoroughly believed would give us the results we wanted – A Great Campaign!

We got a stellar team on board: Stylist – Ezinne Chinkata; Make-Up connoisseur – Banke Meshida- Lawal; Photographer – Moussa Moussa; Hair Stylist – Ola Garuba; Model – Dorothy Chizoba Alieze of BETH Models;  and yours’ truly Ijeoma Ndekwu (assisted by Nkechi Eze) was the Creative Director ensuring that in all the creativity the BN voice remained as relayed by the designers.

BN Founder, Uche Pedro wanted to celebrate the inspiring journey through an Ad Campaign that showcased the individual elements that constitute BN. In 2012, in collaboration with Copy & Art Director – Osione Itegboje and Project Manager Dammie Amolegbe; we took the photos from our photoshoot and created an ad campaign that we are so excited to share with you.

What was important for us in creating our Ad Campaign was that, we wanted to deplete BellaNaija of our own meanings and associations. The way an idea is conceived and perceived by its creator is not necessarily the way it is received, and rather than focus on our perceptions, we wanted the Ad Campaign to reflect our readers, our stakeholders’ perspectives on BellaNaija.com.

I have always thought of BellaNaija.com as a mixed bag of treats with each treat as delightful as the next. Our readers visit BN for a variety of reasons; to get the red carpet scoop on an event, to be inspired by what a fellow Nigerian is doing with his/her life, to get tips for their wedding , to be updated with current news, to be entertained by our readers comments (LOL) the list goes on… The designers’ depictions capture the BN variety, the distinct partitions comprised in one huge vision.

The BellaNaija.com experience is not contained in a “totality”, it is not restricted to engaging with all its individual elements; it is essentially embedded in every variety the site offers. In that way, with every visit, irrespective of the reason behind that visit, you are locked in the BN experience.

The Ad Campaign adequately captures the unique yet unequivocally whole BN experience. I believe it was a job well done! Do you? Please share you thoughts.

You can check out our ad campaign in our partner magazines – Style Mania Magazine, Exquisite Magazine, TW Magazine, Red Sheet Magazine, Motherhood In-Style Magazine and many others.

This is dedicated to YOU! Our BN family – Thanks for all the love, thanks for the comments, thanks for clicking everyday!

The post Your Exclusive Look at Our First-Ever BellaNaija Ad Campaign! appeared first on BellaNaija - Nigeria breaking & top news to the World 24/7. Read Today.

Red carpet favorite, that’s what we think of when we hear the name April by Kunbi. We can’t talk about the label without mentioning the buzzworthy style moments the brand has created for BN Red Carpet faves including Oreka Godis, Mo’Cheddah, Gbemi Olateru-Olagbegi and the label’s Creative Director, Olakunbi Oyelese.

Rather than presenting a new collection, this lookbook showcases a selection of April by Kunbi’s party, red carpet and wedding picks. Olakunbi tells BellaNaijaStyle, “The Fun, Flirty and Girly Collective by April By Kunbi presents a wide range of highly versatile and wearable pieces. The collective features beautifully crafted dresses, peplum jackets, skirts and pants using prints and fabrics such as chiffon, raw silk and lots of shiny sequined fabric the brand is well known for. April By Kunbi will be unveiling a new and exciting collection at the 2012 edition of Music Meets Runway (MMR 2012). Watch this space for more details!“

Photographer: Moussa Moussa
Models:  Delphine Okobah & Bunmi Ojo
Make-up: Remi for Sleek
Styling: Olakunbi Oyelese
Accessories: April By Kunbi store

Visit the April by Kunbi retail space
Davida Plaza,
31A Admiralty Way,
Lekki Phase 1,
Lagos

The post Something Special for the Girls! Nigerian Fashion Label April By Kunbi presents the “Fun, Flirty & Girly Collective” appeared first on BellaNaija - Nigeria breaking & top news to the World 24/7. Read Today.

On Monday 24th December 2012, the 2012 edition of Music Meets Runway, will take place at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos in style. Just before the event, the organizers have released the names of the 9 designers who will showcase their most creative pieces on the D-Day.

According to the rep, the 10th designer showcase will come from one of Nigeria’s established design labels, who will be headlining the runway – the name will officially be released closer to the date.

Meet the 9 Designers showcasing at the 2012 Music Meets Runway Event

Tolani Nkili Onajide of NKILI
NKILI, meaning “Seeing Beautiful Things”, is a women’s luxury shirt-making brand focused on bringing light to the traditionally neglected yet single most important garment in a wardrobe, the shirt. Each piece goes on a journey, from design and print to production, nurtured by the highly skilled production team in Scotland. American celebrity, Angela Simmons has been spotted wearing the NKILI Tattoo Shirt and British singer, Lianne La Havas performed in the black NKILI butterfly shirt on her world tour.
Creative Director, Tolani Nkili Onajide was raised in Lagos, London and Oxford. She studied Architecture at the Architectural Association School or Architecture, London and University of Dundee School of Architecture, Scotland. She won awards, investments and grants for NKILI from business organisations; Prince’s Scottish Youth Business Trust, Starter for 6 and University of Dundee Enterprise Gym. Her design aesthetic is hugely influenced by the style of minimalist Architect Ludwig Mies Van Der Rohe and deconstructivist Architect Zaha Hadid.

For more information, log on to www.nkili.com

Dumebi Iyamah of Andrea Iyamah
19 year old Dumebi Iyamah is the founder and designer of the Andrea Iyamah brand founded in March 2011. Acknowledging her talent at an early stage of 12 years old, the designer developed tailoring skills acquired through lessons that assisted her in completing the first few creations of the Andrea Iyamah brand.
Studying in McMaster University in Canada, the designer juggles between her passion and education, setting time out for school and also running the Andrea Iyamah brand. Inspired by a diverse range of ideas, Dumebi Iyamah seeks to exhibit her creativity, from the sketching stage to the delicate end details of the production process of every piece.

For more information, log on to www.andreaiyamah.com

Olakunbi Oyelese of April By Kunbi
April By Kunbi is the brain-child of Olakunbi Oyelese, a graduate of the renowned Fashion Institute of Technology in New York. Founded in the spring of 2010 and inspired by the month of April – the start of the Spring season, April by Kunbi has been built on the philosophies of newness, freshness and colour.
April By Kunbi is a fashion label that specialises in couture and ready to wear fashion for women who place a premium on the principles of fashion, fit and functionality. With an ever growing portfolio of prêt-a-porter and custom made fashion items, April By Kunbi aims to be a one stop source and a lifestyle brand for everything from wedding gowns, bridesmaid dresses, evening and cocktail dresses to casual/active wear, sleepwear, fashion accessories and footwear.

For more information, log on to www.aprilbykunbi.com

Anthonia Yetunde Alabi – Sasha P of Eclectic By Sasha
Eclectic By Sasha is a Nigerian retail brand that seeks to provide the allure of high street fashion at affordable prices to the upwardly mobile woman who is not afraid to stand out in a crowd.
Created by Anthonia Yetunde Alabi popularly known as Sasha, the award winning First Lady Of African Hip Hop began her foray into fashion as a bespoke designer in 2004, With an ever growing client base her dream to create Nigerian high street was born in December 2011 at L’Espace where her sample collection was met with resounding success, Championing the cause to provide readily available female fashion, other services include bespoke tailoring and wardrobe styling.

For more information, log on to www.eclecticbysasha.com

Toyin Lawani of Elegante by TiannahStyling
Toyin Lawani is a serial entrepreneur, a graduate from the University of Lagos and now the CEO of Tiannah’s Place and also the creative director of TiannahStyling her umbrella for her styling and designing endeavors.
Elegante by TiannahStyling is a clothing line that was launched on the 1st of March 2012 at the Civic Centre, Lagos. Her designs carry a modern vintage touch which can be made to order or are ready to wear. The lines target market covers females of all ages but especially those who are 21-45.
For more information, log on to www.tiannahstyling.com

Ewemade Erhabor-Emokpae of Shakara Couture
Founded in 2004, the Shakara Couture Label is a family-run business with a design team led by the creative director Ewemade Erhabor-Emokpae.
On attainment of her Law degree from the University of Lagos, she sought to follow her passion and attended the London College of Fashion and Central Saint Martins to be professionally trained in millinery, dress-making, fashion illustration and personal styling.
The label is recognized for being heavily influenced by vintage glamour. The style of the house is inspired by the timeless elegance and fashion of the 1920s to the 1950s; a time where flattery of the female form was celebrated as the focal point of design. It is a fusion of African and Western vintage fashion using African tribal print, tie and dye, Lace, Embroidery and beadwork.

For more information, log on to www.ShakaraCouture.com

Fashola Olayinka of MOOFA
Fashola Olayinka is a graduate of Sociology from Olabisi Onabanjo University and the creative director of MOOFA. The label is characterised as being classic with a twist for today’s modern woman who love bold, contemporary and edgy pieces that provide directional styling for her wardrobe.
These trans-seasonal pieces are timeless and multi-functional with a style and cut that always Flatter the feminine silhouette.
For more information, e-mail askmoofa@gmail.com

Pade Bowler of David Bowler
David Bowler has an authentic African heritage with its unique style that expresses new forms of elegance, presenting itself as a modern classicism, based on superior sartorial content and creativity.
The label is distinguished by the multi-category competency of womenswear, menswear, apparel and childrenswear – with innovative outerwear as the foundation.
Through a series of licensing agreements, it will also produce and distribute eyewear, fragrances, accessories, bags and luggage.
For more information, log on to www.David-Bowler.com

Hakeem Balogun of Kimono Kollection
Kimono Kollection is the brain-child of a fashion guru Hakeem Balogun. Hakeem’s passion for fashion was bred during his university years in the United Kingdom.
As a student, he schooled himself in the vision of the craftsmen at Saville Row as well as keeping a sharp eye on the edgy East London fashion scene. A combination of both disciplines meant he rapidly became renowned for his own unique personal style.
With two years experience in styling and design training in London, Hakeem moved back to Nigeria. Today, Kimono Kollection is a label cultivated to cater to the needs of the modern man. Whilst the structured tailoring adheres to the principles of a bygone age, the brands appeal is to the diverse, multi lifestyle of the modern day gent.
For more information, log on to www.kimonokollection.com

You can check out all the performances, runway, red carpet and video highlights from MMR 2011 on the official website – www.MusicMeetsRunway.com | Buy your tickets for the 2012 edition on www.MusicMeetsRunway.com/Register1/Tickets

For tickets and tables, e-mail tickets@musicmeetsrunway.com
For sponsorship, e-mail sponsorship@musicmeetsrunway.com
For all press and media inquiries, e-mail press@musicmeetsrunway.com

To view photos and video from the model casting, click here
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The post The 2012 Edition of Music Meets Runway to hold on Monday 24th December 2012 in Lagos | Meet the 9 Designers Showcasing their Creative Pieces on the MMR Stage appeared first on BellaNaija - Nigeria breaking & top news to the World 24/7. Read Today.

Move over MET Gala, the Y! Magazine Annual Black Ball is set to be fashion fabulousity at its best!

Get your ball gowns and suits ready for the inaugural Y! Magazine Annual Black Ball taking place this Sunday in grand style at the Landmark Events Centre, Lagos.

Hosted by MI Abaga and 3LiveChicks co-presenters, Tosyn Bucknor and Oreka Godis and Anita Isedeh, the black ball is a celebration of another eventful year for young trendsetters across the country.

Just before the event, BellaNaija Style is giving you the scoop on what your favourite stars will be wearing to the ball.
Nse Ikpe Etim in House of Nwocha – After dazzling in one of the label’s pieces at the 2012 African Movie Academy Awards, the Phone Swap star, will once again wear the label’s dress. Speaking on her choice, Nse says “The brand definitely understands that a woman wants to feel sexy and classy at the same time, and they pull it off every time.”

Ohimai Atafo in MAI – Have you ever wondered what it feels like being a designer and having access to unlimited number of outfits? Well, Nigerian designer, Ohimai Atafo sure knows. Wearing one of his creations, he speaks on what to expect from the ball, “It’s a masked ball, and for the elegant a time to push the envelope. Stylish ball gowns, and sharp formal suits/tuxedos will fill the red carpet.”

Rita Dominic in Moofa – So who’s outfit will one of Nigeria’s most celebrated actresses wear? It’s Moofa. On her choice for the design label, Rita says “They are amazing and can truly amazing when it comes to classic silhouettes that flatter a woman’s body. I can’t wait to show off on the black carpet!”

According to a source, Ohimai Atafo will select the King and Queen of the black ball from the black carpet. Speaking to BN on the event, Adebola Williams, the Managing Editor of Y! Magazine says “Expect to see some of Nigeria’s best loved designers. Bridget Awosika, Toju Foyeh, April by Kunbi, Jewel by Lisa, Kinabuti, Zizi Cardow, Marayah O, Purple, Akpos Okudo, Tiannah’s Styling, Wana Sambo and more. This should be fun”

Also at the event, the re-modelled Y! Magazine will be presented to the public – with the first-of-its-kind cover identity as well as content re-energised for its audience. The annual Y! Best Dressed List, which will profile 20 young celebrities who ho define Nigeria’s style zeitgeist, will be unveiled.

Keep refreshing BellaNaija.com for all exclusive photos. This event is strictly by invitation.

Y! Magazine Black Ball
Date: Sunday 16th December 2012
Time
Arrival & Red Carpet Photos: 5:45 PM
Cocktails: 6 PM
Ball Begins: 6:30 PM
Ball Ends: 9 PM
Venue: Crystal Ballroom, Landmark Events Centre, Oniru, Victoria Island, Lagos
Dress Code: Sophisticated and Elegant – Ladies: Dresses | Gents: Suits & Bow Ties
Colour: Black

*****
This event is supported by BellaNaija, BlackBerry, Cool FM, 360 Nobs

The post Rita Dominic in Moofa, MI Abaga in OUCH, Nse Ikpe-Etim in House of Nwocha, Mai Atafo in MAI – Who will you Wear to the Y! Magazine Black Ball This Sunday appeared first on BellaNaija - Nigeria breaking & top news to the World 24/7. Read Today.