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Nigerian Fashion spotlighted on CNN: Folake Folarin-Coker of Tiffany Amber, Bola Atta of True Love and “tailor-made” fashion explored

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Like we always do at this time
I go for mine, I got to shine
Now throw your hands up in the sky
I g-go for mine, I got to shine
Now throw your hands up in the sky

Kanye West – Good Life

The Nigerian Fashion Industry is certainly experiencing the “good life” at the moment. In the past 24 months, our designers have showed in London, New York, Johannesburg and most recently, Paris. Our brands are being stocked in stores from Tokyo to Los Angeles and very importantly, young people are now proud to proclaim – “I want to be a designer/stylist/fashion editor”.
The latest grand acclaim for the Nigerian Fashion Industry was a feature on CNN International. Their new show “Marketplace Africa” which is broadcast in over 80 countries spotlighted the Nigerian Fashion Industry.
Considering the length, the feature was actually quite comprehensive with high-end Nigerian fashion being highlighted alongside “Tailor-Laurent aka My Tailor made it”.

Folake Folarin-Coker of Tiffany Amber was interviewed at the Tiffany Amber flagship store. She discussed how  “ethnicity made global friendly” makes Nigerian designs standout. CNN also visited the Tiffany Amber factory and we caught a glimpse at a part of the making of the Face of Africa dress.
Recent international success of the brand such as showing in New York was discussed. However, I found it fitting the designer highlighted that its the Nigerian market that keeps the business going. In addition, the power of branding and the launch of Tiffany Amber’s more accessible diffusion line – TAN were mentioned.

Next, CNN visited the market where ankara was proudly displayed on sale. In their words, “The root of Nigerian fashion can be found in any local market….everyone here is their own personal designer”.

We spotted Rita Dominic & Mike Ezuruonye on the Face of Africa red carpet as the voiceover explained that  huge demand for Nigerian fashion is fueled by “actresses, musicians and businessmen who want to good look for tomorrow’s gossip magazines”

Bola Atta, Editor of True Love West Africa magazine met with the CNN team while reviewing fashion for an upcoming True Love shoot. She explained that the Nigerian audience appreciates the fusion of our local culture with international trends and also acknowledged that the prices of most Nigerian high fashion is beyond the reach of most Nigerians. However, Mrs Atta explained that these items are inspiration for people to create their own looks within their budgets. She was joined by Omoyemi Akerele, Style Editor of True Love and Zara Okpara of Jewel by Lisa.

The statistics shared at the end of the feature were quite interesting. According to a recent  survey by Mastercard International, Nigerians are the only Africans that plan to increase discretionary spending (by a startling 55% over the next 6 months) . Also very interesting is that for 35% of the respondents, Fashion and Accessories is a major priority in their spending budget.

We’re really proud of everyone featured. Every positive report about the accomplishments, talents and creativity of Nigerians is definitely a step in the right direction. Feels great to see something other than our MIA president, kidnapping and looting being discussed.
Also, there are so many people who have paid their dues in the Nigerian fashion industry such as Folake Folarin-Coker and Bola Atta and its great to see them being recognized for it!

Watch and let us know what you think.

See some screencaps from the feature and check out the video below.

cnn nigeria fashion folake coker tiffany ambercnn nigeria fashion 4cnn nigeria fashion 5cnn nigeria fashion 2cnn nigeria fashion 3cnn nigeria fashioncnn nigeria fashion 6

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