Fashion-forward Lioness continues to re-imagine style

When it comes to the intersection of music and fashion, Namibian rapper Lioness effortlessly commands attention with her bold and eclectic style. With a journey that began in high school and influenced by her fashion-savvy mother, Lioness has evolved into a fashion icon in her own right. Her unique style reflects her confidence, creativity and unapologetic embrace of self-expression.

Lioness discovered her love for fashion during high school when she had the opportunity to dress up on civvies day. This was when she realised the transformative power of clothing and how it allowed her to express herself. Inspired by her late mother’s impeccable style, Lioness recognised the importance of looking good and making a lasting impression. She started playing around with different looks and over time took enough fashion risks to become one of Namibia’s best-dressed personalities.

The best style tip Lioness received from her mother was to “never leave the house looking like your problems”. This meant avoiding house gowns and hair rollers while out and about. This advice helped Lioness to cultivate a fashion sense that exudes confidence and sophistication.

Over the years, Lioness’ style has undergone a fascinating evolution. From a goth stage to a Barbie-inspired phase in her younger years, she experimented with various aesthetics before finding her signature style.

Today, Lioness describes her style as sexy, chic, mysterious and sophisticated. Her fashion choices reflect her inner confidence and her desire to make a statement wherever she goes.

INFLUENCING NAMIBIAN FASHION CULTURE

When the perfectly styled music video for her 2017 breakout hit “Dreams” was released, it was evident that a cultural shift had occurred. The rapper capitalised on the song’s popularity by staying true to it and carefully crafting a public image that fit her newfound star status.

By 2019, Lioness was confident enough as an emerging fashion influencer to work on her first fashion line, a collaboration with designer Simeone Johannes. “The CilQ x SynEDGY capsule collection,” Lioness said at the time of its release, “is meant to give women, men, trans and queer individuals a chance to feel sexy and luxurious at an affordable rate.”

In 2020, she teamed up with another designer, Foxy Ginnah, to create the Lioness x Foxxy collaborative fashion line. At the time, the designer told The Namibian newspaper that working with the rapper was “such a breeze”, alluding to Lioness’ admirable work ethic.

Over the years, Lioness has continued to draw on the talents of other creatives to keep her fashion game elevated and current. These include her stylist, Penehafo Vaeta, fashion designer Melisa Poulton and fashion stylist Nahenda Matheus.

Lioness acknowledges the importance of collaboration and having a stylist in her journey to success. She recognises that working together is crucial to gaining recognition beyond her home country and making a name for herself internationally. By partnering with talented stylists, Lioness has amplified her unique style to create fashion moments that captivate audiences.

ON MOTHERHOOD, POWER COUPLE DRESSING AND STYLE EVOLUTION

Becoming a mom has not changed Lioness’ wardrobe much. She still embraces her favourite crop tops and miniskirts, but has bid farewell to bodycon dresses and anything with holes. “Unless it’s for a creative project like a music video,” she quips. She does admit that motherhood has brought a new sense of responsibility to her fashion choices, but she continues to showcase her style with a touch of elegance and sensuality.

When it comes to her husband, Lioness takes on a supportive role rather than styling him, but he usually seeks her fashion advice, appreciating her keen eye for style. You are unlikely to catch them in matchy-matchy outfits as the power couple prefers to consult each other to ensure they complement rather than mimic each other’s looks.

On what her most prized wardrobe item is, Lioness says it is undoubtedly her wig collection. She loves how the collection allows her to experiment with different hairstyles, adding a layer of personality to her overall look. And while she appreciates her designer bags, Lioness remains grounded, emphasising that clothes are just clothes and material possessions do not define her.

Not only a rapper but a medical doctor by profession, Lioness continues to captivate fans with her lyrical prowess, stellar work ethic and remarkable fashion choices. From high school dressup days to becoming a style icon, she has embraced fashion as a means of self-expression. With her sexy, chic, mysterious and sophisticated style, Lioness fearlessly sets trends and solidifies her place in the fashion and music industry, inspiring others to embrace their personal style journey.

Rukee Kaakunga

Photography Credit: DipPhotos; Shot by Alpo for Keen Studios