Deola Sagoe
Deola Sagoe is a dominant force in the Nigerian fashion industry and remains an inspirational figure to all. The haute couture designer began designing in 1989, and since then, she has gained international fame for her lively, dynamic, and colorful designs, as well as her uncanny attention to detail. Her work has received widespread acclaim, winning both the Best Costume Designer at the 2015 Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards and Achievement in Costume Design at the 11th Africa Movie Academy Awards for the film “October 1.” Additionally, her creativity has been acknowledged in other places, recently being appointed to represent Nigeria in a new international campaign organized by the United Nations World Food Program titled “Catwalk the World: Fashion for Food.”
The iconic designer established her own leading specialist fashion company: Deola Sagoe Limited. The company prides itself on its innovative designs and the way it incorporates genuine and exclusive fabrics. Her company has been recognized as a beacon for altering structures in Africa’s fashion industry.
Lisa Folawiyo
Lisa Folawiyo is shaping the global fashion industry. The Nigerian fashion designer is celebrated for her colorful collections that infuse traditional West African fabrics with modern fashion. She started her fashion journey with the launch of her label in 2005, and since then, she has achieved international success, winning the African Fashion Awards in 2012. Additionally, she has partnered with L’Oreal, as well as having her work showcased in Selfridges.
Mai Atafo
Mai Atafo is a Nigerian fashion tailor best known for his brand Mai Atafo, a menswear and womenswear fashion brand that focuses on creating glamorous dresses for women and well-crafted tailored suits for men. He remains a giant influence on the Nigerian fashion industry and continues to be motivated to be a visionary, as well as make groundbreaking innovations. He’s been celebrated tremendously throughout his career, winning designer of the year at the Glitz Style Awards 2013, menswear designer of the year at the Heineken Lagos Fashion and Design Week 2015, and the lifestyle/fashion icon achievement at the Abryanz Style and Fashion Awards 2017.
Ituen Basi
Ituen Basi has come to the industry with a different vibe, bringing her unique mark to Nigerian fashion. The Nigerian fashion designer has created costume designs for musical theatre, in addition to creating catwalk shows. She describes herself as a “Lagos-based designer with a taste for eclectic elegance, whimsical flair, and pure fun!” She is keen on celebrating individuality and feminism. Her work and creative mindset have earned her a range of awards, with her Ankara and Beads collection earning her “The Most Innovative Designer” in 2009.
Lanre Da Silva
Lanre Da Silva is a Nigerian fashion designer based in Lagos. In 2005, she launched a business named after herself that offers a lavish style that incorporates metallic fabrics, lace, and African patterns. Her eponymous label includes couture, ready-to-wear, jewelry, and hairpieces. Her work continues to be commemorated, with the Africa Fashion Guide recognizing her as having “created a name for herself in high fashion in Nigeria.”
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