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ALTON

MASONCATWALK’S GOLDEN BOY!

PART II

LAGOS 2019

After being scouted on Instagram in 2016 while studying dance and acting at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy in Los Angeles, American Model/Dancer, Alton Mason has walked the runways of the biggest names in fashion. Specially selected by the late Karl Lagerfield, himself and Pharrell Williams are the first black males to model for Channel. Alton recently walked the ARISE FASHION WEEK runway here in Lagos with Naomi Campbell and spoke to FUNKE BABS-KUFEJI about his time on the runway.

Society

CONTENTDAY 1PG 4-7

DAY 2PG 8-11

DAY 3PG 16-20

SPONSORSZENITH BANK

MARTEL

MAYBELINE

GARMENT CARE

AQUAFINA

CIRCA

MA

KEU

P BY

MAY

BELI

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OU

TFIT

BY

RUTH

OSI

ME

One of my favourite designers in the last ARISE Fashion Week, MAISON ARTC, made a profound statement in one of the Designers Interviews in this edition. He said “Designers have to see the opportunity in it. Take it seriously and understand that ARISE Fashion Week is a very good platform to show your collection that can open new doors for you. Some shows I felt were not strong enough, lack of attention. People have to see it as a bigger opportunity not necessarily just a show to come to just for the fun of it because it’s not Paris or Turkey. Usually from the unexpected places, comes bigger opportunity than the places you expect they will.” I couldn’t agree more to this statement because it is so true. No matter the level of any show designers participate in, they must always put their best foot forward and treat every show with the same respect, determination and execution of their collection. A collection does not lie. It reveals everything about the designer’s state of mind at the time they were being made. Which is why some of such collections were either stronger or weaker than the one last seen. I cannot emphasize enough how serious and important it is for every designer to always remain on top of their game at all times. The industry is fiercely competitive just like every other sector of business and there are young emerging designers springing up everyday ready to grab the crown! To dominate in any industry on a continual basis requires research, capacity building and a lot more. This explains why some design houses employ new hands to create more relevance for their brands to stay on top. A collection, must tell a story, send a message and be cohesive. Once one of the three is missing, it’s back to the drawing board to earn the stripes you once had.

I hope all designers, both the established and emerging will take a leave from Maison ARTC’s quote and keep their fingers permanently on the pulse button. 

FASHION DIRECTOR/EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Executive ProducerNAOMI CAMPBELL

Creative Director (International)DESIREE EJOH

Creative Directors RUTH OSIME GRACE OSIME

Show ProducerCHARLOTTE LUROT

Production DirectorSTEPHEN SPENCER

Senior ProducerCARMEN HANNEMANN

Fashion Producer/Project LeadBOLAJI ANIMASHAUN

StylistsVERONICA EBIE-ODEKAAFUA RIDA KANAYO EBIDANIEL OBASSIMOSES EBITE EBIYOU

Model ManagementBETH MODEL AGENCY(ELOHOR AISIEN)

MakeupMAYBELLINE (BIMPE ONAKOYA)

Logistics NENESI IBRU

PressKONYE NWABOGOR FUNKE BABS-KUFEJIZINA ANUMUDU

PhotographersBENNET RAGLINREZE BONNAKUNLE OGUNFUYI

ARISE TALKS CoordinatorsORODE IMEVBORENAFISAH MOHAMMED

Project CoordinatorsJOANNA MACGREGORTEMITAYO ISHOLA

Art DirectorsCHUKS ONWUDINJOMATHIAS ARCHIBONG

Accessories Manager/Creative Director’s AssistantVANESSA COLEHAMRA OBAIGBENA

Creative Director (Social Media)NURU LAB

Social Media TeamSEGUN ADEYEMOVICKY ADEGBOLACOLLINS

Presentation ManagerSEUN

Collection ManagersOLAFARE OLAGBAJUKUNLE

Social Media InternsMEYIWA KPIASICHIOMA OBIKEERIC IHAZAJACOB KELLYJESUSEUNAMIRA MOHAMMED OMIETE BRIGGSNONYE TONTO OVUSONJOHN ISAACMOTUNRAYOALEXPETER ACHADEOLA ADELEGLEN TABOTJIM DAVIDVICTOR LAWSONORE ADEOKUNNANIA NEEBERWILSON ONWUKA

Backstage TeamDIKE OGANIRULAURETTA ORJICOSMAS EROMOSELEIFEOMA KALULAURAJOSHUA DAVIDJOHN CHIBEZEWILLA EMMANUELOLUWALANA OLUSEGUNEDEM LOUISAKHEREBLESSING DIKEIFE ADEPARUSITOLUWANI OLABANJIORE ADEOKUNLYDIA GAHANCASSIDY CHI

ARISE TEAM

Unarguably one of Africa’s foremost fashion events, the ARISE Fashion Week 2019 was nothing short of a fashion extravaganza. From the world’s most famous supermodel Naomi Campbell, to notable fashion houses from not only Africa but from all over the world, partook in the show. It was once again clear for everyone to see why the ARISE Fashion Week stage is called “the most beautiful runway in Africa”

Currently in its fifth edition, ARISE Fashion Week is recognised as the most prominent fashion show in Africa, famed for handpicked curation of exclusive style, fresh and renowned talent, as well as acclaimed international names in fashion.

It is our pride to say that the continent’s fashion industry became truly global with the birth of ARISE, the synonym for “Africa Rising”.

This year, ARISE Fashion Week partnered with brands like Zenith Bank, Martell, Darling Nigeria, Circa Non Pareil, Garment Care and Maybelline New York.

ARISE FASHION WEEK 2019

NAOMI CAMPBELL

DELE MOMODU IFEANYI ADEFARASIN TITI OLAPADE, AYONA TRIMNELL, PAT FANIRAN & VAL ORJI

ABIOLA KOLA DAISI

ESOSA ANENIH DAKORE AKANDE JENNIFER OLIZE LAILA JOHNSON ONO BELLO TOKE MAKINWA

WOLE AKANDE & MAUREEN EDU

DAVID TLALE JOELLE MARY EDORO HAKEEM BELO-OSAGIE EZINNE CHINKATA

BIOLA ALABI TOSEEN ADEGITE

DEOLA BALI

OGUGUA OKONKWO, CHALYA SHAGAYA

ANDRE LEON TALLY NAOMI CAMPBELL

BY KONYE CHELSEA NWABOGOR

TONY ELUMELU SEGUN AWOLOWO FEMI OTEDOLA JULIE & AMAJU PINNICK

MAIDEN IBRU

MO ABUDU

OSCAR & WANDA IBRU

PHOTOS: REZE BONNA

ESTEBAN CORTAZAREsteban Cortazar is a world acclaimed fashion designer. He was born in Bogota, Colombia but grew up in Miami, Florida. Cortazar is the youngest designer to have shown at Miami International Fashion Week. He studied at the Design and Architecture Senior High School in Miami and by the age of 15, he had designed a15 piece collection for a school talent show. Cortazar then moved big time into fashion, backed by wealthy friends in Florida. Cortazar’s designs graced the ARISE Fashion Week runway and he was excited to share his experience at the show with FUNKE BABS-KUFEJI.

This is your first time in Nigeria and Lagos. What has your experience been like?The experience has been amazing. I have been so inspired by the people mostly, they are incredible, and their style is fantastic. I think Africa in general is really the future and there is such diversity within the continent which make it incredible to be here in Nigeria one of the main important places in Africa. It’s really exciting because I have never been here. Life is new, there is a new arise of this market in this country.

Having being part of the ARISE Fashion Week , what are your thoughts about the fashion designs, styles and models on the runway?The models were my favourite part, you have the most incredibly looking models which is amazing and I saw amazing talents, great clothes and beautiful work.

It is an annual fashion show, what did you take away from participating in the show?It’s different, fresh and an emerging market. More designers should take the opportunity to be a part of it so as to be a part of the market when it booms. I definitely will love to come back. It was fun.

How would you describe the ARISE Fashion Week? It’s upcoming, exciting and it really celebrates culture in a very open and general way. I consider it part of what the future holds.

Is there anything in particular you would like to see done differently next year?I think there is always room for improvement in organization and logistics. It’s a challenging project in general and I can only imagine what the team went through to put up a show of this magnitude. Fashion shows, to get it really well done, demands a lot of organization, so gradually that will definitely get better and tighter over time.

INTERVIEWS - DESIGNERS

AIZE OGBEBOR ARTSI IFRACH FADE OGUNRO JULIE OLANIPEKUN

MPHO LAING LANRE DA SILVA MAI ATAFO

MARY EDORO

MOSES EBITE

MOSES EBITE TSEMAYE BINITIE & TOKYO JAMES

SOLA ADEWUNMI

NKWO ONWUKA

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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, 8774 Sunday, May 5, 2019

MAISON ARTC Artsi Ifrach is a Marrakech-based designer originally from Israel. He earned national acclaim for his label Maison ARTC. The fashion label showcases his handcrafted, one-of-a-kind pieces made of vintage fabrics, family heirlooms and materials sourced from flea markets around the globe. Visiting Nigeria for the very first time, Artsi shares his excitement about the emerging fashion capital that is Lagos and the opportunities he see for designers like himself at the annual ARISE Fashion week. He speaks to FUNKE BABS-KUFEJI about it all and more.

Is this your first time in Nigeria and what has been your experience thus far?Yes, it is my first time in Nigeria. I find it beautiful and developing and also spicy like the food. There is a lot of freedom which I love. It’s fantastic and I see a great future, I love it very much.

This is your first time participating in ARISE Fashion Week, what are your thoughts on the show?I absolutely loved it! It was very inspiring, it’s very fresh, very new, though there is so much to still do. It’s a different feeling, so much excitement. I feel something new happening.

How will you compare the with other Fashion Weeks you have been a part of?I think other international shows don’t have the kind of freedom ARISE has because they come with a lot of experience. Everybody comes prepared, they project what will happen and this can be very judgmental. ARISE Fashion Week is different because it’s not all about judging to see who’s designs are better but about seeing the pure talent in the art of fashion designing, which is the whole essence of fashion and its very exciting.

Now that you have been a part of the show this year, what will you like to see happen next year?Firstly, I will say the designers have to take themselves very seriously. If they get invited they have to respect the person who invited them. Designers have to see the opportunity in it. Take it seriously and understand it’s a very good platform to show your collection and that it can open new doors for you. Some collections, I felt were not strong enough, lack of attention. People have to see it as a bigger opportunity not necessarily just a show to come to just for the fun of it because it’s not Paris or Turkey. Usually from the unexpected places comes bigger opportunity than the places you expect they will.

If you were to summarise the show what will you say?It’s an excellent platform to be on and the best is yet to come!

INTERVIEWS - DESIGNERS

MWINDAJoelle Ngolatsie is a Congolese fashion designer and founder of Mwinda. Raised between Congo-Brazzaville and South Africa, she is currently based in Dubai. The young dedicated designer who showed for the first time on the ARISE Fashion Week platform, is a Business Management Major, but her passion for fashion cultivated right from childhood. During the show, she had spoke to KONYE CHELSEA NWABOGOR about her first visit to Lagos, Nigeria and her plans for breaking into the Nigerian market.

This was your first time on the ARISE Fashion Week platform. What was the experience like? 

I always dreamed and wished for my first fashion show and wondered where, how, what it would be like. And I couldn’t have asked for anything better than ARISE Fashion Week, I’ve experienced awesome moments here that not only will never be forgotten but also would be marked as a pillar of my humble beginnings.

With that being said I never thought in a million years that, I’d have a ‘’Carrie Bradshaw moment’’ on my first show and trip on the runway. As if ARISE Fashion Week was not special to me enough now I have that beautiful memory to cherish as well. And a special bond with both Lagos and ARISE Fashion Week.

How do you want women to feel when wearing your clothes?I want women to feel empowered, and unique. I want my clothes to bring

out their most hidden and profound confidence. I really hope that they would get out of their comfort zone and ways of dressing, and dare to wear a new and fresh idea, and have fun with it.

How do you think this would contribute to the growth of your brand? The contribution is endless; it has made me grow instantly, and given me

the boost of confidence I didn’t even know I was lacking. I’m going back with a determined mind to do better and work harder and the knowledge of being appreciated and supported by people such as Naomi Campbell and ARISE Fashion Week. I feel like my work is being seen finally and my brand is acknowledged. The feedbacks and attentions are terrific. Naomi and the wonderful people that have worked to make this happen placed us on the map. Thank you to each and everyone of them.

What are your thoughts as regards the Nigerian Fashion industry? ‘’Le niveau est haut’’ as we say in French the level is high. WOW!! They are

amazing!! I knew Nigerians were talented but wow! ‘’Le niveau est très haut ‘’, the level is very high. I love that everything goes. I love that they are no barriers. I love that we are able to explore different minds and creative worlds. It was an outstanding journey to each of every designers mind. 

What is the story behind your collection? The awakening of a woman. It was my first Autum/Winter collection. And

it was absolutely fun designing it. I wanted this collection to be cohesive to my Spring/Summer 19, the same girl but just in winter with the urge to dress different. I aimed to remain true to my identity as a designer by keeping the coloUrs, exploring new shapes, creative open backs, with a hint of military inspiration. 

Going forward, would we be seeing more of you in Lagos? What are your plans for breaking into the Nigerian market? .

Absolutely, I feel at home here. So it’s only natural that I consider moving. (laughter). I would love to come back for the next ARISE Fashion Week and show my Lagos family that have adopted me and welcomed me so well, how I’ve grown and all that I have to offer. 

I collaborated with a Nigerian Blogger ADERINOLA, who came to watch the MWINDA show dressed in MWINDA and the response to this has been absolutely wonderful. MWINDA is a versatile brand that everyone can relate to, and Nigeria is definitely not an exception. Especially as they are so open minded, creative and like novelty as I’ve seen during ARISE Fashion Week. 

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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 8774 Sunday, May 5, 2019

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, 8774 Sunday, May 5, 2019

ODIO MIMONET With over 20 years experience in the Nigerian fashion, Odion Oseni, the creative director of foremost Nigerian Fashion brand, Odio Mimonet is certainly a household name. The goal of her latest collection on the runway was to ‘reflect beauty in the feminine form’ because each woman is unique. Mimonet’s style and designs inspire and liberate, as women across generations can express their own individuality and flair through them. As a constant focus, Odio Mimonet provides high-quality designs and pieces for the everyday woman who needs clothes that are wearable, versatile, and stylish. She still remains undoubtedly, one of Africa’s strongest designers till date. She caught up with KONYE CHELSEA NWABOGOR during the recent ARISE Fashion Week to talk about the inspiration behind her latest collection.

What was your inspiration for this collection? My inspiration is always The Strong Woman, this time around – ‘MIMI’. We

chose urban cities around the world, like Lagos, Milan, Paris London, New York as our inspiration and worked with plain dyed cotton and the African process of batik,  with different names of cities imprinted. 

We very much want the wardrobe of the urban/city girl to be functional and take a little bit of art any city she is at. 

Your designs have such a strong sense of femininity, from the silhouettes to the fabrics; soft designs that still feel empowering and strong. What goes into creating your garments?

I think the layers of a woman especially, has many facets and that for us, femininity is in essence. Softness and hardness are only descriptions. I think fluidity resonates with the malleability of any strong woman. We build and

we mould, and yet she empowers and hopefully through that, she is in return herself, empowered.

Our garment process involves dying our cotton to specific colours and small pockets of individuals are further empowered by creating wax boards with the city names or our specific designs and we apply colour dyes by hand with the batik African process of colour distribution . 

You have being on the ARISE Fashion Week since inception. How has this platform contributed to the growth of your brand? 

I believe that the ARISE Fashion Week platform has given a voice to designers, models and notable fashion houses from not only Nigeria, but Africa as a whole to speak to the world about our fashion. The platform has done really great for local brands as a collective and we pray this journey further lifts us all. 

What advice would you give other young designers hoping to get a chance to showcase their art on this platform?

Believe in your brand, trust your journey and keep at it.

TZAR

What was the inspiration behind the collection we saw on the runway? 

Uniforms. This collection explores the concept of life as a routine and how uniforms are synonymous or are a major part of anything involving a routine.

Some people would say that with the influence of social media, Fashion Weeks are no longer relevant. What’s your take on that? 

In the grand scheme of things nothing beats personal interaction especially in an industry like fashion where people who wear the clothes are a very vital element. And although it may seem like it’s dying because it has zero relevance to the way consumers shop, it’s still a way to present your newest project of that time and believe it or not, that aspect of presentation is still important. 

This is your second time showing on the ARISE platform. What impact do you believe it has had on not only your brand, but also the Nigerian fashion industry in general? 

The only thing I can say is more visibility for my brand/industry. And also accessibility to another demographic of people who wouldn’t have normally known about my brand. 

What should we expect from you next? Honestly I can’t say but I’m constantly trying to improve the quality

of my clothing. I also would love to create accessories - bags or jewelry perhaps. Or both. 

INTERVIEWS - DESIGNERS

Tzar Studios is a contemporary menswear brand. Founded in 2014, from his ineffable love for prints inspired by the ethos of the metrosexual man. The designer, Chukwuma Ian Audiffren challenges the conventional approach to menswear creating unique items that embody the purpose of form and functionality. In this interview with KONYE CHELSEA NWABOGOR, he talks about his second outing on the ARISE Fashion Week platform and the relevance of Fashion Week.

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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 8774 Sunday, May 5, 2019

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, 8774 Sunday, May 5, 2019

After being scouted on Instagram in 2016 while studying dance and acting at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy in Los Angeles, American Model/Dancer Alton Mason has walked the runways of the biggest names in fashion. He made his modeling debut at YeezySeason 3 collection, in 2016 and since then, his career has skyrocketed to him being the first black male model to walk in a Chanel runway show, which is a big deal in the fashion industry. He recently walked the ARISE Fashion week runway here in Lagos with Naomi Campbell and spoke to FUNKE BABS-KUFEJI about his time on the runway, the sights and sounds he experienced in Lagos and his love for Jollof rice, plantain and egg sauce.

ALTON

MASON

You started of as a dancer, how easy was it for you to transition from dance to modeling?

The transition from dance to modeling was not easy. I quickly realized that in order to be successful in this industry, sacrifices must be made.

Ever since I was born, I always had a passion for dance. At the age of 17, I moved to LA for college and I woke up one day and found myself interning for Laurieann Gibson; Creative Director and Choreographer for Bad Boy, Lady Gaga, Nicki Minaj, Katy Perry, etc.

While I was dancing in LA, my first big performance was at the BET AWARDS 2015 for the Bad Boy Family. People always told me I should model but my passion was for performing arts; singing, acting and dancing. I got scouted while I was interning in LA and flew to New York for Fashion Week. I went to New York with little to no money, ending up booking little to no shows. Then by the time I was at my last $20, I got a call from my agent saying “You’re confirmed for Yeezy Szn 3”.

With over three years of walking the runways and doing editorials, what was your first big break?

Aha! One would think after doing a show for Kanye West, everything would change and life would be easier but that wasn’t the reality. I didn’t know until after the fact, that expenses like comp cards, website placement, model apartment, flight to NYC, was all being billed to my account; so the money l got from the shows wasn’t mine after all! I ended up having to go back to LA. I could’ve returned defeated and heartbroken; instead, the moment I landed in LA, I was hungry and willing to hustle and grind to get back to NYC. I was in LA working a job at a call center for two weeks straight and also went back to interning for Laurieann on the side. The third week passed and I got a call from my agent saying “Alessandro Michele wants to meet you”, I was like “Who is that?” and he said “The Creative Director of GUCCI. They want to fly you tomorrow to Rome.” I stopped everything in that moment and started thanking God!

After the meeting in Rome I ended up exclusive with Gucci, I starred in their first all black campaign and also got to walk their shows during Fashion Week and I also fell in love with this girl from Kenya. This all happened because of God’s timing.

You are the first black male model to walk in the Chanel Métiers d’Artshow in New York. How were you handpicked? Is there anything in particular you did?

When I arrived on set to shoot the Karl Lagerfeld campaign, Caroline Lebar said she had a surprise for me. She was smiling and laughing, thrilled with suspense. Naturally I was anxious to know what it was but she wouldn’t tell me. As we waited for Karl’s arrival, I tried to imagine what it could possibly be? Maybe it’s a pair of leather gloves… or a cat of my own… either way, it couldn’t possibly be better than being shot by the legend himself, Karl.

Suddenly I hear Parisian accents swiftly whispering, “Karl is here… Karl est ici!” I slowly walked around the corner of hair and makeup and saw the one and only, embracing his team with hugs et bisoux. Then he turned and looked at me and said “Hello!” I smiled and said,“This is a dream come true, thank you for having me”. Karl replied with “Thank you for being here… you know you’re going to be in the show

right?”. I said… “Wait what?” He confirmed, “Yes! For Chanel, only two guys, Pharrell Williams and you.”

Both of our eyes lit up as our hands were still locked from our first acknowledgment. I looked up at his team and saw the confirmation and excitement all over their faces; waiting for my reaction…

Suddenly, the world STOPPED!

It must have been quite an experience working with the late Karl Largerfeld at, how would you describe it?

Working with Karl Lagerfield felt liberating. All of my expectations went out of the window and he was the unexpected. His grace, energy, his vibration was felt throughout the infamous library. If the day we shared was a movie, he was the thrill. What I admired the most was how down to earth he was; so easy to talk to and gave me interpretive-applied answers to all of my questions.

We shot for two days and when I changed back into my clothes after shooting, he would look me up and down and say “So chic this one…so chic”. Like what? Coming from The Godfather of fashion himself!

Karl shoots very quick, a couple fires of the camera and he has his shot. I’ll never forget when he went back to the monitor to analyze with the team; I heard him saying “Woah, oh wow!” He then turned back to me and gave me an applause and the entire studio followed. Karl Lagerfeld is one of the reasons why I fell in love with Paris.

Though this is not your first time in Lagos, it is your first time at the ARISE Fashion Week. How will you compare it to other international Fashion Weeks you have participated in?

I will never forget ARISE Fashion Week because of the amount of love and support from the models, photographers and designers.

The fashion realm should be a place of freedom, love, and experimental creativity; it’s not about competing with one another; psychological projection, and limitations. What made the difference here in Nigeria at ARISE Fashion Week was

the support, and love that each artist contributed to this creation. All the models, designers and photographers celebrated one another.

Which was your favorite of the looks you wore on the runway?

My favorite look from the runway was the green shirt with the white detailing styled by Lejenke and designed by Kenneth Ize. I wore the shirt while closing the finale with the legendary Naomi Campbell and designer Kenneth Ize!

What was your highlight of the whole show?My highlight of the entire show would be opening

the show, walking side by side with Naomi Campbell. She is the reason why I am here in Lagos today and I still can’t believe I am here with her and a part of her family.

Naomi is the ruler, the originator, the creator; she has set the bar and paved her own lane and there will never be another. It’s crazy because the way I see it; she’s the Michael Jordan of Basketball, Muhammad Ali of Boxing, Michael Jackson of entertainment, that’s why it’s so surreal to me to be here with her, and listen to her and watch her artistry as well as her business head work. I’m in love with what she’s doing for the people and I’ll never forget this time with her.

You had a chance to work with Nigerian models too during the show, what will you say about the quality of models in Nigeria and what will be your advice to them to transition into the international market.

I’ve never seen this many beautiful black people under one roof in my life. The amount of beauty from inside and out was overwhelming. I was like “Damn, look at us... we are everything.” I advise us all to remain ourselves, stay humble, and work hard. I’ll remind us all that it’s not about competing with one another but about supporting and working together because at the end of the day, it’s greater than us; it’s about the future and creating a new world for the children that aspire to do what we do.

You have also had a second chance at experiencing true African fashion, what are your thoughts on the fashion you saw?

The fashions were beautiful, you could tell that every designer took their time and created from within. I’m so excited to see who got inspired this season and which new designers we’ll see next season!

Apart from walking the runway, what other activity did you enjoy in Lagos. Did you get the chance to taste any of the local food and which was your favourite?

My go-to meal is Jollof rice, with plantain, and egg sauce. PERIOD! I can eat that all day. And I also had an unforgettable time at Tarkwa Bay with friends!

Do you still dance?Of course! And we won’t stop. Last time I danced

was literally this morning; hopping out of bed blasting ‘So mi So’ by Wande Coal

Lastly in one word described your experience at the ARISE Fashion Week 2019?

Unity

The fashion realm should be a place of freedom, love, and experimental creativity; it’s not about competing with one another; psychological projection, and limitations.

What made the difference here in Nigeria at ARISE Fashion

Week was the support, and love that each artist contributed to this creation. All the models, designers and photographers

celebrated one another.

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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 8739 Sunday, March 31, 2019C O V E RTHISDAY Style

Vol. 22, No. 8739 Sunday, March 31, 2019C O V E R

SHANELLE NYASIASE LIYA KEBEDECan you tell us a little about your self and how you inherited your beautiful black complexion?

My name is Shanelle Nyasiase, but fondly called Sias or Shanelle. I always tell people I’m mixed African because I am from South Sudan and Ethiopia and I grew up in Kenya.

As your first time participating at the ARISE Fashion week, what are your thoughts on the level of fashion and the show in general?

I had no idea it was something this big! I first heard about it from my Manager who told me Naomi Campbell and some other girls I knew were going to be a part of the show. I was further inspired to do it because it was something for Africa, and I always love to participate in anything to promote my home continent. I grew up in Africa and as an intentional model now, it’s very important to remember where I come from and give my support

On the level of fashion I saw at ARISE, I will say it was absolutely fabulous. I loved it. Every designer worked hard and it showed. Whatever it was they put on the runway, be it a T-shirt, it showed. It resonated everything African. They never once forgot the African culture, which I think is really important. I also loved the fact that it was different from what I’m used to. It didn’t depict the American or European style. I loved every show and wanted to be a part each and everyone.

As an international model that has walked the runway in major fashion cities, how would you compare it to what you experienced at ARISE Fashion Week?

It’s hard to compare because all Fashion Weeks are different. In New York, Paris or London for instance, Fashion Week is always about a week long and it is more tedious and we models work so hard. On the same day you might have fittings for different designers, you also might have to go for a casting and you might have a show. So you have to be able to juggle all on the same day and mind you, at different locations. It’s very tiring and interesting at the same time though, moving from one city to another either on a train or a car, meeting people and learning a lot about their system. So it’s different, it helps you to grow as a model but here, everything is in the same building even if you are working for 10 designers! It’s easier, people are happy, no stress and it’s something interesting which I think is every model’s dream. I could go downstairs to eat and be in a show, five minutes after, no pressure. Doing everything in the same building is really good and I love it.

Will you be back for next year show?I will love to come of course, it’s important for me

to be here and promote Africa the best and only way I know how to.

What would you say about the ARISE Fashion Week?

I would say if this fashion week happens every weekend, I would love to stay in the city. Everything and the people are beautiful and happy. Great food and weather, everything is awesomely great.

Currently ranked on the “Hot List” by models.com, South Sudanese super model Shanelle Nyasiase, born in Ethiopia and raised in Kenya is one of Africa’s international top models. She made her Fashion Week runway debut in 2017 walking for Miu Miu, Rick Owens, and Armani. In 2018, she walked the runway for the likes of Tom Ford, Jason Wu, Marc Jacobs, Burberry, Erdem, Mulberry, Gucci, Marni, Versace, Rochas, Dries Van Noten and Kenzo amongst others. In 2019 Nyasiase notably closed 2019 Balenciaga show! In this interview she talks to FUNKE BABS-KUFEJI about her life as a model and why it is necessary to promote her birth continent, Africa.

Liya Kebede is an Ethiopian-born model, maternal health advocate, clothing designer, and actress. At the era of supermodels, a term coined for the top 10 models of the 90’s, Liyah was among. One of her peers, Linda Evangelista, actually made the famous comment of “Not getting out of bed for less than $10,000 a day!” Even today, two decades later, some models still cannot command such fees! This was the category Liyah Kebede belonged in. So her presence at ARISE Fashion Week was notably exciting. Forbes identified her as the eleventh-highest-paid top model in the world in 2007, and she has appeared three times on the cover of U.S. Vogue. 

Liya moved to Paris at the age of 18 and a year later her modeling career took off. She made her runway

debut at the spring Ralph Lauren and BCBG Max Azria shows, and was also personally selected by Tom Ford for an exclusive contract for the Gucci Fall/Winter 2000 fashion show. She gained more attention as the entire May 2002 edition of Paris Vogue was dedicated to her. Kebede has been seen on the covers of Italian, Japanese, American, French and Spanish Vogue, V, Flair, i-D and Time’s Style & Design, and has been featured in ad campaigns for Gap, Yves Saint-Laurent, Victoria’s Secret, Emanuel Ungaro, Tommy Hilfiger, Revlon, Dolce & Gabbana, Escada and Louis Vuitton. In 2003, Kebede made history as the first ever-black model to represent cosmetic company Estee Lauder. She is also an activist, serving as the Goodwill Ambassador for Maternal, Newborn & Child

Health for the World Health Organization. This is not the first time Liyah has worked with ARISE. She has participated in ARISE Presentation at the Paris Fashion Week and also featured on one of the earliest covers of ARISE magazine together with Alek Wek and Naomi Campbell.

Liya also graced the ARISE Fashion Week runway showing us she still has what it takes to make clothes look good, while strutting the runway.

INTERVIEWS - MODELS

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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 8774 Sunday, May 5, 2019

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, 8774 Sunday, May 5, 2019

HIGHLIGHTS

ARISE FASHION WEEK HIGHLIGHTS BY KONYE CHELSEA NWABOGOR

ARISE Fashion Week has come and gone and this season delivered an especially eclectic mix of fashion moments to unpack. From the launch of MIMI – the diffusion line of the Odio Miomonet brand to Deola Sagoe giving us a grand finale for the books, this year’s event had a lot of fun moments to remember. Catch up on all the major highlights - in no particular order - from this season of shows.

MIMI MAKES AN AMAZING DEBUT

PYER MOSS TELLS THE STORY OF HIS SEVEN MOTHERS

DEOLA SAGOE AND KENNETH IZE WIN ARISE FASHION DESIGNERS OF THE YEAR

DAY TWO AND “THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO ANDRÉ”

Nobody knew what to expect from the debut of Odio Mimonet’s diffusion line MIMI, but what resulted was one of those unexpectedly magical moments that takes the whole room’s breath away. The Mimi line was inspired and created for the relaxed everyday Gidi girl who wants to experience the elegance of the Odio Mimonet brand but in a more casual yet stylish way.

Day three saw an emotional runway presentation from Kerby Jean-Raymond, designer of New York based fashion label Pyer Moss . He unveiled a new short film titled Seven Mothers, created in conjunction with Director X. The eight-minute visual is inspired by chapters in Jean-Raymond’s own life, and pays tribute to the seven women who helped raise him after the untimely death of his mother at the age of seven.

Dissecting themes of love and strength, the film, which was shot in Brownsville, New York, opens with a funeral scene, and then pans to sequences of the seven women that contributed to the growth of Jean-Raymond.

The short film also exchanges nostalgic stories about the designer and his neighborhood, while all characters featured are adorned with Pyer Moss pieces throughout to further promote the designer’s latest SS 19 collection which channels decades of black excellence.

The climax of the show was the announcement of Deola Sagoe and Kenneth Ize as ARISE Fashion Designers of the Year. This award came with a whooping sum of ten million naira each courtesy Zenith Bank Nigeria. The announcement was made by the bank’s Managing Director, Mr. Ebenezer Onyeagwu, while reiterating the bank’s decision to back all designers who participated in the event with flexible facilities to assist them while growing their brands.

You don’t get up and say, ‘‘Look, I am black and I am proud. You just do it, and somehow it impacts the culture.” American fashion icon and journalist Andre Leon Talley declared this in the documentary about his life and career titled The Gospel According to Andre. The movie, which was screened on the second day of the ARISE Fashion Week, featured archival footages of Andre Talley and interviews with close confidants including well-known designers talking at length about his impact and legacy in the fashion world and American culture at large. Andre’s interview with Biola Alabi of ARISE News, was riveting to say the least as he held the audience spellbound with his larger-than-life personality!

WIZKID AND WANDE COAL ON THE RUNWAYNo, they weren’t there to model but to thrill the crowd with their hit tracks and turn the fashion show into a mini concert for the period both their performances lasted. Needless to say, they

ODION OSENI, LIYA KEBEDE AND MODELS

PYER MOSS ON THE RUNWAY

KERBY JOHN RAYMOND AND LAILA JOHNSON

WIZKID AND NAOMI CAMPBELL

NDUKA OBAIGBENA, WANDE COAL AND RUTH OSIME

WIZKID BIOLA ALABI AND ANDRE LEON TALLEY

RUTH OSIME, ANDRE LEON TALLEY, NAOMI CAMPBELL

ALTON MASON, KENNET IZE AND NAOMI CAMPBELL

EBENEZER ONYEAGWU, DEOLA SAGOE AND NAOMI CAMPBELL

WANDE COAL

created a frenzy of excitement at their performance which added even more spice to an already flavoured evening.

N10MILLION!

REWARD

N10MILLION!

REWARD

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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, 8774 Sunday, May 5, 2019

FROM THE LENS OF REZE BONNABY KONYE CHELSEA NWABOGOR

ARISE Fashion Week – a Nigerian showcase of African fashion from across the continent – was clearly the place to be seen over the Easter weekend, with attendees and participants including everyone from Naomi Campbell, Andre Leon Talley, Liya Kebede, Alton Mason and Edward Enninful.

Photographer Reze Bonna was backstage to capture a few of the gorgeous pieces before they got on the runway. His shots depict not only the depth and diversity he witnessed but also some major fashion moments

Here, we present some of the greatest moments he captured: from phenomenal eclecticism to gothic glamour. Indeed, depth and diversity in abundance.

ACKSTAGEB

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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 8774 Sunday, May 5, 2019

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, 8774 Sunday, May 5, 2019

PANEL DISCUSSION

ARISE FASHION WEEK TALKSBY NAFISAH MOHAMMED

For the first time in its history, ARISE Fashion Week hosted a series of panel discussions running alongside the runway shows. Titled the ARISE TALKS, the event, held in a dedicated space, provided an intimate, close-up opportunity for the Fashion Week crowd – designers, influencers, media and a host of others to listen to speakers across a broad range of sectors discuss the fashion industry.

The Talks began with opening remarks from the Chairman of ARISE Media Group, Nduka Obaigbena which was swiftly followed by the first session; From Retail to Export: Building a Sustainable Market. Moderated by Segun Awolowo, the CEO of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council, panelists included Okechukwu Enelamah, the Honourable Minister of Trade and Investment; Ituen Basi, CEO and lead designer of her eponymous fashion label; and Barbara Barungi, MD and Lead Economist at Imara Africa Consulting.

Speaking to an audience which included illustrious names as Maiden Ibru, the Publisher of the Guardian Newspapers; Keem Belo-Osagie, the philanthropist and financier; and Wale Babalakin, the Pro-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Awolowo acknowledged the fashion industry as the fastest-expanding sector in Nigeria, encouraging designers and other industry stakeholders to find a partner on order to maximise productivity and creativity. The Minister, discussing plans for government funding for small businesses, admitted the necessity of support for the fashion industry as there were not enough jobs being created for the sheer number of people looking for work, reassuring the audience; ‘’As a government, we are serious about this.’’ A recurring theme amongst the panel and audience was the inability of ‘creatives’ to understand the financial and managerial aspects of running their business with Basi saying there was a ‘’disconnect.’’ Barungi sounded a note of optimism, saying she heartened by Nigerian designers breaking barriers across Africa.

There was a discernable buzz for the second session as Naomi Campbell took to the stage as one of the panelists. Accompanied by Funsho Olusanya, Executive Director, FSDH; Reni Folawiyo, CEO Alara Concept Store and Barbara James, CEO Henshaw Capital Partners on stage, with LailaJohnson-Salami moderating, the veteran supermodel said she was delighted to be at Arise Fashion Week once again and was serious about

giving opportunities to young emerging designers. Discussing the Business of Fashion, James advised designers on what type of financial investment to seek out at the different stages of their business. She proposed a $1 billion fund ring-fenced for the fashion industry to reflect its importance to the Nigerian economy, reminding the audience that fashion industry stakeholders were competing with the likes of the oil sector for available bank loans. Olusanya explained that banks were looking beyond talent to getting returns on any investments made. Still on the theme, Folawiyo sounded a note of concern the quality of production

within the industry. ‘’We see so many beautiful pieces that have issues, we can’t sell them as they are too expensive for what they are.’’ She challenged designers to build capacity saying that talent had exploded exponentially but everything else was still playing catch up.

A short video was played from the President of Gucci stating the Italian group’s aim of establishing a Fellowship Program at the University of Lagos. The session ended on a high with Campbell announcing the arrival of African Vogue, according to the Chairman of Conde Nast, the Publishers of the magazine.

Day 2 started with The Essence of Design and Textiles: preservation, protection and the advancement of craftsmanship. Moderated by Olivia Singer, Executive Fashion News Editor, Vogue USA, panelists included Liya Kebede, the supermodel and activist, Deola Bali, the MD of Garment Care drycleaners; Niyi Okuboyejo, designer of Post Imperial fashion line and Head designer of Maison Arcts Discussions centred around the quality and standardisation of garments, the development of textile mills across

the continent and the importance of Africans to hold the rights to their own textiles.

Finally, Andre Leon Talley, the former Editor-at-Large of Vogue, took to the stage. Regaling the audience with anecdotes and gossip from his years at the forefront of the fashion world, he declared himself very happy to be in Nigeria and would return to Arise Fashion Week with his good friend, Naomi Campbell.

BARBARA BARUNGI, OKECHUKWU ENELAMAH, ITUEN BASI & SEGUN AWOLOWO

FUNSHO OLUSANYA, RENI FOLAWIYO, NAOMI CAMPBELL, BARBARA JAMES & LAILA JOHNSON SALAMI

DEOLA BALI, NIYI OKUBOYEJO, LIYA KEBEDE, MAISON ARTC & OLIVIA SINGER LIYA KEBEDE, NDUKA OBAIGBENA & NAOMI CAMPBELL

BY FUNKE BABS-KUFEJI

This “relationship thing” between men and women rankles, because we have dropped the ball.

Whatever happened to the traditional ways of chasing women? What is wrong with man meets woman he likes her and sets out to “toast” her, makes her feel like she is the best thing since sliced bread.

I hear sending naked pictures to men (via stolen telephone numbers) begging them to notice “the goods on offer” is trending..... why then will these men want to sweat the process and “chase” when available flesh is screaming “do me”, and they in turn go for “pay banging”.

I remember the days when the chase was part of the game and men actually played, the days when love meant deep affection not just an heart shaped emoji and deceptive words, the days when vulgar was frowned at and not embraced and celebrated. Did we women provoke this turn of events or the world just went “south”...

There is a man somewhere in the south south who has a live in doctor who takes the blood of the women he takes to his guest house, checks them for STDs before he “beds” them, then pays them off and shoos them out after he has had his orgy........the oldest profession with a medical icing, if it wasn’t ludicrous it will be ridiculous.

The cesspool we find ourselves speaks to the miry clay world we live in, when you attempt to be different, you are labelled and ostracised, muck becomes us it seems and many love the feel.

We have missed it, if we think we need to trade our bodies for returns, then there is something fundamentally wrong, we need to go back to the drawing board and draw up a life plan that will arrest this delusion.

Woman, do not allow any man treat you like the latest waste in his basket, for a crust of bread. Go against the grain, and crash the wheel.

Many claim they don’t respect “particular” women because respect begets respect, they say and my point continues to be that if a woman is “packaged wrong” rather than misuse and abuse her, “repackage her right”, don’t treat her wrong, if you do, you will become her accomplice because you’re no better than the woman you’re turning your nose up at, you just slept with her for pete’s sake, you merged her soul with yours.

It is time to apply the brakes and advise ourselves, no finger pointing here, just a prompting toward redirection, yes we have stumbled and fallen flat on our faces but it’s time to get up and dust up.

Times are hard no doubt and putting our bodies on offer for the next “bozo” may be mind boggling in terms of returns but the old adage that says; you get away with nothing was not just faffing around with words because you indeed reap what you sow.

When life throws you into a corner leaving you with very few choices, invent new ones because the moment you lose yourself to the lure of lucre you lose yourself period.

We are ALL battling different demons thus work in progress but we must not allow anyone treat us like trash in the name of “Joneses repping”..... “Female pride matters”.....

Men are hunters by nature, please change your narrative and do not become their game, do not agree to be housed in a garbage dump, even the garbage hate the address.

We have women holding their own in business, in the corporate world, women who are trailblazers, women who are climbing up in all areas of endeavour, making waves, working hard, we should aim to emulate those.

You can dream big girl, you can birth your dream albeit through sweat, you can grow and nurture this dream and one day you will be all that you want to be, a “Lady Boss” doing your own thing without contaminating it with grime. “Female pride

CAPSULESAlero Adolloaleroadollo@yahoo.com

Colours of Life

Zacchaeus was a boss at the Inland Revenue Office of Jericho. Business owners dreaded the tax season because of him. Whenever the deadline for filing tax returns approached, everyone got jittery at the thought of his visit. Zacchaeus, on the other hand, looked forward to this season. He enriched himself by taking advantage of the multiple taxation system. Zacchaeus made personal gain extorting money from people and cutting deals with tax defaulters.

One day he heard commotion in the streets. Apparently, Jesus was passing through Jericho. Zacchaeus had heard of this man who claimed to be God. He had heard that Jesus healed the sick, raised the dead and performed all manner of miracles. Zacchaeus told himself he had to take advantage of this once-in-a-life time opportunity to catch a glimpse of Jesus.

Zacchaeus left his desk in the tax office and joined the crowd in the streets. Because he was small in stature, Zacchaeus climbed a sycamore tree to see Jesus. To His amazement Jesus began to walk in his direction. This was almost unbelievable. But that was apparently just the beginning. This tax collector could never have imagined what would happen to him on this day that began just like any other. He was about to receive the shock of his life. Jesus made his way towards Zacchaeus. Then he stopped, looked up into the sycamore tree and said:

5 “Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.” Zacchaeus could not believe what he just heard. He was besides himself. At once confused and overwhelmed he highlighted from the tree immediately and gladly welcomed Jesus to his home.

7 All the people saw this and began to mutter, “He has gone to be the guest of a sinner.” Luke 19:5-7

On another occasion Jesus was a dinner guest at the home of a Pharisee when a woman of easy virtue arrived on the scene. She was carrying an alabaster jar of perfume. Then she began to weep, wetting Jesus feet with her tears. To the surprise of the onlookers she proceeded to wipe His feet with her hair and even poured the perfume on His feet. But what was shocking was the fact that Jesus did nothing to dissuade her.

39 When the Pharisee who had invited him saw this, he said to himself, “If this man

were a prophet, he would know who is touching him and what kind of woman she is—that she is a sinner.” (Luke 7:39)

Jesus needed to pass through Samaria because he had an appointment with a woman at a well there. This woman was the centre of gist in the tabloids and on social media. The women of Samaria kept their men away from her while the men found her irresistible. They did not seem to mind that she had had 5 failed marriages. In fact, she was on to a new relationship. Jesus engaged this woman in dialogue. Using the analogy of water, He preached the gospel to her. She believed, received a new lease of life and went round the city telling others about Jesus. Through her testimony, many people also believed.

Jesus’s habit of hanging out with sinners infuriated the religious folk of His day. This unbecoming behaviour earned him the infamous sobriquet – Friend of sinners.

If we were asked to mention the name of Jesus, our list would likely include names like King of Kings, Lord of Lords, Lion of the tribe of Judah, Good shepherd, Bread of Life, Light of the world and so on and so forth. We are unlikely to call Him Friends of Sinners and yet He earned that name from his conduct.

When He was questioned about his ‘irreligious’ conduct, Jesus’ response was that He came for the ‘sick’ and not for those who are already ’whole’.

God came down in human flesh and lived in our midst to demonstrate how His followers ought to live on earth.

As long as we are in the world, we cannot live in isolation and God never intended us to. Rather, His plan is for us to permeate the world like yeast does to dough and make the difference to the mix.

This revelation should affect the way one behaves in the office. Rather than fight that unbelieving boss, we should strive to excel on the job so that he or she would be drawn to the God we serve. We should live at peace with our flat mates and colleagues so that our lifestyle draws them to our God. The way we relate to other Christians should be a witness of the love of God in our hearts.

Though He was often with sinners, Jesus did not sin. Rather, He used every opportunity to tell those He interacted with about the Kingdom of His Father.

As He was a friend of sinners, so should every Christian also be.

FRIEND OFwith Koko Kalango

SINNERS

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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 8774 Sunday, May 5, 2019

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, 8774 Sunday, May 5, 2019

GLO AD