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Tewa Onasanya, the founder and Editor-In-Chief of Exquisite magazine states; “The criteria for the ELOY Awards focuses on the character of the individual, her abilities, her achievements and how her work impacts the Nigerian society, through direct and indirect leadership, service, commitments, integrity and character.

We look forward to celebrating all nominees, winners and all women”.

To vote: text “ELOY” followed by “Nominee full name” to 35070 or vote online at www.exquisitemag.com

As well as the categories listed above, The ELOY Nomination board are calling on entries for the ELOY Recognition Awards tagged the “LADIES WHO INSPIRE AWARDS”. These are awards will be recognising individuals who have made a difference and impacted their industry and community.

I became a Fashion designer because I, simply put, I love to sow. My mum tailored as a hobby mostly for me, my brothers and dad. She also used to make those old school vitambaas for our couches (Seat Covers). I loved being immersed in the experience of fiddling with fabric that would eventually turn to something useful. I took over her manual machine much later and the rest as they say is history. She was my first “teacher” so to speak, what I know now is self-taught. My designs speak for themselves; they are just different. That has a lot to do with my creative process. I never plan, I roam around a lot on my free time looking for fabrics that “speak’’ to me. If I love it, I’ll buy it and go make something out of it then dash to Buoart for a photo shoot J I am always surrounded by creatives, performers and such like people which explains why most of my design have that “ special occasion” edge. I just can’t help myself.

What is your favorite part about being a fashion designer?

My favorite part is watching someone ooze joy, confidence and utter excitement whilst wearing my outfit. It gives me such euphoria; I live for it!

What is your inspiration for the designs you create?

Inspiration; objects around me. I could get into a mathree and see some wires hanging somewhere and boom. It happens randomly. Most times when something gets stuck in my mind, it almost certainly will serve as muse. Besides that I love listening to upbeat music whilst working. I think it helps me get lost in my own world.

What do you specialize in?

Ready to wear and occasional outfits for females. I do not, however, shy away from tailoring a few pieces here and there for the men but only on order. I make bags too, mostly clutch bags.

What’s your latest fashion design project?

I am currently designing looks for TVCs and talk shows. Will keep you posted once they are released. Last Friday was the first time showcasing since 2014 at brew bistro’s Fashion Fridays. Amazing models!

How do you balance creativity with commerce?

I had to learn to delegate. My cousin intervenes every now and then as my assistant. I also recently got a social media strategist who helps boost my online presence. Last but not last is my dad who is my financial advisor.

What favorite quote/mantra do you live by?

Tenda wema nenda zako.

Where do you see your brand in 5 years?

To have several physical locations beyond Nairobi that will foster product accessibility. In short, I want to grow towards my ultimate goal which is to open warehouses run in Kenya by Kenyans churning Achie Otigo merchandise for local and international sale.

Who inspires you the most in fashion? Anyone who stands out?

Locally, kaveke, Nick Ondu and Pat Mbela. Internationally: Alexander McQueen and Gareth Pugh

Email: [email protected] or call :0710 952 145.

The Pomp and Grandeur of AFWL 2016

AFWL 2016 came and concluded with its renown pomp and grandeur, showcasing 40 designers from across Africa and its Diaspora and over 50 exhibitors – delighting thousands of fashionistas, shoppers, as well as high profile dignitaries including Mrs Oludolapo Osinbajo – wife of the vice president of Nigeria, Yemi Osinbajo.

The brand triumphs against odds and remains the unmatched crowd-puller to…

Style Scenery – Fashion Beauty Lifestyle

Fashion scenery is a billion dollar industry as well as a cultural pillar and an influence to society. The Nigerian fashion world has matured to meet up with global standards and there is an immense cultural heritage to tap from and contribute to Lagos has established itself as an international fashion hub and earned a spot on the fashion calendar of the world. We believe Abuja also has the…

In addition, the word chic here is used to describe the amazing and modern appearance of the clothings. Therefore those who have good taste and know how to well dress are characterized as chic.

Noble and quality materials were used in this collection, including first choice wax (African print) from Senegal or Mali.

I will say this collection is indecent, 10 years in advance or shameless 5 years in advance. I prefer being ahead because the fashion world is in constant évolutions.

Visit the Wazal Online Shop

Find Ayissi aka JJ DU STYLE on social media

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

His brand “WAZAL” is a blend of “WAZA”, the name of a natural park in the extreme north of Cameroon and the letter “L” which stands for Lion, the Cameroonian symbol. The natural park symbolizes respect, while the lion symbolizes power.

WAZAL COUTURE fashion universe expresses more of casual wear in a constant search of innovations, new styles and creativity. In the mixture of many various colors, and various prints, he adds and blends other materials such as pure cotton, denim jean, wax, leather, fur, synthetic just to name a few.

Check out Ova Tété 2016/2017 Collection here

He went through a professional training in VANESSA RUIZ fashion school in Paris and he later on specialized in creating tuxedo jackets. The first was thus created in 2013 under the declination “Tete fly.”

In 2013, he was part of the guests of the Ambassador of Cameroon to Paris for the exhibition of the feast of the Cameroonian youth and the Fashion Night Lounge at the Elysee Palace in Paris, where he presented his three concepts: WazalRock, fly Tété and Africafutur. These concepts are based on criteria which since the beginning symbolized his career:

Daring, Respect and Creation. Wazal cuts and designs are impressive and modern; moreover it follows the latest trends today.

Visit the Wazal Online Shop

Find Ayissi aka JJ DU STYLE on social media

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Considered a fashion guru, Mustafa’s designs reflect the deeply embedded cultural heritage of Tanzanian society along with the avant-garde, couture and contemporary styles.

A medical Doctor by Profession, fashion designing began as a hobby in 1999, whereby one of his first creation was worn by Hoyce Temu who was crowned Miss Tanzania 1999 wearing his signature evening gown. Thus began the roller coaster ride that eventually led to the growth and creation of Tanzania Fashion Industry which can be duly accredited to the zeal and zest of Mustafa Hassanali.

Hassanali’s zest for fashion is not only limited at fostering his own creations and offering something new to his target audience, but he also believes in the enhancement of the Tanzanian Fashion Industry on the whole.

Mustafa has showcased in 31 cities across 21 Countries globally representing as Tanzania Fashion and Cultural ambassador. And for the first time, he will be showcasing in London on the Africa Fashion Week London platform. Mustafa’s work has been highly appreciated at the International level. He has worked alongside Naomi Campbell’s who has modeled for him, to various celebrities and high profile leaders who have adorned his couture.

Mustafa Hassanali was also appointed by the Minister for Information, Youth, Culture and Sports to be part of the steering committee to search for Tanzania National Attire. He also has been the only designer to have been invited by Tanzania Embassy in Sweden and Russia to celebrate Tanzania Mainland and The union of Tanganyika and Zanzibar 50th anniversary in 2011 and 2014 respectively.

What adds a unique dimension to Hassanali’s persona is his constant initiative in going out of his way, in supporting various charities such as “Breast Cancer Awareness” & “Violence against Women”. In Zanzibar he has supported the Zanzibar Mental Hospital. No wonder his medical background has resulted in the establishment of the brand “Fashion 4 Health”

Meme Bête Leather Handbags

Meme Bête is a St. Lucian design company by Taribba do Nascimento who began designing bags 5 years ago while working in Ethiopia.

The company specializes in leather handbags. Its signature look is African Print mixed with leather, however many other materials are used to create unique designs such as burlap, madras and Indian saris.

A lover of life and an avid traveller, do Nascimento marries…

Caesar Couture is known for its exquisite tailoring services and refined design silhouettes of tuxedos, patterned suits, single breasted and double-breasted suits as well as traditional clothing. It was established in the year 2000 by owner and designer, Esosa Ogedegbe. The label currently makes clothing for men, but has plans to diversify into female clothing in the near future.

The collections…

Rocking AFWL with Yemi Adale

We chose Yemi Alade as the brand ambassador for AFWL 2016 because of her talent and creativity, and her unreserved African originality.

Yemi Alade represents everything that Africa Fashion Week stands for. She is someone who embodies the true African woman.

She made her musical debut in 2005, but her music became widely popular after she won the Peak Talent Show in 2009.

The songstress has…