It’s that time of year again. You’ve got a month full of birthday bashes, Christmas office dos, balls and for some reason, a random christening. And as you begin to mentally flip through your wardrobe, condemning every single dress, skirt and blazer in succession, it quickly dawns on you that you have to yet again go out and buy something new, something dressy, something that’s going to get you noticed (for the right reasons) and preferably something that no one else has.
The high street gets ran sacked by party goers everyday, resulting in a blonde and a brunette both in that £69.99 velvet asymmetric dress from Warehouse. Sad times. Cue 27-year-old, womenswear designer Nike Okesola; your saving grace in your time of need. Creator of Nike Akinola London, she combines beautiful traditional African prints and lace with creative design integrating Africa’s art, history and culture into her collections.
Her ethos; “Our sophisticated designs pay homage to the ceremonial fabrics of Africa’s history. The luxurious and extravagant designs of our culture have been given an innovative twist, creating a effortless, comfortable, and sexy style without being in-your-face. We show that African prints don’t have to be in maxi dresses to be fashionable.”
After starting the brand with her husband tCouturewo years ago, with sponsorship from the Bright Ideas Trust headed by former Apprentice winner, Tim Campbell. Nike creates high quality, beautifully cut, body flattering pieces, the perfect combination for those all important dress up occasions. A personal favourite, has to be the navy blue fitted blazer and the crème trench coat. Both pieces are classic yet eccentric and create the perfect nipped in waist shape for A/W 09. Right, I’ve got three weeks till my AU ball, I’m thinking that’s plenty of time to get an order in, find some heels, borrow the bag and get my nails done. Outfit, sorted.
To browse and buy the ready to wear and couture collections visit www.nikeakinola.com. For internship inquires email Nike Okesola at info@nikeakinola.com
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