Yesterday was the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA), an award show dedicated to rewarding hard work and talent in the movie industry.
I watched some part of the show, at least long enough to see jaw-dropping red carpet looks by celebrities.
Most interesting is the fact that a lot of them were styled by Nigerian fashion designers, and as Bellafricana is a lover of the creative and African, I couldn’t help but share some looks wit you.
Here’s bringing you some of the most creative looks on the red carpet, all styled by Nigerian Fashion designers.
1. Talk show host and actress, Nancy Isime in an Xtrabrideslagos (XBL) masterpiece
2. Actress, film maker and Entrepreneur, Mercy Aigbe in a stunning gown by Luminee
3. Actress, Venita Akpofure in Trishocouture
4. Actress, Sharon Ooja in Gorgeous piece by Somobysomo
5. Actress and Filmmaker, Adunni Ade in Luminee
6. Actress, Idinma Okojie in breathtaking piece by Mazelle studios
7. Actor, Elozonam in T.I Nathan
8. Content creator and Infuencer Denola Grey in Mazelle studios
9. Influencer and Entrepreneur Mike Edwards in David Wej
There you have it. What other creative style by Indigenous brands did we miss out? Kindly leave a comment below!
As far as footwears are concerned, boots always seem to get more work done than regular shoes. While shoes are busy arguing semantics in a boardroom, boots are out in the garage actually doing work.
Boots are relatively versatile, as they can suit both casual and formal styles and in addition to comfort, they also provide good support for the feet.
Over the years, a few things have been found to be the true points of attraction to quality boots – Craftsmanship, how long these brands have been making products, overall rebellion against cheap widely popular footwear that has no soul, no longevity, and no visual appeal.
Unfortunately, boot lovers have to resort to seeking for renown brands abroad and have to wait out long periods of time, and also pay outrageous shipping fees before these products can be delivered in their own country.
BootsbyMetal is a boots brand that not only prides in the fact that it is fast becoming the trademark for quality boots over the years, but also in the fact that it is made in Nigeria.
BootsbyMetal boasts of world class quality products and knows exactly what to consider when producing for all classes of customers.
All Sizes
One of the major concerns for people with under and beyond average-sized feet when considering boots is if their sizes are currently in stock. Nobody wants to get a pair of kicks that lacks or shoots a couple of inches because they can’t readily find their size. All sizes can be purchased readily from any of the retail stores and in very rare cases where you want something even more fitted and streamlined, you could opt for the Custom Build option.
Comfortable insoles
The insole is the inner part of the shoe that touches the sole of the foot. A good insole supports each part of the foot but remains flexible and adapts to the foot’s movement.
You can test for comfortable insoles by walking around, standing on the tip of your toes to see if your toes have enough space to stretch out without being pushed to the tip and top of the shoe.
These boots have been specially patterned to grip the heel just right so you can walk comfortably.
Flexibility
The flexibility of the outside and top of the boot are important, as those parts also affect comfort. Quality Boots must be flexible enough to bend slightly but not so much as to bend in half. Also, there is support for the arch section of the boots which not only enhances fluid movement but also helps maintain balance as well.
Quality Materials to suit your Lifestyle
These locally made boots are made from different materials such as Leather, from full-grain to nubuck, animal skin, or synthetic fabrics such as cordura, which are resistant to abrasions.
Leather boots soften and mold to your feet as you use them, but they require extra care to keep the leather from cracking.
Meanwhile, synthetic material is easier to maintain but usually lacks the classic elegance leather boots offer.
BootsbyMetal offers a wide range of options to suit your lifestyle and your willingness to look after the material.
WHY GO METAL?
As we proceed further into the year, some may choose to refresh their style, including giving boots a try and others may choose to try out a new brand. Here are some good reasons to get yourself a pair of Metal boots:
• Top Notch Quality
• Affordability
• Easy purchase with local currency
• Custom Build Services
• Wide range of choices
• No time delays in purchase and delivery
If you’re African, (Nigerian especially) then the word “Adire” is a familiar name to you. In this interview, we had a conversation with a Bellafricana Verified Member, Sisi Aladire, whose Brand has long become a Household name in the world of Adire.
Meet Ms Olubunmi Davies of Sisi Aladire Enterprises (SAE).
Read on to learn about how the amazing Sisi Aladire Enterprises was born, goals for the nearest future, and many more.
Please introduce yourself
I am S. M. Olubunmi Davies (Ms), a retired Architect and the founder/Chief Executive Officer of Sisi Aladire Enterprises(SAE). As a daughter of a diplomat, I went to school in 5 countries.
I actually wanted to be a broadcaster, but a friend of my father, told me to study Architecture. I am a member of Neca’s Network of Entrepreneurial Women (NNEW), an organization that has taught me a lot about being an entrepreneur.
I live and work in Lagos.
Tell us about your work. How did Sisi Aladire Enterprises start?
I started Sisi Aladire Enterprises about 30 years ago.
I really do not remember why I started but I remember talking to late Mrs Okuboyejo (Betti-O) about buying and selling Adire fabrics. I spent a weekend in her house, creating different patterns on plain fabrics. I would go to Abeokuta to buy some Adire to sell to family and friends.
When Betti-O found out the quantity of Adire I was going to buy in Abeokuta, she told me to buy at Tejuosho market because the difference in price was little. The first product made by SAE, is the Yemisi bag, a tote bag which was an improved version of an Ankara bag, given to me by Ms Yemisi Ransome-Kuti.
I got tailors to make outfits for me with Adire which people liked. Orders were made and SAE started making ready to wear garments.
Picture of the Yemisi Bag, as held by Prof. Judith Byfields
How did you come about the name and what does it mean?
I liked Aladire, but there was already a business with that name, so I added “Sisi” to the “Aladire”.
What is your niche and how did you know it was a market to get into?
To be truthful, I did not know that there was a niche in the market. I liked the idea of selling Adire and got started.
In the 1980s, I do not believe most people did market research before starting a business.
Where do you get the inspiration for your products?
Initially, I made outfits or garments that I liked, but after some time, people asked for what they wanted.
At times, I adapt styles that I see on people or in magazines.
Can you remember one of the first products you made?
Like I said Earlier, the first product was the tote bag named after Ms Yemisi Ransome-Kuti. Although it has been modified over the years, it is still a popular product of SAE.
What are some of the challenges you face in your business?
I did not do any research before I started my business, because I did not know I was suppose to do so, therefore, issues like funding and structure were not considered at the beginning.
Now, I am working with some consultants on creating a structure for the business.
Tailors, especially good ones are not easy to get. Work ethics is also an issue with tailors.
Do you have any regrets venturing into this line of business?
No, I do not have any regret venturing into this business. Although I wish I knew some of the things I know now when I started.
What is your most popular product?
It is difficult to say. At times, I get orders for kaftans, wrap round skirts, tops or bags. However, I believe I have sold more tote bags than any other product.
To what extent do you draw upon your Nigerian (African) heritage for your work?
Adire is a product of a traditional industry, but we are adapting it to suit contemporary life style.
What are some of your short term and long term goals, both in your business and life in general?
My short term goal for SAE, is to make it very successful, financially, while making Adire fabric, the preferred fabric of choice.
The long term goal, is to have a massive factory with about 10 thousand workers, producing garments, bags, accessories and many other products with Adire fabrics.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
Most people are usually surprised when I tell them that I am an Architect.
What profession would you be in if you weren’t in this Industry?
I think I will like to be a painter.
If you could give one piece of advice to anyone who wants to start their own business in your industry, what would it be?
Anyone who wants to start a business, any business, must be steadfast, have a positive mindset and be ready for setbacks.
Connect with Ms Buunmi Davies on Instagram @sisialadire. Otherwise, you can reach her on +2348023343453
Follow us on Instagram @bell_africana for more amazing creative indigenous brands, and to fine out more about the beauty of Africa.
Introducing the Ethnik by Tunde Owolabi UTU Bag Collection😍. UTU is a Swahili concept of humanity, goodness, sharing, caring and togetherness.
As human beings, we cannot live in isolation (“I am who I am because of who we are”- Ubuntu).
As Africans, we are all connected, by continent, race, skin, even our diversity.. UTU includes the entire humanity, if we are all good to each other, the world will be a better place. No one’s an island, we need each other to survive.
Over the years, Ethnik by Tunde Owolabi has been known to create its pieces from inspiration with different cultures. After 2 years of research and intrigue by the MAASAI Culture, they have created one of a kind pieces which has brought together an intricate part of the MAASAI culture and the YORUBA culture.
The women worked with their designs and made them extra special with their expertise. Together, they created beautiful timeless pieces, THE UTU COLLECTION.
Detail Africa is the newest addition to the Bellafricana Verified Family, and I am very excited to be introducing this amazing brand to you. Keep reading to meet the Founder, Seromume Ikogho, as he speaks with Jessica of Bellafricana.
Please introduce yourself and your background.
My mane is Seromume Ikogho. I studied accounting at Covenant University. I am a chartered accountant and business consultant, with over three years’ business consulting experience serving small and medium businesses as well as multinationals.
Tell us about your work. How did Detail Africa start?
I observed the unpopularity of men carrying proper leather work bags when I got a personal work bag from Dubai about three years ago. It made me think that there was a gap in the market for the product, so I went around to the market and noticed that quality men’s leather bags were either great quality but too expensive or low quality and affordable.
I wanted to bridge this gap and put Africa on the global scale in terms of fashion, especially regarding men’s leather bags and other leather accessories. Since commencement of production in 2017, we have increased our product lines from work and travel bags to include wallets, pouches, portfolios and other leather accessories.
How did you come about the name and what does it mean?
I have always been very particular about attention to detail. It’s a guiding principle I follow in all my work. I wanted to build a brand that would be an extension of my personality, hence I came up with the name ‘Detail’.
Furthermore, I have always seen Africa as my primary market and not Nigeria. So, I decided to include that in the brand name to remind us of our ideals, embrace diversity and inclusion, and drive us to conquer the continent.
What is your niche and how did you know it was a market to get into?
Our niche is men’s leather bags. As mentioned earlier, I observed the unpopularity of men carrying proper leather work bags when I got a personal work bag from Dubai about three years ago. It made me think that there was a gap in the market for the product, so I went around to the market and noticed that quality men’s leather bags were either great quality but too expensive or low quality and affordable. I wanted to bridge this gap and put Africa on the global scale in terms of fashion, especially regarding men’s leather bags and other leather accessories.
Where do you get the inspiration for your products?
I constantly try to understand the lifestyle of our target market. I take time to talk to people in order to know what they need in a bag and what inspires them. I’m also a big fan of western brands such as Carl Friedrik and Frank Clegg.
Can you remember one of the first products you made? What makes it memorable?
Yes, I remember the first product we made. It was the Naju briefcase. It is memorable because it was named after my dad. He constantly encourages and inspires me to do better and be better.
What are some of the challenges you face in your business?
The journey has been exciting and depressing at the same time. Everyday has been a new opportunity to learn and improve. Entrepreneurship is difficult but entrepreneurship in Nigeria is even more difficult because of the infrastructural deficit. It is a herculean task trying to maintain great brand reputation when the surrounding environment is not an enabling one and many artisans are on survival mode. However, we have been able to learn on the job and come out on top.
Do you have any regrets venturing into this line of business?
Not at all.
What is your most popular product?
Our Detail Signature Bag.
To what extent do you draw upon your Nigerian (African) heritage for your work?
We promote Africa through our ideals and branding and also have plans to release a new collection before summer 2020 where we will infuse a lot of African designs, prints and accessories.
What are some of your short term and long term goals, both in your business and life in general?
Our medium term vision is to establish presence in at least four countries in Africa, as well as three countries outside Africa, and also, invest in backward integration/leather tanning by 2025. Our long term vision is to significantly change the narrative surrounding the Nigeria leather industry and its value chain on a continental and global level.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
I used to rap in university lol
What profession would you be in if you weren’t in this Industry?
Management consulting
If you could give one piece of advice to anyone who wants to start their own business in your industry, what would it be?
Don’t start ‘small’, start ‘lean’
And finally, please share images of some of your work and tell us a little about each product.
The Tourman Travel bag: Simple yet stylish, the tourman is designed for a casual getaway or a business trip. Featuring a detachable strap, single main compartment and extra frontal compartment for smaller items.
The backpack: Designed for the contemporary professional, the backpack perfectly fits a laptop up to 14inches, especially for the individuals that don’t like to carry a typical business bag.
The Fome Briefcase: As people of diversity and inclusion, the female briefcase is our pioneer product that seeks to support the contemporary woman in her journey towards greater success.
And that is it from here, for more details about the brand, check out their listing page here.
Every woman I know loves to look good and I am sure you do too and even as a man, you want the women in your life to look good. Which is why today, I bring you some bags from Morin O that are sure to complement your outfit. Regardless of the event, there is a bag for you. Still don’t believe? Keep reading to see what I am talking about.
Are you going for;
An official event/meeting?
Imagine stepping into your next board room meeting with a bag from Morin O, everyone would be staring in admiration.
Outing With Friends;
When having a drink or catching up with friends, there is always a need to be comfortable, simple yet classy. You can achieve this effortlessly with a bag from Morin O.
Dinner Date;
There are those days when it a dinner date with friend, family or with the special one, you definitely want to look your best. On those days, Morin O bag is a must have.
Vacation/Stay-cation;
Are you looking to have some fun in a quiet island? You probably don’t want any thing big or disturbing, just an easy breezy bag. I understand that need and I only know what would serve that purpose. See the picture below and tell me if you don’t allow agree.
After all these mentioned above, I already feel like you should have the bag you are searching for. But so I am not making a mistake and you still haven’t found what you are looking for, below are more bags from Morin O;
At this point, I feel like you don’t have any other reason not to have seen a bag to buy today.
To get your Morin O bags;
Visit store Address: Shop F23, First Floor, Centro Mall, Block 69 Plot 15 Admiralty Way, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos
The African culture is rich, strong, colorful, diverse and powerful. Mimiremi textiles new collection of prints titled ‘OTU’, which means ‘1’(ONE) in Igbo language has its strength both in the pattern and the symbolic nature of the number one.
Speaking about the new collection, Aderonke Jaiyeola, founder of Mimiremi Textiles said, “I remember vividly that cool Saturday afternoon in 2012, light drizzle of rain dropping on me and the table in front of me as I struggled to print 2 yards of fabrics in front of the house using the screen printing method. Discouraged by the stress of the work and the imperfect print I made, I ventured into other things.
For many years I’ve had the passion to help designers create unique Custom made designs for their brand without stress. Earlier in the year, I was determined to start printing our fabrics in Nigeria. Despite big hurdles, disappointments and sleepless nights, I am happy to finally present our first collection of hand printed fabrics to my dear friends and colleagues…’ OTU (NO 1)”.
The Otu Collection From Mimiremi Textiles
Aderonke was also delighted to let us know that now;
All can now print exclusive patterns and fabrics from Mimiremi locally without travelling over land and seas.
The brand now help fashion designers create awesome prints they’ve been dreaming of without paying high shipping/custom duty.
By producing locally, Mimiremi is able to achieve the following goals in line with the United Nations Sustainable development goals, They support Goal 1 (NO poverty), Goal 8 (Decent work and economic growth), Goal 9 (Industry and Economic growth) and Goal 10 (Reduced inequalities).
The brand can now proudly print ‘Made in Nigeria’ on their products.
You can be sure of having unending collection of fresh prints from their studio.
At Mimiremi Textiles, it is not just about fabrics, It’s about the rich African story that is told through the prints.
With the creative industry in Nigeria gaining unprecedented international exposure, the industry has been seen as an alternative to the nation’s dwindling oil fortunes.
One part of the creative industry is fashion and their raw material is textiles (fabrics), with the average Nigerians love for fashion and asoebi, if Nigeria can produce their own fabrics ( which Mimiremi is now doing), coupled with the design talent, the sky will not be the limit for the industry.
As a closing remark she said, ” as we launch our first collection of fabrics hand printed in Nigeria ‘OTU’, I look forward to the day when other African countries will begin to depend on Nigeria for their supply of fabrics.”
Ethnik by Tunde Owolabi releases a new collection ‘The EYO collection’. This collection as the name implies is inspired by ‘EYO’, a traditional icon in Lagos, Nigeria.
The Eyo festival is a significant festival unique to the Yoruba people from Lagos, Nigeria. The festival is celebrated on LAGOS island the traditional home of Lagosians with impressive pageantry and some rituals.
The Eyo masquerades represent spirits of ancestors hence the reason the festival is held in honor of a chief, a dead Oba or an elder from a ruling family or during the coronation of a new Oba.
The masquerade is robed with white fabric from head to toe with a hat called “Akete” and carries a stick called the “Opambata”. The color if the hat signifies the clan the Eyo belongs to.
Ethniks new collection “EYO” represents an important aspect of the Yoruba culture.
If you still think aso-oke is for the old and has no place in the modern space, you are missing. Worse, if you are thinking of creative gift ideas for loved ones and you didn’t think of Aso-oke inspired items, you ain’t in vogue.
I had a discussion with my friend some few days ago and she explained how Aso-oke was gradually taking over the fashion space.
As you would expect, I argued with her, because I didn’t have any aso-oke piece and I didn’t see the need to. Not until she mentioned some brands making waves with aso-oke.
As a ‘doubting Thomas’ that I am, I still didn’t believe her, so I went on to do some research myself.
And oh my, I admit to have been sleeping on this oh! Like how can I be a fashion enthusiast and still not have an Aso-oke piece? Unbelievable! In fact, since festivities are fast upon us all I want for this season are aso-oke inspired pieces.
Before you even ask what is special about Aso-oke, let’s go down to the history.
Aso-Oke is a short form of Aso Ilu Oke also known as Aso-Ofi meaning clothes from the up-country. It is the traditional wear of the Yoruba’s (the tribe of the southwest people in Nigeria, Africa). The Yoruba’s are the second largest tribe in Nigeria after the Northerners. Aso-Oke is a cloth that is worn on special occasions by the Yoruba’s usually for chieftancy, festivals, engagement, naming ceremony and other important events. To read more on its hisory, click here.
Do you see why Aso-oke is not just another fabric and having it in forms different from the normal is unique? And of course, would make a perfect gift item.
In other words, thinking of what to buy for friends, family etc, keep scrolling to see some aso-oke inspired items.
Probably for a footstool for the house, how about spicing the house up with an Aso-oke inspired footstool or send as a gift to the family house. This I bet you would get your mum and dad grinning. Ready to get this? Click here.
In the world today, almost everyone has an extra luggage they would be glad to have a backpack from you. Make it even special by getting them a backpack made with Aso-oke. Not only is it exclusive, it is also beautiful. To get this, click here.
I could not complete this without putting in something special for the ladies. And the perfect gift would be the Hadizah Bag made with aso-oke and leather. Have a special lady you would want to surprise? Then you should click here for more details.
Hold on guys, before you even say it, keep reading to see something for you.
This is a premium bespoke shoe made from Aso-oke by Moroks Xpression. This would definitely make for a great gift for friends and family. For more details, click here. You can also check out some other creative gifts for him here.
Are you convinced? That aso-oke is needed to complete your gift items.
While I go source for more, do well to check out these creative gift ideas.
Did you like this? Click here to read some other posts on the blog.
You can also keep up with our activities on social media on;
I believe you have heard the phrase ‘don’t judge a book by its cover’ and you probably believed it.
Well, that’s good but not in fashion. In the book of fashionistas, you must never be caught unfresh i.e not looking your best, because truth be told, everyone judges a book by it’s cover. Even you, lol!
Hold on, before you start thinking ‘Thank God I am not a fashionista’, allow me to remind you that no one is born fashionable but the desire to look good is within. At this point you are wondering the purpose of this long sermon, right? Ok, I will cut the chase.
I am here to give some fashion tips that will help you stand out at meetings, events, work, in fact, any where. Are you ready?
Organise Your Closet
Start from the beginning, by this I mean things you have in your closet, which include your dresses, shoes, accessories and the likes. Take a moment to go through everything you own, decide on those to keep, sell or give away and do so accordingly. By doing this, you take note of what you have, what you need and how to match them. Before you rush on to the next thing, make sure to keep your items where you can assess them easily, use racks, shelves, boxes etc.
Find A Good Designers
Making your own clothes saves you some extra cash and still have you looking dope! Of course I realise that you might not be a fashion designer and that is ok, but, you can get yourself a good designer, who you work with to create amazing designs that suit your body frame. Some designers that can help you achieve this include; Eyiyemi Olivia of EoNL and more.
Invest In Timeless Pieces
There will always be a new fashion item to get. That said, do not carried away with all this, rather invest in things that are timeless, which means, regardless of when you wear them, they remain relevant and are not seasonal. examples of timeless pieces are,
Don’t Forget Your Accessories
They might be little but they go a long way in transforming your entire look. Imagine dressing up for a meeting without your ear rings, the look on your face in that moment of realisation is enough to explain the strength of accessories. My point is, don’t forget to spice up your outfits no matter how simple with an accessory. Accessories vary, no need to limit yourself to just ear rings, here are few accessories to transform your look;
Flaunt Your Outfits
This is where I say, do not be afraid to rock and re-rock your outfits, that is what they where made for.
So, these are a few tips to help you stay on top of your fashion game, hope you find them useful.
Found them useful? Leave me a comment and let’s get talking.
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