//

Search Results

Archive for the ‘Fashion’ Category

League of Rebels

By romola on August 29, 2010 | Category: Fashion, Featured Articles | Tags: , , | 1 Comment

League of Rebels  as the name might suggest is a group name for a group of designers that currently live in the U.S.A, they have had the opportunity to showcase their work at various  fashion shows with evidently well-structured designs to measure up to par. Gidilounge met with these talented group of designers and stylists and thought we’d have a chat with them to discuss their goals, aspiration and how well the brand is doing at the moment curremtly.

GidiLounge: What’s the story behind ‘league of rebels’? ; The brains/brain behind it, where and how it started?

LeagueofRebels: The birth of ‘League of Rebels’ came much as a radical idea by a bunch of fashion loving friends, mostly 85’ babies who all met in University. After years of addictively shopping together, exchanging fashion ideas, views, opinions and critiquing multiple pieces, we decided to take matters into our own hands. Over the years, we had had joked about starting up a line but that was just about it, until last year one of us had looked into it further and pitched the idea again to everyone on a conference call because by then we had all graduated and moved to different cities and countries. Right then, on a single call, we bought the idea and agreed to it, worked out a plan right away, settled on a name and got right to work

GL: Why did you all collectively chose bespoke tailoring?

LoR: We all happen to be suckers for classic styles and always loved dressing in layers. So we thought it best to make the strong point of the brand what we’re most passionate for and make it the defining product of the brand. Having all worn bespoke suits for many years now, we also felt educated enough on what and how it should be, so that set us in this direction.

GL: Bespoke tailoring isn’t the easiest task, how does the team of ‘rebels’ effectively carry out this task?

LoR: It sure isn’t the easiest task but we get by. We have the advantage of being a group so we get to even out various duties amongst ourselves. Hence, making things much easier. We’ve also been friends for a pretty good time so at this point we know both our strong and ‘not so strong’ points. We also know to whom we should delegate particular duties. We’re all full of energy and love to work with resilience. We even have a few workaholics in the gang, so that’s just lovely

GL: As it isn’t a one person brand, how do you get collective inspiration?

LoR: Our individual styles aren’t totally in the same ballpark, but that only makes it more interesting for us. As with any group of people, there will always be different ideas and views of perspective at some point or on certain issues but we have our little laws and rules we abide. Most importantly, we’ve learnt to compromise but keep things fun and interesting. Anyone with a new idea or something out of the box will have to pitch the idea and pretty much sell it to the gang, then we take a vote and as always the majority wins. In any case of a tie, we’ll take the idea and we actually lobby each other to get that vote! This is totally allowed by the gang.

GL: How well is the brand doing and how well is has it been accepted by the consumer community?

LoR: The brand is doing very well and just about exceeding our fore-planned expectations. We are currently mainly focused on branding the line at this point, trying to get our place on the fashion scene and get everyone familiar with the brand. We have also been getting beautiful reviews and comments on our work but haven’t begun fully catering to the consumers as far as selling, with our online store or through retail stores. But we have been receiving enquiries, which we’re excited about. We’ve still picked up some clients who we cater to privately.

GL: Before launching ‘league of rebels’, had any of you apprenticed with any bespoke tailors or top designer?

LoR: Prior to the brand, none of us had actually apprenticed or worked with any fashion line or even studied Fashion Design professionally. We’ve basically come into this with our taste, styles and personal views on fashion. We got our experience from years of shopping. Amongst the gang we mainly majored in Business, Economics and Finance which actually helps a lot with the back end of the brand.

GL: A lot of people are into bespoke tailoring these days, what makes your designs unique?

LoR: We try to stand out and be different from the crowd, so as to get our own identity. We offer ‘out of the box’ designs and input a lot of interesting fabrics that stand out. We also like to have fun and be fancy, so we infuse that into the brand. But most especially, we try to be genuine and express our vision of style and elegance.

GL: How does it work with Bespoke Tailoring? Do you launch a new collection for Autumn/Winter and Spring Summer every year?

LoR: League of Rebels has both Spring/Summer and Fall/Winter collection annually. At the same time, in between our major collections we intend to have some limited edition pieces based on different themes and ideas of ours, keeping things a tiny bit more interesting.

GL: Must take a lot of time and effort getting a collection out there, what’s the average time it takes to put a new collection out there?

LoR: We like to work on our collections way ahead of time and simultaneously put various collections together in little bits. Switching back and forth depending on our moods and pieces or colors we want to work with. This is sort of weird but actually really good for us because it prevents any downtime. If you get worn-out on something, rather than try to rest and recuperate, we work on something different! Right now we have a partial Fall/Winter 2010 and Spring/Summer 2011 collection already. It does take quite some time, but the way we work would cloud an accurate timeframe. At least we can say for sure, it takes months of continuous hard-work and inspiration to get any collection together.

GL: What’s the target market for the brand?

LoR: The brand will appeal to fashion forward individuals, those who like detailed and well defined pieces of clothing. Our target individuals would be young professionals or in that age group.

GL: Where do you see the brand in 5-7years from now?

LoR: We do have short and long term goals, but overall we’d love to have the brand stabled and fully operational. Before the timeframe, we look to have our line carried in exclusive stores through the U.S., Russia, England, France, and Ukraine and we also hope to open our flagship store in Abuja

GL: Does League of Rebels have a role model or a Top Bespoke Tailor it admires?

LoR: Hopefully, this won’t come out sounding pompous but we really don’t have any particular role model tailor or designer we exclusively look up to but across the board we overwhelmingly love and look to two classic characters which we’ve always connected to and grew up watching actually! Their tastes and lifestyles in general not only in regards to fashion reflect our inner thoughts, passion and lifestyles collectively. These characters are both Sherlock Holmes and Poirot. In our opinion, no one has rocked a three piece suit as eloquently as Poirot or looks as badass as Holmes with an Ascot and pipe. These are the characters we look to as role models in fashion and style.

GL: What would be your advice for those that want to go into Business Partnership and into Bespoke Tailoring? Or even Fashion Design..

LoR: Our advice to anyone out there looking to get into a partnership is to know who you are getting into business with and understand them before committing. Most especially, be prepared to compromise. Wither Bespoke Tailoring or Fashion Design in general we’d say to find yourself and what you are, or your views on fashion and what you want it to be. Define your fashion and then express it to the world. Please yourself and do what you want and love finding a way to incorporate it with consumer needs.

GL: Future Projects? Upcoming Fashion shows?

LoR: We have a number of projects in the works. We’ll be launching our new website and online store by the fall. We also look to introduce additional products to the line such as accessories and shirts. Letting the cat out of the basket, we’re in talks to lunch a Shirt collection in honor of the late U.S. Senator Charlie Wilson in respect to his impeccable fashion style and rebellious nature. That should be interesting, and we are madly excited about it. In every of the last three months, we’ve participated in Fashion Shows from Mose EXPOSED 2010 to the Miami in Dallas Fashion Show and invited as a guest designer to the runway at the Dallas Designers Competition 2010, so we’ve been quite busy on the runway and now done for the Summer but we’ll be looking at a few Fashion Shows in New York and Moscow for our Fall/Winter Collection.

GL: Welldone Guys and Goodluck for the future, Many thanks for your time.

LoR: Thanks

CALLING ALL GUYS: YOUR NIGHT OUT

By Bode Aboderin on August 23, 2010 | Category: Fashion | Tags: , , | No Comments

The Outfit for Dance Clubs, Nightclubs, After-Hours Bars:


The atmosphere in most dance halls, nightclubs, and after-hours bars
can be extremely youthful, energetic, and modern. For this reason it
is important to dress appropriately both in the context of fashion as
well as for comfort amongst the sweltering heat of bodies packed unto
the dance floor.

The first few suggestions for an evening out at one of these
establishments deals with simple grooming. Be sure that you are
wearing ample anti-perspirant or deodorant – this might seem silly but
it will surely be a lifesaver, particularly if you are looking for a
romantic ending to your venture.

Stylish choices to wear to a nightclub or dance bar would definitely
be a flashy, attractive sport-shirt that is boldly patterned in some
way – popular choices include fine paisley, brightly coloured pin
stripes, or a fine check or jacquard print.

Avoid very conservative windowpane patterns or solid colours other
than black. These looks are better suited for business attire – the
last thing you want to come across as at these events is conservative,
and rather staid.. (complete suits with a tie are a no no )

Slim Fit Dress Shirts, Bright Pin Stripes and Patterns, Jeans and Casual Pants
Choose a slim fitting dress shirt if you are possessed of a slim,
athletic, or average build – this will promote a masculine silhouette
and also shows a sense of style. If you are of larger stature, it
might be wise to wear a more classically fit dress or sport shirt, or
perhaps a brightly coloured ringer underneath a lightweight blazer. In
the winter months, larger gentleman might want to choose a fitting,
lightweight sweater. When considering a dress or sport shirt, choose
a dark base such as black, charcoal, or midnight blue or purple –
these provide the perfect base colour for bright patterns and designs
that are aesthetically appealing and attractive to the eye.

With regards to pants, the best choices are either flat-front casual
or dress pants – typically made from light-weight, breathable cotton –
or high quality dress denim with a persuasive and aggressive tint.
Once again, the bolder and better co-ordinated, the better.


Designer Labels, The Bottom Line is Personality
Cotton casual pants are extremely popular in black with white or gray
pinstripes, and can be found at nearly any menswear retailer. By
comparison, designer jeans and denim can be had from such labels as 7
for all Mankind (Seven), or if your pocketbook will not allow that,
perhaps a more affordable label such as Topman, Diesel, H&M , Firetrap
or even The Gap.

The bottom line when it comes to dressing for a night out with the
boys (or girls!) is to have fun! No amount of pretense can afford a
gentleman the right moves that true comfort can bring. If it fits
well, looks great, and feels comfortable after dancing well into the
wee hours of the morning – it’s a surefire hit and the sign of a great
addition to your sharp casual wardrobe.

CASUAL STYLES FOR 2010/11

By Bode Aboderin on August 15, 2010 | Category: Fashion, Featured Articles | Tags: , | 1 Comment


A new year is approaching quickly, and 2011 promises to be a step in
the fashion forward direction as clothiers unveil increasingly
colourful and eccentric patterns.

Normally, the winter season is full of monochromatic offerings ranging
from the merely conservative to the notoriously boring and staid.
Grey, black, white, and the odd navy or business blue pervade the
sartorial sensibilities of consumers as well as clothiers when
unveiling a winter collection for men – a remnant of thinking decades
past.

The winter season of 2010/ 2011 promises to be a fun and vibrant start
to a wonderfully eccentric new year in men’s fashion that will
certainly push the aesthetic boundaries, especially with regards to
colour, form, and patterning.

Wear Designer Jeans With Everything and Everything, Smart Casual:

Smart casual has made an enormous comeback in recent years as men
across the globe suit up in a fitted pair of designer jeans
accompanied by a stylish sport jacket and screen printed tee.
Designers such as Marc Ecko, True Religion, Rock & Republic,Diesel and
7 For All Mankind are benefiting a great deal from this trend, as are
more fusion designers such as Etro.


In the winter season, smart casual can still be de rigeur! Jeans can
be worn throughout the winter climate, though a variation of shade
must occur (for example, wearing light-blue “summer” denim is still
out of order) though light gray and black remain acceptable. Black
dyed denim jeans are somewhat bettered by pinstriped or patterned
(say, in a slight chevron pattern) cotton flat-front casual pants,
however, screen printed t-shirts and band t-shirts have also
skyrocketed in popularity in recent years, becoming appropriate attire
for teens as well as for adults. Popular retail chains such as Zara
,River Island, H&M, American ,Urban Outfitters,Hollister and my
personal favourite Top Man offer a variety of inexpensive screen
printed shirts, the prevailing fashion suggestion being to choose
high-contrast colours (black base with neon prints) for wear during
the evening or during summer months.

Out With the Old Trends, In With the New Trends (The Return of the Hat):
A few things that come to mind immediately with regard to fashion
trends that have outstayed their welcome include the skinny pant or
skinny jean, the “Kanye West” slotted shades, large, crunky jewelry
(being replaced by sleek, modern looking equivalents), and the
extra-long polo shirt.

One item that has become very much in vogue, and will see continued
success in 2010 / 2011 is the men’s hat – particularly the fedora,
newsboy, and Kangol caps. Commonly offered in pinstriped patterns as
well as embroidered with various characters such as skulls and script,
hats are once again fashionable and can be worn by men from all walks
of life – a much needed juxtaposition of traditional sensibilities and
modern panache. and also who ever it is that created the carrot top
jeans and khaki look deserves a Nobel prize, those things are highly
comfortable compared to the ultra skinnys, at least we don’t have to
worry about what damage our pants are going to be causing our
privates.

Patterned Polka Dot Pocket Squares and Handkerchiefs (and more!):

With regard to a more formal or business casual style, an appeal to
personality and flair is certainly evident with recent fashion
resurgences in office and formalwear. Commonly relegated to online
boutiques, individual artisans, and designer collections – the
ostentatiously patterned pocket square has made an emergence in the
greater consumer market.

Polka dots, bright and bold stripes, and paisley swirls can be found
adorning many popular silk and cotton offerings at major menswear
retailers – having finally made the leap from necktie to pocket square
or handkerchief.

Whatever the changes the season may bring, it remains of prime
importance that men take the care to refresh their wardrobes –
retiring the pilled and much-loved contenders of yesteryear in favour
of newer, more inspired offerings in a slew of vibrant and daring cuts
and colours. Standing resplendent in a sharp, cultivated wardrobe
brings a level of confidence that many men can only dream of.

MENS SUIT TRENDS 2010/11

By Bode Aboderin on August 10, 2010 | Category: Fashion | Tags: , | 3 Comments


Men’s fashion trends  are few and far between; yes, a lot of women’s trends are eventually adapted to the men’s market, but if men’s hair trends prove anything it is that classics will always rule when it comes to men’s fashion. Unsurprisingly it’s no different when it comes to men’s suits.



While suiting and formal-wear trends for men aren’t seasonal (unless, of course, you’re talking about the weight of the cloth) and play out over several years, 2010 and 2011 continue the change in men’s suiting that rose to the fore in recent years. For the foreseeable future the trend in men’s suiting revolves around the classics, but more specifically modern takes on the classics. A good suit for this decade will take the best elements from the peak eras of men’s suiting (think the formality of the Victorian era, the savoir faire of the 1930s and the skinny detailing of the 1960s) and apply them to a modern silhouette.

So what elements should you look for?

The Cut of the Suit

In men’s suiting there’s a move away from the ’skinny boy’ suit, but that’s not to say slim is out altogether or that a boxy cut has replaced it. Instead, think of a cut that takes would appeal to a military officer, one that accents a sense of the masculine through three key silhouette elements:

  1. broad shoulders
  2. a slim waist
  3. slim trousers

As for the individual cuts?

Double Breasted Suits and Sport Coats.


If there’s one cut that I’m glad I’ve been able to return to my wardrobe for this decade it’s the modern, double-breasted suit. Those of you old enough to remember the last time the double breasted suit or sports coat was in (the 1980s through to the mid 1990s) may remember the boxy cut it inevitably came with. Fear not, that cut is gone (and if you’re still sitting on double breasted suiting from that era, take it off to the tailors to refresh its life). In its place is a cut that pairs broad shouldered with a slim waist, a cut that defies what double breasted suits were originally designed to do: hide a plump figure. Instead their now designed to accent and to heighten the perfect masculine shape: the V-shaped, well worked body.

One additional styling tip: when selecting a double-breasted suit look for the “Kent” cut. Named after a style popularised by the The Prince George, Duke of Kent, it’s a cut of double breasted suits where a longer lapel line extends into the waist. That is to say: the part of the double breasted suit that sits on the front buttons on the waist line.  This small detail will convey height and, if cut correctly, a slimmer waist. You’ll find the Kent suit cut amongst a number of collections, including D&G Fall 2010

THREE PEICE SUITS

Let’s face it: the waistcoat has long been a dead item for most men, but thanks to resurgence in its popularity in men’s street wear the suits’ waistcoat is back with vengeance. Well, not quite vengeance but it’s back, it’s subtle and it’s classic. And that means that in 2010/11 we’ll witness the return of the three-piece suit, and I couldn’t be happier. That’s because the three-piece suit has been one of the most under-utilised parts of a man’s wardrobe over the last forty years.

The three-piece in 2010/11 is all about cohesion; forget the mismatching style prevalent in the early parts of the 20th Century and in the 1980s. The return of the three-piece means that the waistcoat has to be conservative and, thus, in the same fabric as the suit’s other two pieces. If you do want to venture outside the realm of three matching pieces, stick to a similar colour palette and avoid any pattern except for stripes; you may want to pair a pinstripe black suit with a pinstripe charcoal waistcoat.

On selecting the perfect three-piece suit I’d recommend looking for a waistcoat whose V shape breaks somewhere between the sternum and the base of the rib cage. I’ve seen three pieces from the likes of Giorgio Armani which don’t sport the V shape and finish just under the collar, these are going to be a lot harder to wear and ignore the conservative subtlety this revival depends upon. Moreover, such a large waistcoat won’t convey a slim waist as effectively as one with a deeper neck.

The Fabric / Suit Cloth

As we’ve returned to the classics with double breasted and three-piece suits, then it should come as no surprise that classic cloths, patterns and fabrics have also returned. As an added bonus, adding classic cloths to your wardrobe allows for the inclusions of fabrics and colours that you mightn’t otherwise have as an option (and helps you steer away from having the typical men’s wardrobe: black, grey, navy).

While the following are classic suit patterns perfect for 2010, 2011 and beyond, don’t forget that you can also work these same cloths into components of men’s suiting without making it an actual suit; that is, sport coats, blazers and trousers.

Harris Tweed

Houndstooth

Herringbone

Houndstooth

Pinstripe

Rope-stripe

Of course, nothing is more classic or ‘formal’ than the dinner suit. But its rules vary greatly to semi-formal and fashion suits so be sure to read our separate articles on FASHIONABLE DINNER SUITS/ TUXEDOES which additionally focuses its pairing with street wear.

Yes, suits in 2010 and 2011 are all about classic elements but there are still plenty of factors away from the trend elements that you have to contemplate. Consider all of the following before making an investment in a suit this year.

How Many Buttons?

The amount of buttons a single-breasted suit jacket should sport is really a matter of personal preference, but let me offer the following.

One Button
A single button falls into the realm of a fashion suit; it’s been a trend before and will go out again. And there’s a reason for it: within reason, the more buttons a suit jacket has the taller a gentleman looks (yet another of the visual tricks a suit can perform). So it stands to reason that a single-buttoned suit does the opposite to conveying stature. So unless you’re over 6′ 2″, I’d suggest you avoid a single-buttoned suit.

Two Buttons
My preference for a modern suit. It conveys height, slims the waist, and fits perfectly within the realm of fashion and classicism.

Three Buttons
Very much a look of the 1990’s, it’s making a come back and has been seen amongst the tailored wares of Tom Ford and Ralph Lauren’s Purple Label. Three buttons convey a greater sense of height than a two button suit, but are harder to pull off. I own ONE, and wear it in a fashion-forward sense. Definitely one for the more confident amongst us.

Four Buttons or more
Please don’t. I’m yet to see any four button suits offered in 2010/11 which truly impress me, fall within current men’s trends, and will figure in as a good investment piece beyond this year.

THE SHOULDER

A lot of suit terms can be mixed and matched, but I’m a fan of something I’ve always called the ‘British rolled-shoulder.’ Others might call it something else, but it is effectively where the shoulder padding finishes. A lot of Italian and US based designers prefer to have the shoulder padding finish precisely where the bone does. A British rolled shoulder has the padding extend over the shoulder and roll down into the sleeve, and figures into men’s suiting as another visual trick – this time designed to make the shoulders seem broader and the arms better built.

VENTS

This one is really simple: choose a suit with two side vents. The only time to break this rule is if you’re buying a dinner suits.

When tailored correctly a suit jacket with side vents is always preferential due to the perfect silhouette it can provide.

LAPELS

Since the mid-20th Century notched lapels on a suit have been the staple, but as we return towards classic tailoring in 2010 we’ll see a return of the peaked lapel. Last at the fore of fashion in the 1920s, the peaked lapel is another of the great visual elements of a men’s suit: it helps convey the much coveted V shape.

That said, notched lapels aren’t out of fashion and both are an equally good investment.

WHICH CLOTH SHOULD YOU PICK

The fabric you buy your suit in will be on of the biggest factors in the price you pay, but selecting the right fabric will also play a big factor in whether you buy an investment piece or a one season wonder.

Wool
The clear favourite for suits, but pick carefully. I’ve seen some very expensive wool suits fall apart within a few years due to the cloth being a terrible blend. My personal preference is towards super-wool, with a thread count somewhere between 120 and 150. I tend towards 150 as it’s often perfect on both cold and hot days. If you live, however, in more extreme climates you’ll need both Winter (200 thread count) and Summer (100 thread count) suits in wool.

Cotton
Cotton can make a beautiful suit, but make no mistake: it’s best only as an informal or fashion suit and, unlike wool, is going to crease like anything. I find it best in colours which aren’t black and grey, tending towards navy and tan. If you’re looking for a good cotton suit in a modern, slim classic then look to Ralph Lauren’s Black Label.

Linen

So many men simply don’t understand linen, and it’s often those of us who have had the luck of a childhood in Europe that may ever truly appreciate it. But a linen suit can be perfect for those hot, humid summer days. Shy away from it in browns and wear it in colours such as white and cream and you’ll stand out in a crowd of otherwise dull suit wearers.

One final note on linen: don’t be scared of its penchant for creasing, it’s all a part of the fabric’s charm

Roffiany Collection

By romola on August 5, 2010 | Category: Fashion | Tags: , , | 3 Comments

Roffiany is the brand name for a collection of sexy designs for 21st century woman, currently spear-headed by Rofiat Anibaba, she has chosen to share her 2010 collection with Gidilounge Readers. Here goes:

Two Hot Fashionable Minutes with Rofiat and we managed to have a quick chat, enjoy!

Romola Sadiq: So tell us how it all began?

Rofiat Anibaba: It all began years ago, when I started getting compliments from people on my outfits when I go out. Whenever I went out I always designed my own outfits, I loved pieces with tails and African prints, I love African print, OMG I DO… I can use African Prints to design anything, including accessorises. As the matter of fact I’m coming up with new designs, so I want people to please look forward to that.

R S:Where and how do u draw inspiration?

RA: My inspiration comes from so many things, for example; from my personality, from environment, from people’s thoughts and also African Fabric.

RS: Would you say that being African or being Nigerian has influence your creativity in any way?

RA: Yes! Definitely, like I said I love African Fabrics and I’m willing to use them to create anything. Part of my goal is to make Ankara (Africa Fabric) some thing you can wear to any occasion, including office.

RS: Being a designer and creative director must be challenging, how do you pull through your daily challenges?

RA: Trust me dear, there will always be a challenge, it’s something you cannot avoid, you will always come across it, ALWAYS.  Best way to deal with it is to always try as much as possible to be calm, you have to be able to control yourself. Always communicate, communication is very good, and last but not least, make sure you have plan B in anything that you do, that will definitely help.

RS: What are the Roffiany designs meant to reflect?

RA: Roffiany designs are meant to reflect modern African styles and designs in other to come up with sophisticated, classic, elegant and vogue – like outfits. 

RS: Where do you see your brand in 5 years?

RA: I see my brand in lots of places in five years, most especially in the entertainment industry. I would also love to see lots of people on the main street wearing Roffiany designs.

RS:Any upcoming events, plans you have for your brand that you wanted to inform the readers about?

RA: Yes!! I just came up with some new designs, its called “ Ankantank “ Its Ankara mixed with Tank tops and Tee. I’m having a photo shoot on them this month. Also a New music video is coming out, by Ego Ogbaro (Lagbaja ) She was wearing Roffiany Outfits ( Dress and Ankantank ).. Please check out the song and look forward to the video…  it’s very lovely …  “ Fall In Love “

RS: Many Thanks for your time and good luck!

Rofiat Anibaba, the CEO of  “ Roffiany” is based in New Jersey / New York . Roffiany is all about being sexy, beautiful, fabulous, elegant and classy. Back in the day ”I noticed African Fabric (Ankara) are only being worn to church and some African occasions and that was where my inspiration came from. My goal is to make African Fabric (Ankara) something that you can wear to any occasion, and to feel comfortable wearing them. Things that I like about my designs are; always speaking for it’s self, It can be Paired with a variety of  looks, it could be worn to any occasion and very wearable too.  However, my 2010/ 2011 themes are based on African-urban designs” – Rofiat Anibaba


…..and the bikini collection


Clarion Chukwura Clothing

By romola on July 8, 2010 | Category: Fashion | Tags: , | 2 Comments

Actress turned designer Clarion Chukwura’s hope to launch a high street label became a reality with the onset of her short break from the acting profession to implement the 2year dream of owning a clothing label. Now with the break, Clarion Chukwurah has committed herself to experimenting with her strong, lifelong passion for fashion, design and style while taking the necessary steps to launch a high end style with the affordability of casual street fashion. The first items of business include the creation of the JUBILEE collection, along with appropriate branding for Clarion Chukwurah Clothing. As a designer, Clarion Chukwurah says she strives to redefine work and casual day clothes that suits our humid weather with unique, stand out pieces that reflects a sense of effortless elegance and glamour but most importantly, reverberates the Spirit of the Nigerian. A style icon herself, Clarion Chukwurah primarily enjoys designing dress-shirts, t-shirts and pants with a penchant for feminine prints and details, but because her fan base also extends to the men folk, Clarion Chukwurah Clothing will be catering to the men as well with denim pieces, trendy t-shirts and shirts.

Clarion Chukwurah Clothing (C3) will begin sales in select stores like Try Me boutique with branches on Toyin Street and Alade market, Nigeria. Occasions & Events will also stock the designs at their Silverbird Galleria, Silverbird Entertainment Centre and E-Centre branches in Lagos, Abuja and Sabo, Yaba and eventually, spread across the nation. Sales will also be available online at www.clarionchukwurah.org . A major red carpet event to launch the label officially is in the works and will include a runway show with our nation’s superstars. Visit the website for event updates.

For more information about sales, please email   lilian.osai@yahoo.com or clarion.clarawear.chukwurah35@gmail.com

For media requests, please email abimbolaayorinde@gmail.com

Follow on twitter www.twitter.com/CChukwurahA

Style Report: Africa Fashion Week 2010

By romola on July 2, 2010 | Category: Fashion, Featured Articles | Tags: , , , | 2 Comments

Deola Sagoe

South Africa has been the center of attention since 2010 kick started (with the World being held as well as Africa Fashion week), the fashion world has anticipated this moment since Africa Fashion Week, 2010 was officially announced. Event kicked off on the 30th of June and rounds up on the 3rd of July. So far So gobsmacking, so much talent Africa has and the Nigerian designers currently in SA showing off talent and we are totally loving it. A number of local and international African designers under one roof showcasing their work.

In the past two days, 3 major Nigerian designers have stunned and dazzled - Deola Sagoe, Bunmi Koko, Ituen Basi

Day 2: 1st July, 2010

BUNMI KOKO:

On the ramps of Sandston Convention Centre, J’burg, Bunmi Olaye (Creative Director of Bunmi Koko) revealed her much anticipated ‘Matriarchy’ collection. We first spotted a few of the designs during the Graduate Fashion Week in Earls court, London. The culture-immersed collection inspired by the Efik tribe of the Calabar province in Nigeria , Bunmi Koko made use of staffs inspired by a men-only cult also of the Efik tribe. Culture being mentioned, Victorian Era style was infused/embraced in the Matriarchy collection.

Tie and dye prints ,structured tailoring, fringed leggings, tweed fabric, fur, the high neck and bodices on these designs are a reflection of the victorian era in BK’s designs.Also, the accentuated waists and cross over drapes are a disposition of the Royal Era.  Models adorned with feathered hair pieces, shoulder and bangle pompoms and even transformed the ‘local’ staffs into high fashion accessories attaching feathers and pompoms to them.

Black and White Rendevous!! A classic reinvention of the Female Tux perhaps a la EFIK tribe + Victorian Era? Bunmi Koko has infused in proportions and structure designs that are totally timeless and mind-blowing. She’s one to look out for!

Bunmi Olaye

Day 1: 30th June, 2010

Ituen Basi:

Another gemstone out of Nigeria, Ituen is known for vibrant colours and leaving an ankara mark on every thing even as little as bangles. Ituen wowed the guests at SCC when her models popped on the runway showing of Ankara like it had never been seen, wearing ‘iro n buba’ like it was the coolest thing out of the book. See for yourself!

Do i hear some ‘Sisi Eko’ music playing in the background? Ituen has vehemently proved the ‘iro and buba’ remake point, it looks like she reworked the typical 50’s Nigerian woman and made her into a high fashion darling. Full skirts, clinched waists, ankara bangles, ankara pumps, ankara bags, ankara statement neckpieces. Ituen totally injected craftmanship into the ordinary making it work for the 21st century woman and showing her skills as a home-bred designer.

Yes! we have another fringy session with Ituen just like with Bunmi Koko, we are totally loving the cropped jackets and high-waisted ankara skinnies. Mono strap floor sweeper and mono strap swing dress all reflecting the attention to detail Ituen Basi has inputed into these designs. Ituen Basi is talented!

Ituen Basi

DEOLA SAGOE:

Deola Sagoe’s ‘Vintage’ collection was birthed on the ramps on SCC, J’burg. Not to tell a lie, Deola Sagoe’s designs were very much anticipated and she didn’t fall short of expectation, Deola brought Glam to the runway leaving the guests/crowd in awe and amazement of her work. The vintage collection either gets you Melodramatic or it gets you Melodramatic and that’s because there’s no two-way about it, it takes you some sort of glamo-sphere. Deola is readily known for her ever-stylish approach to designs and she further proved her point!

A reflection of the swinging 60’s emphasizing the point that the collection is ‘vintage’, the overlapped ‘aso-oke’, sharp shoulders, accentuated waists all in a vintage flavour. Aso-oke juxtaposed with lace (below) giving it a Victorian era touch(Again a common inspiration), Polka re-vamp, floor length beauties. Deola Sagoe has pushed it to the very top and defined ‘her collection’ with ‘the collection’, the designs speak a million words. The swing 60’s outfits have attached to them, a sensual appeal, Deola has given the retro revamp an aroma that we want to smell again, the lace/crochet, the sheer panel all give this collection the name FABULOUS!

These floor length beauties remind me of under the sea creatures with a touch of color, metallic fabric giving the hips a different definition. Sagoe simply poured out glamour and high fashion. Brilliant Work!

Deola Sagoe

Gidilounge is sure to keep you updated on further updates.

-Romola

Tiffany Amber Autumn Winter 2010-11 Collection

By romola on June 20, 2010 | Category: Fashion | Tags: , | 1 Comment

Tiffany Amber is an international award winning fashion label launched in 1998 by Folake Folarin-Coker, having spent most of her growing up years out of Africa, she chose to launch a fashion line in Africa that would revolutionize the fashion industry across the diaspora .  She was recently featured on CNN (Market Place Africa with Christian Purefoy) representing the Nigerian Fashion Industry and talking generally on how well the industry is thriving and doing well beyond expectation. (See Video Below)Folake Folarin Coker was referred to in this interview as a TOP designer.

The first few days of summer are here and in the fashion world what that means is, we are already looking forward to what will be on trend in the Fall (Autumn/Winter). Folakemi Folarin-Coker of Tiffany Amber proved with this Autumn Winter look book that she is indeed experienced and a TOP DESIGNER in the fashion game.

-Grecian Structures

-Drapes

-Silk

-Colour

-Power shoulders

- Beaded Waists

The above listed must’ve been on Folake’s mind when she was creating this look book! The entire collection looks like something a Greek Goddess created a look book for but never worked on; what has then completely stolen my attention about the collection is just not ‘greekness’ of it, it is also the High Fashion and the Attention Grabbing effect it has. See for yourself….

‘

This particular collection is Absolute Loveage for us here at Gidilounge.. The above jumpsuit needs to be ordered!!!!

Going ahead to describe with words how we feel about this collection will almost be impossible, we therefore leave the reactions to your judgments.

For further info:

E: info@tiffanyamberng.com

Photo Credit: Elite Model Look, Nigeria

James LULLY; Office Opening in Abuja, Nigeria.

By romola on June 9, 2010 | Category: Events, Fashion | Tags: , | 1 Comment

Nigerian Fashion Label – JamesLULLY, Opens Home-Office in Abuja

The JamesLULLY (JL) Label, a provider of high-end fashion pieces known for its sophisticated and bold luxury items, is proud to announce the launch of its home-office, located in Abuja, Nigeria. The launch event will take place at 11am on Saturday, June 12, 2010 at Banex Plaza Extension, Wuse 2 SBE 15, Abuja. All attendees will have the opportunity to view JL creations and the first 5 guests to buy any JamesLULLY item will receive a gift.

According to the creator of the Label – Tinuola Oluleye, “creating a home for JamesLULLY will enable the Label better support and cater to the needs of its growing clientele.” In addition, the office will serve as a place of transaction as not only JL merchandise, but also that of other well-loved designers and labels will be available for purchase. Such labels include HVS (by Bukky Are), Fully Charged (by Adam Sada), Primarouge (by Tobi Martins), Tai’s Closet (by Taiwo Oniru), Ms Makor (by Anita Adebisi) and many more.

JamesLULLY has teamed up with the above-mentioned Nigerian designers to create an all-inclusive experience for JL clients.

“We do not want our clients to waste precious time shuffling from one store to the other in order to garner an outfit. Instead, we hope to provide a one-stop shopping experience – pay us a visit and you will have clothing and accessory choices to create your entire outfit,” says Oluleye.

The JL office will be unveiled at the Launch event on June 12, 2010. For additional details, please contact the JL team via email at jameslully@yahoo.com, or via phone at 08065666615/097806815.

After a year of launching its first line of handbags, the JamesLULLY team is ecstatic to have a home in the city of Abuja.

The team’s deepest appreciation goes to JL’s loyal clientele, which ensures the Label’s continual success.



Obsidian ‘Control’ Collection; The Look Book

By romola on June 3, 2010 | Category: Fashion | Tags: , | 1 Comment

It’s been about Obsidian the past few weeks; Gidilounge published an article on the Obsidian ‘Control’ Collection Fashion Film a few weeks ago, also an Exclusive Interview with Isoken (Creative Director: Obsidian).

Now the Big Bang we’ve all been the anticipating, The Obsidian ‘Control’ Collection Look Book:

Silk, Chiffon, Velvet, all of these were put into perfect use for this collection. The tailoring and fit in the outfits are top notch. The models used in the photo shoot were wearing the outfits not the outfits wearing them which is Fantastic!

I particularly love the versatility in this collection, absolutely feminine but yet edgy (giving an eye to the way the outfits were styled). If you are a vintage dresser, the collection works; If you are a girly girl, this collection LOVES girly girls; If you love being quirky, it works!

Isoken mentioned in the interview: Feminine, Detailed and Strong; was how she described the collection, I fail to disagree with that statement.

From a fashion view of the binoculars, Obsidian has done a good job so far, If there is any new thing on Obsidian to come, Trust Gidilounge to keep you posted.

La créativité au travail!

Follow Gidilounge on Twitter

Gidilounge Video

Gidilounge Twitter Updates