Category Archives: FASHION

EVENTS, FASHION

African Designers Dominate London Fashion Week’s 40th Anniversary

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A Historic Moment for African Fashion on the Global Stage

London Fashion Week’s 40th-anniversary celebration became a defining moment as African designers stole the spotlight, captivating global audiences with breathtaking collections. This groundbreaking showcase was driven by a visionary partnership between Vanity Hub Africa and London Fashion Week, led by British-Nigerian entrepreneur Lady Ayobami Animashaun.

Shaping Global Perceptions of African Luxury

Lady Ayobami’s leadership fostered a cultural exchange that introduced African innovation to the global stage, transforming perceptions of African fashion as not just cultural but luxurious and forward-thinking. “What we’ve seen today is just the beginning,” said Lady Ayobami. “African fashion is here to stay, shaping the future of global trends.”

The Stars of the Runway

  • Gert-Johan Coetzee (South Africa): Known for his couture brilliance, Coetzee wowed audiences with vibrant designs, luxurious fabrics, and sustainable techniques, redefining high fashion.
  • Ugo Monye (Nigeria): Famed for his modern Agbada, Monye elevated traditional Nigerian attire into high fashion, blending heritage with contemporary aesthetics.
  • Adebayo Jones (UK/Nigeria): His “Emperor Monarch Collection” fused British tailoring with Yoruba traditions, earning acclaim for its elegance and innovation.
  • Ifeoma Umenyiora (Nigeria): Through her label Piillz N Poizn, Umenyiora delivered bold, unapologetic styles, positioning African fashion as wearable art.
  • Yoli Koomson (Ghana): Inspired by Ghana’s Ashanti heritage, Koomson’s collection reimagined kente fabrics into sleek, modern silhouettes.
  • LA Kimmy (Nigeria): Pushing boundaries with futuristic textures and inclusive designs, Kinime Igbokwe’s La Kimmy embodied cutting-edge couture.

A New Chapter for Global Fashion

The event proved that African fashion is not a fleeting trend but a movement redefining the industry’s future. These designers showcased the continent’s creative depth through sustainable luxury, cultural narratives, and innovative design.

As the curtain closed, the message was clear: Africa had not just arrived but reshaped the global fashion landscape.

FASHION, LIFESTYLE, NEWS

Gbenga Artsmith: Pioneering African Luxury Fashion Accessories

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Blending Tradition with Modern Design

Gbenga Artsmith, a luxury fashion accessory brand, has been capturing the attention of the global fashion industry for over 16 years. Known for merging African heritage with modern design, the brand produces timeless pieces for both men and women. Founded by visionary Nigerian designer Gbenga Ayo-Dada, Gbenga Artsmith is celebrated for its handcrafted, statement accessories that seamlessly combine tradition and contemporary flair.

From intricate jewelry to leather bags and belts, the brand’s designs have made waves not only in Nigeria but also on the international stage. The brand’s signature style is rooted in African culture, which Gbenga Ayo-Dada brings to life through fashion-forward creations, making it a standout in the luxury fashion industry.

The Brand’s Mission: Honoring African Heritage

Gbenga Artsmith aims to celebrate and conserve African heritage through meticulously crafted fashion accessories that resonate with style-conscious individuals. From coral bead jewelry to cutting-edge leather accessories, the brand’s unique offerings cater to those who appreciate the artistry behind exclusive luxury designs. With a growing presence in Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, as well as expansions into the UK and USA markets, Gbenga Artsmith has become a go-to brand for luxury fashion enthusiasts.

“We are not merely creating these beautiful pieces; we are crafting stories that intertwine our rich heritage with contemporary elegance,” says Gbenga Ayo-Dada, Founder and Creative Director of Gbenga Artsmith.

Global Recognition and Acclaim

Under Gbenga Ayo-Dada’s creative direction, the brand has gained a reputation for excellence in West Africa and beyond. Ayo-Dada, who is recognized as one of the region’s most renowned male jewelers, has led Gbenga Artsmith to prestigious global platforms, including London Fashion Week and Paris Fashion Week, where his intricate designs have garnered international acclaim.

The brand’s presence at events such as African Fashion Week London and Glitz Africa Fashion Week has further solidified its standing in the fashion world. Ayo-Dada was also recognized by Guardian Life Magazine in 2018 as one of the “Movers and Shakers,” for his role in transforming African jewelry design.

Awards and Celebrity Endorsements

Gbenga Ayo-Dada’s innovative approach to jewelry design earned him the prestigious Jewelry Designer of the Year title at the Glam & Essence Awards. The brand’s pieces have adorned notable figures in Nigerian entertainment and society, including Shaffy Bello, Sola Sobowale, and architect Jumoke Adenowo, cementing its reputation as the jeweler of choice for Nollywood stars and influential personalities.

Social Responsibility and Advocacy

Beyond its design achievements, Gbenga Artsmith is also deeply involved in social advocacy. The brand actively champions causes such as cerebral palsy awareness and breast cancer advocacy. Its breast cancer awareness campaign, which graced the cover of ThisDay Style, was also featured in British Vogue, demonstrating the brand’s influence beyond fashion.

In 2020, CNN named Gbenga Artsmith as one of Africa’s changemakers, recognizing its work empowering underprivileged communities and supporting individuals living with disabilities.

Runway Success and Future Ambitions

Most recently, on September 19, 2024, Gbenga Artsmith had the honor of opening the runway at the FashionEVO X ACM 2024 event. The brand unveiled a couture collection featuring intricately crafted leather accessories and avant-garde headpieces, making a bold statement in luxury fashion.

Looking ahead, Gbenga Artsmith continues to push the boundaries of luxury accessories, blending creativity with a strong sense of social responsibility. The brand is also investing in the next generation of African designers through internships and workshops, ensuring that the legacy of African jewelry-making endures for years to come.

FASHION, LIFESTYLE

Lagos Fashion Week 2024: A Celebration of African Craftsmanship and Innovation

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Showcasing the Future of African Fashion at John Randle Centre

Lagos Fashion Week 2024 returns with a strong commitment to preserving African craftsmanship and heritage while inspiring the next generation of designers. This season’s campaign was shot at the historic John Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture & History, underscoring the event’s dedication to cultural preservation through fashion.

Rising Stars Lead the Way: Green Access Finalists

At the forefront of this year’s showcase are the finalists of the Green Access initiative, a platform dedicated to promoting sustainable fashion. The selected designers — Dimeji Ilori, Garbe, Malité, Oya Abeó, and Revival — will present their collections after months of mentorship. Their work emphasizes responsible production and sourcing practices, aligning with global sustainability trends while staying rooted in African design principles.


For more details, visit [lagosfashionweek.ng](http://lagosfashionweek.ng) or follow the official Instagram account @lagosfashionweekofficial for live updates.


FASHION, NEWS

L’Oréal: A Century of Beauty and Innovation

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For over a century, the iconic French luxury brand, L’Oréal, has been synonymous with beauty, elegance, and innovation. Through a dynamic history and ongoing evolution, L’Oréal has offered its expertise to individuals worldwide, helping them look and feel beautiful. In doing so, the company has not only catered to diverse beauty needs but has also set benchmarks for social impact, corporate governance, and ethical practices.

A Legacy of Leadership in Beauty

Since its inception in 1909, when it introduced its first product—a revolutionary hair dye—L’Oréal has maintained a leadership position in the global beauty industry. For decades, the brand has set trends and shaped the beauty landscape, driven by the belief that beauty transcends physical appearance. L’Oréal sees beauty as a fundamental human aspiration tied to self-confidence, belonging, and self-realization, values that unite people across different backgrounds.

This philosophy, combined with a passion for innovation, a commitment to superior quality, and a deep respect for diversity, has enabled L’Oréal to create an unparalleled range of beauty products and services. Today, the company boasts 36 brands and operates in 150 countries, employing 88,000 people worldwide. With annual revenues approaching 30 billion euros, L’Oréal has firmly cemented its status as the world’s leading cosmetics group.

A Global Platform for Beauty

L’Oréal’s global influence extends beyond its products, making it a highly coveted platform for models, brand ambassadors, and influencers. Many of the world’s most beautiful and glamorous women proudly represent the brand, showcasing its offerings on runways, in photoshoots, and at prestigious events worldwide.

One such event is Paris Fashion Week, where L’Oréal is a key partner. At this year’s Spring-Summer 2025 showcase, the brand once again took center stage, but with a special highlight: Nigeria’s Temi Otedola made her highly anticipated runway debut.

Temi Otedola’s Stunning Runway Debut

On Monday, Temi Otedola—Nigerian actress, model, blogger, and fashion influencer—took the fashion world by storm as she walked the runway for L’Oréal. The daughter of Nigerian billionaire Femi Otedola, Temi made history as the first-ever African Digital Ambassador for L’Oréal Paris, a role she was appointed to in June 2024. This groundbreaking position tasked her with showcasing the unique beauty of African women on a global scale.

Temi’s debut came during the prestigious Le Défilé L’Oréal Paris, also known as the ‘Walk Your Worth’ Spring-Summer 2025 Show, held during Paris Fashion Week. Her participation marked a significant moment for African representation in the global beauty industry, and her powerful presence on the runway was widely celebrated.

Paris Fashion Week and L’Oréal’s Commitment to Empowerment

Paris Fashion Week, held twice annually in the French capital, is a series of designer presentations that celebrate creativity and innovation in fashion. As an official partner, L’Oréal has long used the event as a platform to champion women’s empowerment, inclusion, and sisterhood. Each season, the brand brings together its family of ambassadors, fashion designers, and beauty experts in a dazzling display of femininity and self-worth.

Temi Otedola’s runway debut placed her alongside an illustrious lineup of international stars, including Eva Longoria, Aishwarya Rai, Cara Delevingne, Andie MacDowell, Kendall Jenner, Viola Davis, Heidi Klum, and Alia Bhatt. Following her appearance, Temi shared her excitement with her Instagram followers, posting a viral video of her confident walk and captioning it with the empowering message, “Still can’t believe I walked the #lorealparis Défilé Show.” She described the experience as a dream come true, having walked alongside women who had long inspired her.

A New Era for African Beauty

Temi Otedola’s appointment and her historic debut reflect L’Oréal’s commitment to embracing diversity and celebrating beauty in all its forms. As the brand continues to innovate and expand its global presence, it remains dedicated to creating a world where everyone, regardless of background, can feel empowered and beautiful

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FASHION, LIFESTYLE, NEWS

Epic Fashion! “Lisabi” Cast Steps Out in Regal Style for the Film’s Premiere

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The premiere of “Lisabi“, the epic historical film, was nothing short of a royal affair, as the cast stepped out in stunning, regal outfits that echoed the grand theme of the movie. From richly adorned agbadas to intricately designed dresses, the evening was a visual spectacle that celebrated the film’s heritage and the timeless legacy it portrays.

Executive produced by Adedimeji Lateef, produced by Adebimpe Lateef, and directed by Niyi Akinmolayan, “Lisabi” tells the powerful story of Lisabi, a revered figure from Igbehin, born in the Egba village of Itoku. Lisabi led the Egba people in their courageous battle for independence from the tyranny of the Alaafin of Oyo, whose empire ruled over much of Yorubaland.

The film boasts an all-star cast, including Femi Adebayo Salami, Odunlade Adekola, Ibrahim Itele Yekini, Ibrahim Chattah, Juliana Olayode, Olumide Oworu, Mr Macaroni, Eniola Ajao, Gabriel Afolayan, Roseline Omokhoa Afije (Liqourose), and Adedimeji Lateef himself.

See the stunning looks from the “Lisabi” premiere below:

https://www.instagram.com/p/DAYLPOsNHXF/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DAW2HhbovSW/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

https://www.instagram.com/p/DAWZyr8s0DO/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

ART & CULTURE, FASHION, LIFESTYLE, MUSIC, NEWS

Kwara’s Sugar Factory Film Studio to Launch ‘Dance Cinematic Universe’

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Kwara’s Sugar Factory Film Studio is set to make waves in the entertainment industry with the upcoming launch of its “Dancinematic Universe.” The project, which merges the creative elements of music videos and the cinematic storytelling of feature films through dance, is scheduled for an official unveiling in October. This innovative series promises to revolutionize the Nigerian creative landscape, blending high-energy performances with immersive storytelling.

Pilot Project: The Big Bang

The debut project within the Dancinematic Universe is a short film titled The Big Bang, set in a fictional universe. It combines dance, music, and cinematic narratives to create a unique world-building experience for viewers. This musical fantasy, inspired by a true story, follows the journey of a young creative with a vision to reshape the entertainment industry. The project aims to bring an entirely new format to Nigerian entertainment, merging transmedia storytelling and cinematic flair.

Transmedia Storytelling and World-Building

A key aspect of this initiative is its groundbreaking approach to world-building through transmedia storytelling. This method allows for the narrative to expand across multiple platforms, creating an immersive experience for the audience. According to Sugar Factory Film Studio’s Creative Director, Tunde Ayinla, professionally known as StylSlayer, this format has been modeled after global franchises like *The Boys* and Deadpool, but with an added layer of immersion tailored to Nigerian audiences.

In a statement, Ayinla explained that Sugar Factory Film Studios is positioning itself as a creative hub for intellectual properties and brands, offering a unique blend of product placement and branded content. “This is a pioneering effort to enhance the world-building of promotional storytelling,” he said.

Governor Abdulrazaq’s Support and Industry Impact

Ayinla credited Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq for his visionary leadership and ongoing support of the creative sector in Kwara. The launch of the Dancinematic Universe follows closely after Kwara secured the hosting rights for the 2024 Best of Nollywood (BON) Awards. The awards event, set to attract over 500 movie stars, producers, and industry professionals to Ilorin, will take place at the iconic Sugar Factory Film Studios—a major project backed by the Abdulrazaq administration.

Ayinla emphasized that The Big Bang serves as the cornerstone of the Dancinematic Universe, creating a new market space within the Nigerian entertainment industry. “This is a first-of-its-kind project with a cross-pollinated audience. We’re excited about the potential this brings to the industry,” he stated.

Economic Projections and Job Creation

With an early revenue projection of N5.4 billion, the Dancinematic Universe has been designed as a blue ocean project, setting the studio apart from its competitors. Beyond its commercial success, the initiative is expected to create thousands of jobs for young people in Kwara, especially within the creative sector. The production aims to foster a new generation of talent, contributing to the growth of the local and national entertainment industries.

ART & CULTURE, FASHION, LIFESTYLE, NEWS

DanHausawa Media Announces Second Edition of Miss Naija Pageant

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CEO Highlights Empowerment of Young Women

The Chief Executive Officer of DanHausawa Media Nigeria, Samaila Adoyi, has officially announced that preparations for the second edition of the Miss Naija pageant are in full swing. The pageant, designed to empower young Nigerian women, aims to provide a platform for participants to showcase their talents, intelligence, and passion for social change.

Adoyi, a music producer and the event’s organizer, shared the exciting update during a press conference held in Kaduna on Sunday. He revealed that this year’s pageant will take place in Jos, Plateau State, starting on October 19.

Pageant Theme: Empowering Women and Promoting Equality

With the theme Happy Woman’, the 2024 Miss Naija pageant seeks to inspire, empower, and celebrate womanhood, while also promoting gender equality and women’s rights. According to Adoyi, the pageant is not just about beauty, but about amplifying the voices of women and supporting causes that resonate with them.

“We believe that with the right platform, young Nigerian women can influence society, drive positive change, and inspire others,” said Adoyi, emphasizing that the pageant aligns with the broader mission of empowering women and creating a lasting, positive impact on society.

Criteria for Contestants

Adoyi outlined the essential qualities that contestants must possess to be considered for the Miss Naija crown. He explained that participants must demonstrate beauty, passion, intelligence, confidence,and a strong sense of social responsibility. The role of Miss Naija, he noted, goes beyond the title, as it involves championing societal causes that benefit the community at large.

Reflecting on the success of the 2023 inaugural edition, Adoyi praised the event for its positive impact, noting how it inspired young women across Nigeria. Last year’s winner, Nana Firdousi, was awarded a prestigious scholarship to study abroad, further demonstrating the pageant’s commitment to empowering young women through education.

Exciting Prizes for 2024 Contest

For this year’s edition, Adoyi unveiled an impressive array of prizes for the contestants. The 2024 Miss Naija winner will receive a cash prize of N3 million, various endorsement deals, and a brand-new car with a driver. Additionally, Adoyi assured potential participants that the selection process would be fair, transparent, and standardized.

Registration for the event requires a fee of N15,000, and Adoyi encouraged young women across Nigeria to seize this opportunity to make a difference in their communities while showcasing their talents on a national stage.

As preparations continue for the highly anticipated event, the 2024 Miss Naija pageant promises to be an inspiring celebration of womanhood and a platform for driving positive social change in Nigeria.