ALLURE 15052016

May 15, 2016

n o i h s a F e h T Edition

YOMI MAKUN, OKPA McCOY AGADA & KOLA KUDDUS - Defining Brands with Passion

15/05 Contents

4

15

e m a i l : a l l u r e fo r t h e wo rl d @ v a n g u a r d n g r. c o m

FASHION 4 5

2 Ways With the Pencil Skirt Do Khaki Right

PEOPLE 15

• Joe And Maria Iro Mark 50 Years Of Marriage • PR WORLD HOLDS 4TH Luxury Beauty Brunch

6

COVER STORY

Yomi Makun, Okpa Mccoy Agada & Kola Kuddus

Quotes...

“Good, better, best. Never let it rest. ‘Til your good is better and your better is best”.

- St. Jerome

Editor’s Note We have an industry! The fashion industry has taken off on its own; without any structure or regulations. So powerful is the spirit and soul of fashion that it has assumed a life of its own.

We love fashion as a people. The average Nigerian wouldn’t think twice about spending his/her last kobo on looking good. This is why fashion should, by now, have gotten official recognition as one of the cash cows of diversification.

All over the world, fashion is a major player in economic growth. In Italy, a ministry is dedicated to fashion while in France, there is a whole department devoted to fashion.

Britain and America have councils dedicated to promoting their fashion industry. These countries are reaping the fruit of the efforts they put in setting up a structure to help navigate this evidently creative sector.

It is a huge industry that employs millions of people and has contributed immensely to the growth of these economies.

As ‘black gold’ loses its allure, it’s time to turn to this neglected elephant; ivory is very expensive.

On our cover are three young men whose respective bank balance reveals that fashion is the beautiful bride. And, they are not falling out of love anytime soon. Yomi Makun, Okpa McCoy Agada, and Kola Kuddus spoke with Pamela Echemunor. See pp. 6-10.

It’s another Fashion Edition. Enjoy our tips and our selection of ankara designs, local and international.

Have a great week! #CHIBOKGIRLS: 500+days

R.

Remmy Diagbare @ Vanguardallure1

“Time is too slow for those who wait, too swift for those who fear, too long for those who grieve, too short for those who rejoice, but for those who love, time is eternity”.

- Henry Van Dyke

“Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time”.

- Thomas A. Edison

TEAM JEMI EKUNKUNBOR

lookposh@yahoo.co.uk

PAMELA ECHEMUNOR

pamela.echemunor @gmail.com

YEMISI SULEIMAN

suleimanyemisi@gmail.com

FATIMA GARBA

fatigarba36@yahoo.com

EDITOR REMMY DIAGBARE DEPUTY EDITOR JEMI EKUNKUNBOR ASST. EDITOR YEMISI SULEIMAN STYLE REPORTER PAMELA ECHEMUNOR CONTRIBUTORS PRINCESS KATE EMIKO BAMIYO ISELEMA EMINA JEROME CODJO-YAOVI ONIPEDE

CONT. EDITOR LATASHA NGWUBE COPY EDITOR DODOIYI WILLIAM-WEST CORRESPONDENTS FATIMA GARBA DAVINA AYODELE LAYOUT / DESIGN GREGORY OBI OLAYIWOLA AJAGBE PHOTO OSCAR OCHIOGU (08034746487)

Printed and published by Vanguard Media Ltd Vanguard Avenue Kirikiri Canal; P.M.B 1007 Apapa, Lagos.

For advertisement / enquiries, call DEBBIE: 08039675880, Office Auxiliary: EBERE OKOH

2

FAS H I O N

WAYS with the

PENCIL SKIRT By - Jemi Ekunkunbor The classic pencil skirt is a popular wardrobe staple. It is figure- hugging and flatters one’s shape nicely. Although it is a famous work wear, it can also be worn for many other occasions and with a variety of blouses other than the classic white shirt.

classic white shirt

earrings Black chiffon blouse

necklace

burberry bag

Elegant Pencil Skirt black gold sandal

CLASSIC OFFICE LOOK

If you will do black head to toe, let the textures be different. To play safe, opt for the classic white shirt over a black pencil skirt’; tuck into the skirt to give definition to your waist line. For those slim around the hips, try patterned skirt.

4

/ May 15, 2016

sequins pencil skirt

suede disco clutch

GO GLAM genevieve nnaji

At night, bring on the glamour and drama. This sequins skirt tells it all. Pair with a soft flowy blouse and accessorize with a pair of sparkly earrings and matching long necklace. Finish the look by ditching your day bag for a more comfy clutch bag. Do let it match with your blouse.

FA S H I ON

DO KHAKI By - Jemi Ekunkunbor

Right

A pair of khaki trousers like a pencil skirt, is a versatile wardrobe staple. A fitted pair of khaki pants is a fashion must-have for any well rounded wardrobe.

Because khaki’s are usually neutral pants, they go with just about any colour. In and out of season, white, black, jewel tones, generally, work well with a pair of khaki pants.

Here are two looks to help you style your pair.

cotton shirt

white v-neck tshirt

banky w

CLASSIC Work a pair of brown khaki pants with a sky blue shirt and finish the look with a dark brown belt and matching dark brown brogues.

SPORTY

khaki trouser

To achieve that sporty look, combine a pair of khaki with a light coloured t shirt to create a balance in the colour arrangement. Wear a pair of funky trainers and finish the look with a pair of trendy sunglasses.

khaki trouser

leather belt

iyanya

dark brown brogues Cesare-paciotti sneakers

May 15, 2016 /

5

REPORTAGE

REPORTAGE

Okpa McCoy Agada, Yomi Makun and Kola Kuddus

- Defining Brands with Passion

By Pamela Echemunor

T

he Nigerian fashion industry has grown over the years, producing brands that can stand side by side other brands in Africa and, someday, will stand up to its global contemporaries. These three designer brands, Yomi Casual, Kola Kuddus and McCoy of MC Tell Gallery, had dreams and passion they fuelled to build their brands. Today, their names strike a chord in the industry and they have no plans of slowing down. In this interview, they talk about their passions and expectations for the future of Nigerian fashion.

CREATIVE DIRECTOR: NELLY MESIK PHOTOGRAPHY: AHAM IBELEME LOCATION: YOMI CASUAL STUDIO

6

/ May 15, 2016

May 15, 2016 /

7

REPORTAGE

REPORTAGE

Okpa McCoy Agada, Yomi Makun and Kola Kuddus

- Defining Brands with Passion

By Pamela Echemunor

T

he Nigerian fashion industry has grown over the years, producing brands that can stand side by side other brands in Africa and, someday, will stand up to its global contemporaries. These three designer brands, Yomi Casual, Kola Kuddus and McCoy of MC Tell Gallery, had dreams and passion they fuelled to build their brands. Today, their names strike a chord in the industry and they have no plans of slowing down. In this interview, they talk about their passions and expectations for the future of Nigerian fashion.

CREATIVE DIRECTOR: NELLY MESIK PHOTOGRAPHY: AHAM IBELEME LOCATION: YOMI CASUAL STUDIO

6

/ May 15, 2016

May 15, 2016 /

7

REPORTAGE

BEING IN FASHION WAS ORIGINALLY A MISTAKE

- YOMI MAKUN

REPORTAGE

Y

omi Casual is the CEO and face of the Yomi Casual brand. His move into fashion was inspired by a mistake his sister made filling his JAMB form. The abstract artist loves to paint and infuses his creative passion into his designs, using patterns and unique forms to bring his clothing to life.

Yomi, younger brother of comedian and actor, AY Makun, honed his skill and today designs for top personalities in the country. In this interview, he talks about his brand and focus for the future.

How did your brand come to be?

It all started in 2007. I studied Fashion Designing and Clothing Technology at Auchi Polytechnic. It was all a mistake (laughs). Fashion was not my thing. I never wanted to be a designer. My older sister got my JAMB form in 2002 and mistakenly filled in Fashion Designing instead of Fine and Applied Art. That was how it all came to be.

So, if you weren’t doing fashion designing, what career line would you be in?

First and foremost, I’m an artist. I love to paint, sketch etc. I do a lot of creative art and painting. I’m an illustrator. Before I gained admission into school, I used to paint on my street, sell local paintings, meet people and sketch them for a token and I believe I’m good at that.

Have you done any painting that is showcased anywhere at the moment?

Way back, I always wished and believed I would be a big artist like Picasso etc. But as it happens, I found myself in fashion which is equally as exciting.

Even though none of my works is in any gallery, I hope someday to paint a masterpiece that everyone would come to see and be willing to buy and love.

What is the inspiration behind Yomi Casual?

First of all, you need to know that Yomi Casual is a very creative guy. Like I said, I’m an artist and as the saying goes: “artists have a third eye”. The way we reason is very different from other people. I see life from a totally different perspective. In essence, the brain behind Yomi Casual is really unorthodox. I get my ideas from the oddest places like the internet, the streets, the thread I sew with, life etc.

Who is your focus market?

From the beginning, I looked up to one designer, Mudi; he is my mentor. When I came to Lagos, I saw his work and my brother told me who he is. That inspired me to go into designing knowing that there were creative people like me making it in the fashion scene.

Mudi’s work gave me a focus group; he caters for high society, politicians and CEOs. My focus is those top personalities in the country because of the designs and pricy fabrics I use but soon, I intend to create lines that will cater for everybody.

•Makun

Would you say that your brother’s social status influenced your rise to the top?

Of course, very much so. AY came in as a backbone for my career. It’s always good to have that person who can help and push you forward; you need much more than talent to rise to the top. You need that voice, out there, to speak for you. There are designers with crazy talent that don’t have a voice. I would say my brother gave me that voice and opportunity for people to see what I could do.

With people like IK Ogbonna, Alex Ekubo, Zack Orji etc. representing your brand, what influenced your choice of brand ambassadors?

Truth is, I don’t like using skinny models. My target was these kinds of individuals; the normal man. You hear designers telling you things like they don’t have designs for anybody that is size 14; you have to be like an 8 or 10. When I started out, I made an outline for the kind of people I wanted to wear my outfits and I feel good when I see them putting on my designs.

Tell us about your collaboration with Tu-Face for

8

/ May 15, 2016

the shirt collection.

I was with Tu-Face a while back and told him that he hadn’t endorsed me so he came up with the idea of the Tu-Face collection for Yomi Casual. That is something that has been on with other notable celebrities for designer brands like Rihanna for River Island and Justin Bieber for Calvin Klein. So, this is Tu-Face for Yomi Casual. It will be very unique and exceptional so look out for it. Fingers crossed.

What is your vision for Yomi Casual in the future?

In the nearest future, I hope my brand will be one of the biggest in Nigeria. I make traditional wears that are appealing and I hope they will be better in time to come. I’m also looking at a long overdue fashion showcase. I have sent proposals out and I hope my sponsors see this. Please, I am still hoping for positive feedback (laughs).

What has been your biggest challenge since inception?

I would say there are a lot of designers in Nigeria that don’t want to work. They are so lazy that they don’t want to think and come up with their own original designs. They wait for you to work and then steal your original design. That hurts me a lot.

What do you think will put the Nigerian fashion scene on fashion’s global map?

I think we are doing it already. We already have an appeal; people respect the Nigerian fashion industry and praise it. Way back, you couldn’t come out and say you’re a designer; they looked down on us. What I think we need is backing from government. We need investors who believe in the industry’s potential.

A country like China encourages creativity because innovation aids in economic growth and that is what they thrive on. So, if more money is invested in the industry, then we will definitely grow.

What motto do you live by?

Live life as it goes with planning. I don’t like to stress and bother about anything that will happen.

But I always plan as well.

ction e ll o c ’s y o c c M a Okp and work twice as hard. It keeps me on my toes each time I have to come out to represent them. It brushed me up for the fashion business at a young age. As the brand ambassador, I am a face to push the brand, showing the essence in my designs and speaking at the forefront; representing them in the fashion scene. It isn’t an easy task but I’m thankful for it.

•Agada

FINE ARTS HELPS ME FINE TUNE FASHION - OKPA MCCOY AGADA O

kpa McCoy is a fast rising designer and creative artist. Much like his contemporaries, he had a humble beginning. The Cross River State indigene always had passion for fashion and decided to improve his skill by attending fashion school. His commitment to his trade and passion finally earned him recognition when he was named Da Viva brand ambassador. He is also billed to showcase at the Africa Fashion Week Nigeria in July. In this interview, he talks about his work, passion and plans.

What was growing up like for you?

I’m the fifth child from a family of eight. I had older ones who were very caring and I have always been creative. I usually found myself styling my older ones and even my parents. My drive for fashion started way back, when I was quite young. Then, I didn’t even know what I was doing. It wasn’t a defined thing. I became more aware when I went to fashion school. I looked at all the sketches I had made and learnt the nitty gritty of styling and designing. All in all, I would say growing up was fun.

ection ll o c s l’ a u s a C i m Yo

Which celebrities have you worked with?

My very first collection was used to style Miss Tourism Nigeria at the time. I have also styled for several music videos after which I styled on the set of “Seriously Speaking with Adesuwa Onyenokwe”. I have also styled Yeka Onka, the first winner of Nigerian Idol, who is a personal friend of mine. I recently dressed Yemi Alade for the cover of Africa Fashion Week Nigeria.

You have won several awards which include FADAN and AFWN awards for best emerging designer. How did that make you feel?

My very first award came in December of 2014. It was the search for the next Da Viva brand ambassador organized by the Fashion Designers Association of Nigeria (FADAN). I showcased my designs and emerged one of the top-three winners. That was where it all started. After that, everything became so fast. I wasn’t even ready to start fashion at that point. I got a lot of calls and a lot of contracts through this avenue and this

enabled me to launch officially.

My Africa Fashion Week Nigeria award came later on.

When I got the call initially, I was scared and felt I wasn’t ready for a platform as big as that but, thankfully, I gave it my all and everything turned out amazing. The part that I’m most thankful for is that someone actually noticed my skill and rewarded me for it.

If you weren’t designing, what would you be doing?

I trained as an artist. I studied Fine Arts and Design from the University of Port Harcourt. Not to sound boastful, I was the best graduating student from my set (laughs) so if I wasn’t designing, I’m a trained painter. I would’ve been running a gallery or something; although fashion is still art so I’m still in the corridors of art. My going into arts actually was to fine-tune what was already there.

What does it entail to be the Da Viva brand ambassador?

Being the Da Viva brand ambassador is a lot of responsibility. When I won, it hit me that I had to sit up

What inspires you to design?

I would say everything; everything around me is bright and beautiful in my eyes and it all inspires me. Art is all around us and it takes a keen eye to capture it and translate it into something exceptional.

How would you describe your MC Tell Gallery Design line?

Naturally, I am a couture designer; even before I think little pieces, what comes to my mind, I see it in couture. I like my designs having a bit of drama; something has to pop and represent my brand in all my designs.

What motto do you live by?

What is worth doing at all is worth doing well.

Who are your fashion influences?

I used to love Giorgio Armani as a young man. I liked the fact that he has twenty three brands and he manages all of them and none of them is suffering. I like the fact that his brand is so big and still growing. However, at the moment, I’m not looking at foreigners anymore. I’m looking at people I can reach, people who can mentor me one-on-one.

I actually met Modella, the creative director of Modella Couture. I also met with several other designers who have helped me to grow. I especially look (out for) our generation - people like Ejiro Amos Tafiri, Kola Kuddus etc.

What do you think the Nigeria fashion industry needs?

The industry is growing fast and I am so happy to be a part of it now because a lot of attention is going to the industry; more attention than it has had in the past ten years. I see the industry growing bigger; it just needs a few kinks here and there. More focus should be put on building the business aspects and promoting the industry on a larger scale.

What are you working on at the moment?

I am showcasing at Africa Fashion Week Nigeria in July. I am also part of the Nigeria’s Next Top Designer Competition. I’m part of the top twenty finalists which is in tandem with the AFWN. It’s given me sleepless nights but I’m thankful and hopeful for more.

May 15, 2016 /

9

REPORTAGE

BEING IN FASHION WAS ORIGINALLY A MISTAKE

- YOMI MAKUN

REPORTAGE

Y

omi Casual is the CEO and face of the Yomi Casual brand. His move into fashion was inspired by a mistake his sister made filling his JAMB form. The abstract artist loves to paint and infuses his creative passion into his designs, using patterns and unique forms to bring his clothing to life.

Yomi, younger brother of comedian and actor, AY Makun, honed his skill and today designs for top personalities in the country. In this interview, he talks about his brand and focus for the future.

How did your brand come to be?

It all started in 2007. I studied Fashion Designing and Clothing Technology at Auchi Polytechnic. It was all a mistake (laughs). Fashion was not my thing. I never wanted to be a designer. My older sister got my JAMB form in 2002 and mistakenly filled in Fashion Designing instead of Fine and Applied Art. That was how it all came to be.

So, if you weren’t doing fashion designing, what career line would you be in?

First and foremost, I’m an artist. I love to paint, sketch etc. I do a lot of creative art and painting. I’m an illustrator. Before I gained admission into school, I used to paint on my street, sell local paintings, meet people and sketch them for a token and I believe I’m good at that.

Have you done any painting that is showcased anywhere at the moment?

Way back, I always wished and believed I would be a big artist like Picasso etc. But as it happens, I found myself in fashion which is equally as exciting.

Even though none of my works is in any gallery, I hope someday to paint a masterpiece that everyone would come to see and be willing to buy and love.

What is the inspiration behind Yomi Casual?

First of all, you need to know that Yomi Casual is a very creative guy. Like I said, I’m an artist and as the saying goes: “artists have a third eye”. The way we reason is very different from other people. I see life from a totally different perspective. In essence, the brain behind Yomi Casual is really unorthodox. I get my ideas from the oddest places like the internet, the streets, the thread I sew with, life etc.

Who is your focus market?

From the beginning, I looked up to one designer, Mudi; he is my mentor. When I came to Lagos, I saw his work and my brother told me who he is. That inspired me to go into designing knowing that there were creative people like me making it in the fashion scene.

Mudi’s work gave me a focus group; he caters for high society, politicians and CEOs. My focus is those top personalities in the country because of the designs and pricy fabrics I use but soon, I intend to create lines that will cater for everybody.

•Makun

Would you say that your brother’s social status influenced your rise to the top?

Of course, very much so. AY came in as a backbone for my career. It’s always good to have that person who can help and push you forward; you need much more than talent to rise to the top. You need that voice, out there, to speak for you. There are designers with crazy talent that don’t have a voice. I would say my brother gave me that voice and opportunity for people to see what I could do.

With people like IK Ogbonna, Alex Ekubo, Zack Orji etc. representing your brand, what influenced your choice of brand ambassadors?

Truth is, I don’t like using skinny models. My target was these kinds of individuals; the normal man. You hear designers telling you things like they don’t have designs for anybody that is size 14; you have to be like an 8 or 10. When I started out, I made an outline for the kind of people I wanted to wear my outfits and I feel good when I see them putting on my designs.

Tell us about your collaboration with Tu-Face for

8

/ May 15, 2016

the shirt collection.

I was with Tu-Face a while back and told him that he hadn’t endorsed me so he came up with the idea of the Tu-Face collection for Yomi Casual. That is something that has been on with other notable celebrities for designer brands like Rihanna for River Island and Justin Bieber for Calvin Klein. So, this is Tu-Face for Yomi Casual. It will be very unique and exceptional so look out for it. Fingers crossed.

What is your vision for Yomi Casual in the future?

In the nearest future, I hope my brand will be one of the biggest in Nigeria. I make traditional wears that are appealing and I hope they will be better in time to come. I’m also looking at a long overdue fashion showcase. I have sent proposals out and I hope my sponsors see this. Please, I am still hoping for positive feedback (laughs).

What has been your biggest challenge since inception?

I would say there are a lot of designers in Nigeria that don’t want to work. They are so lazy that they don’t want to think and come up with their own original designs. They wait for you to work and then steal your original design. That hurts me a lot.

What do you think will put the Nigerian fashion scene on fashion’s global map?

I think we are doing it already. We already have an appeal; people respect the Nigerian fashion industry and praise it. Way back, you couldn’t come out and say you’re a designer; they looked down on us. What I think we need is backing from government. We need investors who believe in the industry’s potential.

A country like China encourages creativity because innovation aids in economic growth and that is what they thrive on. So, if more money is invested in the industry, then we will definitely grow.

What motto do you live by?

Live life as it goes with planning. I don’t like to stress and bother about anything that will happen.

But I always plan as well.

ction e ll o c ’s y o c c M a Okp and work twice as hard. It keeps me on my toes each time I have to come out to represent them. It brushed me up for the fashion business at a young age. As the brand ambassador, I am a face to push the brand, showing the essence in my designs and speaking at the forefront; representing them in the fashion scene. It isn’t an easy task but I’m thankful for it.

•Agada

FINE ARTS HELPS ME FINE TUNE FASHION - OKPA MCCOY AGADA O

kpa McCoy is a fast rising designer and creative artist. Much like his contemporaries, he had a humble beginning. The Cross River State indigene always had passion for fashion and decided to improve his skill by attending fashion school. His commitment to his trade and passion finally earned him recognition when he was named Da Viva brand ambassador. He is also billed to showcase at the Africa Fashion Week Nigeria in July. In this interview, he talks about his work, passion and plans.

What was growing up like for you?

I’m the fifth child from a family of eight. I had older ones who were very caring and I have always been creative. I usually found myself styling my older ones and even my parents. My drive for fashion started way back, when I was quite young. Then, I didn’t even know what I was doing. It wasn’t a defined thing. I became more aware when I went to fashion school. I looked at all the sketches I had made and learnt the nitty gritty of styling and designing. All in all, I would say growing up was fun.

ection ll o c s l’ a u s a C i m Yo

Which celebrities have you worked with?

My very first collection was used to style Miss Tourism Nigeria at the time. I have also styled for several music videos after which I styled on the set of “Seriously Speaking with Adesuwa Onyenokwe”. I have also styled Yeka Onka, the first winner of Nigerian Idol, who is a personal friend of mine. I recently dressed Yemi Alade for the cover of Africa Fashion Week Nigeria.

You have won several awards which include FADAN and AFWN awards for best emerging designer. How did that make you feel?

My very first award came in December of 2014. It was the search for the next Da Viva brand ambassador organized by the Fashion Designers Association of Nigeria (FADAN). I showcased my designs and emerged one of the top-three winners. That was where it all started. After that, everything became so fast. I wasn’t even ready to start fashion at that point. I got a lot of calls and a lot of contracts through this avenue and this

enabled me to launch officially.

My Africa Fashion Week Nigeria award came later on.

When I got the call initially, I was scared and felt I wasn’t ready for a platform as big as that but, thankfully, I gave it my all and everything turned out amazing. The part that I’m most thankful for is that someone actually noticed my skill and rewarded me for it.

If you weren’t designing, what would you be doing?

I trained as an artist. I studied Fine Arts and Design from the University of Port Harcourt. Not to sound boastful, I was the best graduating student from my set (laughs) so if I wasn’t designing, I’m a trained painter. I would’ve been running a gallery or something; although fashion is still art so I’m still in the corridors of art. My going into arts actually was to fine-tune what was already there.

What does it entail to be the Da Viva brand ambassador?

Being the Da Viva brand ambassador is a lot of responsibility. When I won, it hit me that I had to sit up

What inspires you to design?

I would say everything; everything around me is bright and beautiful in my eyes and it all inspires me. Art is all around us and it takes a keen eye to capture it and translate it into something exceptional.

How would you describe your MC Tell Gallery Design line?

Naturally, I am a couture designer; even before I think little pieces, what comes to my mind, I see it in couture. I like my designs having a bit of drama; something has to pop and represent my brand in all my designs.

What motto do you live by?

What is worth doing at all is worth doing well.

Who are your fashion influences?

I used to love Giorgio Armani as a young man. I liked the fact that he has twenty three brands and he manages all of them and none of them is suffering. I like the fact that his brand is so big and still growing. However, at the moment, I’m not looking at foreigners anymore. I’m looking at people I can reach, people who can mentor me one-on-one.

I actually met Modella, the creative director of Modella Couture. I also met with several other designers who have helped me to grow. I especially look (out for) our generation - people like Ejiro Amos Tafiri, Kola Kuddus etc.

What do you think the Nigeria fashion industry needs?

The industry is growing fast and I am so happy to be a part of it now because a lot of attention is going to the industry; more attention than it has had in the past ten years. I see the industry growing bigger; it just needs a few kinks here and there. More focus should be put on building the business aspects and promoting the industry on a larger scale.

What are you working on at the moment?

I am showcasing at Africa Fashion Week Nigeria in July. I am also part of the Nigeria’s Next Top Designer Competition. I’m part of the top twenty finalists which is in tandem with the AFWN. It’s given me sleepless nights but I’m thankful and hopeful for more.

May 15, 2016 /

9

REPORTAGE

WE NEED PRODUCTION HUB - KOLA KUDDUS

T

op designer, Kola Kuddus, started small; his humble beginnings as a personal shopper brewed an interest into fashion designing. After years of study and perseverance, he has built a brand worthy to stand beside global brands. He is a Diamond Bank brand ambassador and his designs are widely worn in more than eight states of the country through his collaboration with retail store brand, Twice as Nice. In this sit-down, he speaks of his humble beginnings and his vision for the Kola Kuddus brand.

What challenges have you encountered since you started designing?

There have been a lot of challenges. Truth be told, the Nigerian fashion industry is still in the elementary stage; it’s still growing and it’s still not mature compared to other parts of the world. Years back, we didn’t have these platforms for designers or even a fashion industry as a whole. Now, we have government trying to invest in fashion, stakeholders trying to invest in fashion-based products, fashion based television programmes, fashion photographers etc.

Like every other business, one of the major challenges I have faced as a business man and designer is capital; capital to build a brand because in this business, you need to buy machines, power them, buy fabrics, pay staff, etc. Another major challenge would be human capital. I say this because the level at which our staff are being trained is still very basic. We lack experts and professionals; people with over 25 years work experience in the industry. It’s rare to find people who do proper fashion courses; one can’t compare the level of expertise of those who attend Nigerian fashion schools to those who study abroad.

Finally, I would say that government needs to do something about the issue of power; the average designer uses nothing less than two million naira monthly or less to run their business and power machines. Imagine a situation where there is power, that money can be utilized in another way.

Tell us about your collaboration with “Twice as Nice”.

Okay. Well, it came about as the need for retail spaces became a logistic nightmare. Twice as Nice is a retail partner; they have branches across Nigeria, with spaces in most of the major malls in the country.

They have stores all over the country - including Abuja, Port Harcourt, Warri, Enugu, Kwara and Lagos.

This gives our products much needed visibility. It allows the average consumer have access to the Kola Kuddus brand. That’s why you can see people in Nigeria wear Ralph Lauren or whatever brand you want without even knowing what he looks like. That

10

/ May 15, 2016

•Kuddus competition and I entered for it. Over 3,000 people applied and I count myself as one of the lucky few to be chosen among a selected 50. I have always wanted to go to Lagos Business School to train and upgrade my skills.

This opportunity came and we were trained for 6 months; after those 6 months, they picked the best 15. After another 6 months, they rounded it off to the top 5 which I was fortunate to be among. I also walked away with 3 million naira as a grant to grow my business. That was after a year of rigorous training. That’s how I became directly or indirectly an ambassador for Diamond Bank.

ction e ll o c ’ s u d d u K Kola was the idea behind the collaboration.

What do you think the fashion industry needs?

I think the industry needs to start working on collaborating with government to spread (our brand) appeal and production hub. We need to work hand in hand with government to work on getting premium locations for various brands because, you find people complaining that Nigerian designers are over-priced without considering how much we pay as rent, how much we spend on power, salaries, adverts, photo-shoots, look books etc. It’s all very tight and you find that, at the end of the day, it comes to a really lump sum.

Tell us about your work with the “Diamond Bank Entrepreneurship Programme”.

A few years ago, I saw an advert for a business school

What projects are you working on now?

Right now, we are working on a new collection; a new brand to suit the present economic situation of Nigeria (laughs). Everybody knows that Nigeria is in a deep recession right now and people aren’t spending; people aren’t buying so we need to create that collection - that label that would appeal to everybody; something that would keep the business running.

How do you handle difficult clients?

The world, as they say, is not a fair one so different people with different characters. That’s what makes the world. Everybody cannot act the same way. Sometimes, we have clients that over react. It’s even worse when the client doesn’t react because those ones are even more dangerous.

The idea is to know how to manage people. The clients who act out tend to apologize later for blowing up but the ones who don’t say anything just go off grid. As a designer, one needs to learn patience and perseverance.

Would you say your clothing is affordable?

We are actually a premium brand. We aren’t expensive and we don’t come cheap as well. Looking at the time we put in and quality of our pieces, the finishing and the standard we want to deliver; because for us at Kola Kuddus, we don’t see ourselves as just a Lagos or Nigerian brand. We see ourselves as worthy of competing on an international scale, because fashion is global. As someone who has dreams of having an international brand, you need to define your status and set a standard.

FA S H I ON

yellow blouse

blue blouse

Yellow And Tan

Blue and teal

Yellow is not for those who are colour-shy, so pair it with classic camel to tone down the brightness for a soft and pretty look.

This combination gives a woman who doesn’t tend to wear a lot of color a starting point to a bright wardrobe. tan skirt

Teal polka dot skirt

Vibrant Colour Combinations By - Yemisi Suleiman Red cropped blouse

bright blue pants

Navy blue satin blouse

Nothing pops up your wardrobe quite like a jolt of colour and this season’s vibrant hues, are the best to mix and match with.

Now is the perfect time to experiment with new colour combinations that you’ve probably never tried before.

From complementary colours, such as orange and blue, to combining neutrals with brights like canary yellow and camel, these cool colourful outfits will inspire you to go with the rainbow.

green blouse

Nathalie Emmanuel in a sky blue top & orange skirt

Blue and Red

Navy and Pink

Colour lovers, get ready to take your love for colour to the next level. Grab that bright red striped top and pair it with an equally vivid blue skirt or pants.

Navy and Green

Navy is forever classic, but pair it with hot pink for some sophisticated pop.

Pink lace skirt

Navy and green work well together offering a subtle way to combine colours as seen here.

Navy blue capri pants

May 15, 2016 /

11

FA S H IO N

LOCAL

g n i o G s i The world By - Yemisi Suleiman

O

nce seen as the fabric for the old and locals, African prints have since metamorphosed into a global brand with significant presence on the runway at fashion shows all over the world. Thanks to creative and ambitious Nigerian and other African designers with visionary minds, who were ready and eager to put African fashion on the international map, a feat which has been achieved over the years.

Today, the African print has proven to be so versatile that it is now recognized on the international fashion scene, with designers like Burbbery, Gattinoni and Gwen Stefani amongst others, incorporating it in their designs.

INTERNATIONAL

FASH IO N

ETHNIC A number of celebrities have also been spotted in Ankara ensembles on red carpets at home and globally. This development, has led to a change in the general perception of the Ankara fabric worldwide. To many, the Ankara fabric has become a wardrobe staple already, while elegant creativity of the designers has made it a preferred choice of the rich and celebrities.

No doubt, the once cheap African fabric, has undergone a magical transformation from cultural attire to a glamorous wardrobe must-have and right now, the spotlight is on Africa.

cPrint ruffle dress Pottery Novelty Print Dress

Rihanna

Joslyn Dumas African inspired

ankara jacket

Gwen Stefani

ankara gathered knee lenth skirt

the pencil dress the cape dress

12

/May 15, 2016

House of DerĂŠon DRAPED MINI DRESS

high waist african print maxi skirt

Ankara skirt

African print dress with puff sleeve

May 15, 2016 /

13

FA S H IO N

LOCAL

g n i o G s i The world By - Yemisi Suleiman

O

nce seen as the fabric for the old and locals, African prints have since metamorphosed into a global brand with significant presence on the runway at fashion shows all over the world. Thanks to creative and ambitious Nigerian and other African designers with visionary minds, who were ready and eager to put African fashion on the international map, a feat which has been achieved over the years.

Today, the African print has proven to be so versatile that it is now recognized on the international fashion scene, with designers like Burbbery, Gattinoni and Gwen Stefani amongst others, incorporating it in their designs.

INTERNATIONAL

FASH IO N

ETHNIC A number of celebrities have also been spotted in Ankara ensembles on red carpets at home and globally. This development, has led to a change in the general perception of the Ankara fabric worldwide. To many, the Ankara fabric has become a wardrobe staple already, while elegant creativity of the designers has made it a preferred choice of the rich and celebrities.

No doubt, the once cheap African fabric, has undergone a magical transformation from cultural attire to a glamorous wardrobe must-have and right now, the spotlight is on Africa.

cPrint ruffle dress Pottery Novelty Print Dress

Rihanna

Joslyn Dumas African inspired

ankara jacket

Gwen Stefani

ankara gathered knee lenth skirt

the pencil dress the cape dress

12

/May 15, 2016

House of DerĂŠon DRAPED MINI DRESS

high waist african print maxi skirt

Ankara skirt

African print dress with puff sleeve

May 15, 2016 /

13

Surgeons do a lot of noses and are very good at them but have done very few breast reductions. Ask how many they do a year and the last time they did one. You want the surgeon who does the particular procedure the most.

3. Where will the scar be and are the scars permanent?

Dr. Emeka Onyewu

8

Questions To Ask Before Your Breast Reduction Surgery

The Doctors Forum Plastic Surgeon, writes about relevant questions you must ask, before going under the knife 1. Who is doing the surgery?

This is very important. A lot of doctors are secretive about their qualifications. A Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon has been trained specifically to perform this procedure and has been supervised and tested rigorously before being allowed to go out and operate on patients. Can other surgeons perform this procedure? Perhaps, but they have not been trained the same way nor have they observed, assisted and then performed hundreds of these procedures before coming out to practice. When things go smoothly and the case is uncomplicated, you may not notice a difference, but when complex situations arise, you want the properly trained doctor to be the one standing over you.

KATHY EMIKO

Let the surgeon know if you want to be small or still endowed. If he can’t get you to the exact size you want, would you rather be a little too small or a little too big? This will help the surgeon plan intraoperatively and pre-operatively. You don’t want to wake up surprised!

TO BE CONTINUED ...

2. How many of these has the surgeon done?

Most surgeons will gladly tell you if they have done 10 vs 100 vs 1000 of these cases. Some Plastic

not just slimming but fitness

aid in digestive health. A large banana has about 4 grams of dietary fiber, which makes it a good source based on the recommended intake established by the Institute of Medicine: 25 grams daily for women and 38 grams for men. Fiber plays an important role in weight loss because it slows digestion, which helps you feel full and keeps blood sugar balanced. Avoiding spikes in blood sugar makes it more likely that your body will burn fat for energy, according to an article in The Journal of Nutrition.

Most starch in food is a complex carbohydrate that provides glucose for energy, but some foods

...CONTINUED FROM LAST WEEK

While bananas provide a range of nutrients, they are excellent sources of potassium and vitamin B-6, and have around 10 percent of the RDA for a nutrient you might not expect -- vitamin C. Fiber and Resistant Starch in Bananas.

The resistant starch and fiber that bananas contain not only support weight loss, but also

14

/May 15, 2016

4. Has he had any complications in the past?

Complications are not necessarily a sign of a bad doctor. If you have done a lot of any procedure, over time, you will see one or two complications.

You would want an honest surgeon operating on you. You also want a realistic idea of what types of complications to expect so you can be prepared. Too many complications too often, however, may be a red flag.

5. What size will I be in the end? Have a thorough discussion about what size to expect realistically.

BodyPerfect

BANANA AND WEIGHTLOSS: THE TRUTH

Different methods and techniques produce different scars. All scars are permanent. While it is true that they will fade over time, they will never disappear completely. You have to be willing to accept the possibility of a visible scar or opt not to have the procedure.

HEALTH

News101

Weight-loss is about calories in versus calories out.

Dr. Onyewu specializes in surgery of the breast, reconstruction, breast lifts, body sculpting using liposuction, and also performs reconstructive procedures to correct deformities or defects, and improve body function.

You can connect with him on LinkedIn ‘Emeka Onyewu MD’, or through Twitter and Instagram @CASSurgery.

contain a different type of carb called resistant starch. Resistant starch is incompletely digested and is instead, fermented in the colon. Fewer calories are produced for each gram of resistant starch than for each gram of other carbohydrates.

Green bananas are one of the top sources, with 8.5 grams of resistant starch in a small green banana.

The amount goes down as they ripen, so a small ripe banana has 2 to 5 grams. Studies suggest that resistant starch may stimulate the breakdown of stored fat, but more research is needed to prove its effectiveness, according to Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition. At the very least, eating a green banana instead of the same size ripe banana means you probably absorb fewer calories because the green one has more resistant starch.

CARBOHYDRATES IN BANANAS For many years, bananas had the reputation of being bad for weight loss because they had more carbohydrates than other fruits. It’s true that most fruits have less carbs, but a large apple has about the same number as a large banana. The carbs in bananas also range from 23 grams in a small banana to 31 grams in a large banana. And remember that some of the carbs in a banana are resistant starch, which other fruits don’t contain.

Beyond the amount of carbs, the important factor is the impact they have on blood sugar.

TO BE CONTINUED ...

Princess Kathy is a certified nutrition and fitness consultant.

Princess Kathy is a certified nutrition and fitness consultant.

Email: bodyperfectng@gmail.com | Twitter: @usoorganic | Email: bodyperfectng@gmail.com | Twitter: @usoorganic | BB: 2B679D12 | Blog: princess Kathy Emiko.

BB: 2B679D12 | Blog: princess Kathy Emiko.

PEOPL E

“ONE PARTY AT A TIME!”

:08034746487 | 08039675880

Joe and Maria Iro mark 50 years of marriage Photos - Gboyega Lawal

Tim Obijuru

IJEOMA OROGBU, UDOCHI ISIUWA, CHIZOBA IRO & CHINYERE obijuru

Former Executive Director of NNPC, Engr. Joe Iro and his wife, a former Chief Training Officer and Head of the NNPC’s Lagos zonal training department, Mrs. Maria Iro, recently, celebrated 50 years of marital bliss.

The event which took place at the Civic Center in Victoria Island, Lagos, brought together friends and family members who came to felicitate with the couple.

It was an emotional event as the children celebrated their parents for their exemplary marriage. Friends also showered encomiums, gifts and prayers on the couple.

Pictured here are some of the guests that graced the occasion.

Chijioke Iro

Chinedu Iro, Gozie Orogbu, Christopher Iro, Emma Isiuwa & Uzo Iro THE couple: Engr Joe and Maria Iro

(Chief) Engr J.J Akpieyi & mabel

Bona okafor

DR. THOMAS JOHN

John Onuoha ego

ngozi akpabio

Chief George and Mrs Chinyere Anyiam-osigwe

MR & MRS NOBERT CHUKWUMA

william akpabio

SURV. (HON) DAMIEN AND ROSE NZENWA

ROLAND OKWECHIME

Dr. Clement Iro

Chief & MRS SAM AZEBEOKHAI

PR WORLD HOLDS 4TH Luxury Beauty Brunch By - Pamela Echemunor

Tope Omai

Layole Oyatogun

Salma Phillip, Moraim Musa & Brycee Bassey

shade ladipo

a guest

tayo afolabi

Omogemura

Tewa Onasanya

PR Wold , recently, hosted’Luxury Beauty Brand’, the fourth edition of it’s annual beauty brunch at Victoria Island, Lagos. This edition of the Beauty Brunch was tagged, “World of Fragrances”. According to founder of Luxury Beauty Brunch ,Tayo Afolabi, “The brunch aims at celebrating entrepreneurs in various arms of beauty, and this time, we are celebrating the exceptional world of fragrances”.

The event featured various guest speakers within the cosmetics and fragrance industry including CEO of Mystique Perfumery,Tope Omai and Maryam Afolabi of Supreme Bouquet and Style Loft who both spoke on “The art of perfume making” , Hafsatu Garba of Mahnouch Beauty Place, profiled Northern scents from their brand and Zaron Cosmetics gave a talk on makeup trends, amongst others.

The event was not all talk, as guests were treated to games, drinks and yummy snacks by Casper and Gambini. At the close of the event, guests went away with goodies from Zaron Cosmetics and Aweni Organics. The event was hosted by STV’s Layole Oyatogun.

May 15, 2016 /

15