Guardian Life Article - It Labels

There’s a general complaint consensus that everybody’s a fashion designer in Nigeria. That may or may not be so, but we genuine fashion lovers are grateful for the prolific nature of the profession because we’re seriously spoiled for choice. There are a few however, through connections, a wide network of popular friends and sheer unparalleled genius have become the labels to be seen in by the Lagos It girls/women.

CLAN

Clan has been on the scene for hardly a minute but has distinguished itself as a label to see and be seen in. Its clean lines, bold geometric designs and peek-a-boo sexy appeals to the very fashion forward, almost fururistic but still demure 21^st century lady.

Fans of Clan include Seyi Shay, Eku Edewor, Stephanie Coker and Toke Makinwa.

EJIRO AMOS TAFIRI

Ejiro Amos Tafiri is one of my personal favourites and beloved by fashion girls (and women) nationwide. The label combines traditional African fabrics and designs with modern fashion aesthetics beautifully as is evidenced by one of its most popular productions, the ‘oleku’ shirt dress which saw a collaboration between the traditional Nigerian iro and buba and the easy breezy Western shirt dress.

Fans include Tolu ‘Toolz’ Oniru , Marcy Dolapo Oni and Eva Alordiah.

ICONIC INVANITY

Iconic Invanity exploded onto the Nigerian fashion scene in a blaze of embellishment, rich beading and super luxe African fabrics. The labels outfits are definitely not wallflower friendly as they are pretty much costumes in their own right. For the girl who loves to show up and show out.

Fans include Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, Folurunsho Alakija and Agbani Darego.

GREY

Grey is a brand with a very classic style as well as a playful personality. It satisfies the need for everyday pieces and a Grey dress can take you from work to play seamlessly. I love the fact that their clothes are not overly done and they have really made a niche for themselves in catering to typically easy breezy wearable clothes.

Fans include Temi Dollface, Adora Oleh

FROCKIT ROCKIT

Frockit Rockit is sNigerian fashion’s secret weapon. This label is probably one of the most popular Nigerian labels with the widest reach and the least visibility. Frockit Rockit provides a unique service that takes you on the journey of creating made to measure outfits starting with picking your own fabric to the final stage.

Fans include yours truly, Tracy Nwapa and Tiwa Savage.

OBSIDIAN

Obsidian is definitely a line for the audacious, discerning woman. Bold use of colour and attention to detail in all the garments ensures that when you wear Obsidian you stand out.

Fans include Oreka Godis, Nicole Chikwe and Osas Ighodalo.

APRIL BY KUNBI

April By Kunbi pieces are fun, flirty and very girly. The label is a constant red carpet feature and beloved by celebrities. Its punchy use of colour and playful embellishments make this lifestyle brand a fan favourite.

Fans include Genevieve Nnaji, Gbemi Olateru-Olagbegi and Mo’Cheddah

MEENA

Meena is the deeply mysterious, seriously cutting edge fashion label. Famed for its stark simplicity, body conscious designs and intriguing cut-outs, Meena is for the space age fashionista who is not afraid to take risks.

Fans include Lamide Akintobi, Ezinne Chinkata and Ene Maya Lawani.

VIRGOS LOUNGE

Virgos Lounge is the most international young label in Nigeria today. Its influence spreads far beyond the continent and is seen widely on various international celebrities. Virgos Lounge is arguably even more popular in the UK than it is in Nigeria. The intricate beading, rich jewel tones, princess like flowing maxi dresses have made this independent label a firm favourite and the go to brand for gorgeous party dresses,

Fans include Lala Anthony, Vanessa & Angela Simmons, Meagan Goode

Photo credit: 9jahears.com, that1960schick.com, bellanaija.com