KAI COLLECTIVE

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KAI COLLECTIVE- GAIA DRESS

Kai Collective is a London-based fashion brand founded by Nigerian-born designer Fisayo Longe in 2016. The brand is known for its bold prints, vibrant colors, and innovative designs that celebrates femininity and empowers women of all shapes and sizes.

The success of the brand can be traced to its founder and like most success stories there were various winding paths before the attainment of success. Before the birth of Kai Collective, Longe had her primary education in Nigeria before moving to the UK to finish her secondary school and recently completing her university education.

FISAYO LONGE- THISDAY STYLE

Prior to completing her first degree she locked a place at the university to study law but missed her grades and was fortunate to get a gap year scheme at KPMG. She spent six months working at KPMG and traveled around Asia where she got inspired to start a fashion and travel blog. Longe accepted a full-time role as an apprentice accountant at KPMG on her return where she spent two years while attending university in the summer.

She fell more in love with fashion as she grew her blog- Mirror Me and took a short-term contract at Liberty, a London-based fashion brand. In fashion, she found out she loved fabrics and was collecting them on her various travels. Longe noticed during a short course at the London College of Fashion that many clothes under review were manufactured in Turkey. She decided to explore Turkey where she found beautiful fabrics and she also sourced a manufacturer, this brought about the birth of Kai Collective.

At that time Longe was a fashion influencer with over fifty thousand followers and thought sales were going to be easy but, it was not. It took some years of persistence, consistency, introducing new products, sharing her journey, and marketing before Kai collective had its first major break in 2019.

Surprisingly in that year, Kai collective didn’t spend any money on publicity or marketing but, they received a huge amount of press coverage and acceptance in the fashion world with a lot of influencers wearing their collection.

The next year 2020, proved to be better than the preceding year for Kai Collective with the creation of the ‘’Gaia Dress’’ in alluring prints. The Gaia dress was launched in January but production was paused due to the pandemic because most of her manufacturing was done in Asia. In April 2020, with the world opening up from the pandemic as in most of Asia, the first batch was manufactured and everything was sold out instantly.

GAIA RED VELVET DRESS
KAI COLLECTIVE- SWIMWEAR
KAI COLLECTIVE- IRUN DIDI DRESS

Fisayo Longe is an Honoree of The Forbes “30 Under 30” Europe Class of 2021 and she graduated with a B.SC in Anthropology from UCL in 2022.

FISAYO LONGE- FORBES UNDER 30 HONOREE

Kai Collective offers a range of ready-to-wear clothing, including dresses, skirts, tops, and accessories. The brand is committed to sustainability and ethical production, using eco-friendly materials and working with small factories and artisans to create its collections. Kai Collective has gained a loyal following among fashion lovers and celebrities alike and has been featured in publications such as Vogue, Elle, and Harper’s Bazaar. Kai Collective has gained a global following, with fans including celebrities such as Beyonce, Naomi Campbell, and Rihanna, Saweetie, Jacki Aina, Temi Otedola and Tiwa Savage.

Here’s an interview of Fisayo Longe with Grace Beverly on Forging your path to success. i definitely learnt a lot and i hope you do.

Fisayo Longe in an interview with Grace Beverly on Forging your own path to Success.

17 AMAZING AFRICAN BRIDAL BRANDS

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1. ATAFO

ATAFO, formerly known as Mai Atafo is a multidisciplinary fashion brand that also creates bespoke tailored bridal gowns with unequaled craftsmanship that reflects the individuality of each client.

2. BRIDES BY NONA

Brides by Nona is a luxury brand based in Atlanta Georgia, that makes elegant couture gowns with authentic Swarovski crystals as one of its major aesthetics. Each garment reflects detailed craftsmanship that embodies the uniqueness of the bride.

3. ANDREA IYAMAH

Andrea Iyamah owned by Nigerian fashion designer Andrea Dumebi Iyamah is a clothing line strongly influenced by nature and ethnic culture. Founded in 2011, Andrea Iyamah adopts design elements that stay true to creating authentic clothing and resort wear that celebrate her African roots and cultures beyond. The Andrea bride is simple and sophisticated and exudes elegance.

4. HUDAYYA

Since launching in 2012, this Abuja, Nigerian-based brand caters to brides in quality tailoring and perfection in every piece. Some of the celebrities that have worn this brand are the first lady, President Buhari’s daughter Zahra, and celebrities such as Genieve Nnaji and D’ija.

5. TOJU FOYEH

Toju Foyeh is a Lagos, Nigerian-based bridal designer with unique pieces.

6. OLABISI O’DUNNE

Olabisi Odunne makes vintage and timeless bridal wears.

7. MATOPEDA

Matopeda Atelier; a fashion house based in Lagos, Nigeria that creates timeless garments. Matopeda has dressed celebrities such as; Beyoncé, Jackie Aina, Genevieve Nnaji, Porsha Williams and Adesua Etomi Wellington.

8. YEMI KOSIBAH

Osunkoya the creative director of Yemi Kosibah is greatly inspired by art, and international travel which can be seen in every piece and helps the brand cater to various clients. Various dignitaries and celebrities have turned to the brand for their memorable day including Lady Janet Boateng, Dianne Abbott MP, Alesha Dixon, Sheila Ferguson, Hollywood actresses Louise Rose and Indra Ové, Miss World Agbani Darego,and singers Stephanie Benson and Kelly Rowland. He has been named International Designer of the year by City People magazine, he has also received Diamond Recognition from National Weddings, and an Honorary Award for contributions to Fashion from Fashion Diversity.

9. ALONUKO

Alonuko is a Women’s fashion brand founded by Oluwagbemisola Okunlola a British-born Nigerian. The brand creates beautiful and stunning pieces that represent the woman in her best self.

10. SIMA BREW

If you love Romance and femininity, the Sima Brew brand is right for you. The brand brings out its customer’s femininity with a touch of romance by adding a classic modern twist to each garment.

11. PISTISGH

If you want to feel like royalty, then Pistisgh is the right brand for you.

12. ESE AZENABOR

Esé Azénabor-Grembowski is popularly known her intricate beading technique with fine stones, crystals and pearls. This brand is for lovers of art and people who appreciate haute couture and bespoke garments.

13. KOBUS DIPPENAAR

Kobus Dippenaar is a South African-born fashion designer, known to exhibit a strong interplay between masculinity and feminity in each garment while bringing out the individual beauty of every bride with so much confidence and flamboyancy.

14. AMSALE

Amasale designs which are crafted in  AMSALE’s New York City atelier are known for their elegance, simplicity, glamour and modern femininity while reflecting the bride’s personal style.

15. APRIL BY KUNBI

April by Kunbi is a one-stop bridal source and a lifestyle brand that makes exquisite garments that are timeless.

16. TUBO

Tubo is a women’s wear brand, best known for its creativity in redesigning traditional African bridal attires, chic pret a porte with an infusion of haute couture making each piece a wardrobe statement, and distinctive haute couture pieces with amazing silhouettes that bring out the uniqueness of every garment.

17. FATUMAH ASHA

Fatumah Asha is a Ugandan-based clothing brand for ladies that brings out their personality in beautiful garments.

HEINEKEN LAGOS FASHION WEEK 2022 RUNWAY SHOW

LFW

The Heineken Lagos fashion week started with its first runway show as an off-site event by Eki Kere at Alara Lagos. The stage was designed by Eki with raffia, tie-dye fabrics to depict an African village setting. The rest of the space was beautifully adorned with some of Eki Kere’s pieces and woven accessories.

The collection was titled ‘Good girl’, and the creative director- Eki spoke to us about her inspiration behind the collection. She said she was trying to play out her childhood memory, recall the beauty, fashion, art, nature, and how good it used to be before this era. Her choice of music-Forest and set design were influenced by nature in the village.

For this collection in line with the brand’s sustainability policy, local artisans in the villages were used to improve their earnings and preserve their craft. The collection featured a of lot tie-dye fabrics in bright hues with loose silhouettes mixed with raffia details on the fabrics, and accessories. Weaving was done on the scarfs to depict braided hair and the tassels were also made out of raffia. The collection had a lot of artistic and versatile pieces.

The runway show continued at the Federal Palace Hotel, Ikoyi with Kadiju, Desiree Iyama, and FIA to other designers such as Gozel Green, Emmy Kasbit, Elie Kuame, Ejiro Amos Tafari, Ajobi, Ugo Monye, Odio Mimonet who closed the on-site show by telling everyone whom the Odio Mimonet woman is in soft loose and form-fitting accentuating silhouettes, shimmery pieces, and signature fabric.

The Green Access initiative and Bestseller foundation finalist- SVL designs, Oshobor, House of Kachi, Sahrzard design, Olisa Kenya, Meta Kay, Pettre Taylor, Heru Shizi, Lulla Studio and Aorah gave a beautiful show with their various collections in bright hues, repurposed jeans, headstock fabrics, and asymmetrical cuts in various silhouettes.  Lush hair also gave a great presentation with their hair extensions on various hairstyles.

Other off-site shows were Iamisigo, Dye Lab, Sisiano, Lagos Space Programme, Andrea Iyamah, Imad Eduso, and Banke Kuku. As we approached fashion week, I was looking forward to someone interpreting us as a people in our togetherness which Banke Kuku did with new prints in various colors and new silhouettes.  Banke Kuku’s show started with the Banke Kuku and Gabrielle Union’s collaboration and continued with the spring summer 2023 collection which pays homage to Nigerian Culture Unity; Diversity in Harmony.

“Banke Kuku’s hand-drawn prints for SS23 are thoughtfully designed to record moments in history and depict the stories of Africa through stunning garments and accessories. By weaving a symbolic thread between local artisanal tailoring and organic craftsmanship, this collection further typifies the designers commitment to collaboration.  In parallel to Banke Kuku’s drive towards a unified Nigeria, the designer explores the intersectional relationship between the multitude of tribes and cultures within the country.

The designs in the collection envision a world where “Unity” is a verb, and the concept of “diversity in harmony’’ is brought to life. The feather print which is inspired by the Eagle feather is an ode to Igbo culture. This motif is intertwined with the Bead print which represents the intricately complex beaded craft in the northern, Hausa region of Nigeria. Both prints are layered with the Yoruba flower which is a floral motif found on the throne of traditional Yoruba Kings from the Southern regions.

All the elements are drawn together by the hibiscus flower print; a beautiful flower common to all tribes that is rich in healing properties and is a symbol of healing across Nigeria. Akin to the designer’s vision, the creative process and materiality are paramount and each piece within the collection has been designed with meticulous detailing. Traditional tribal silhouettes are seen throughout the collection, whilst classic staples such as the pyjama sets make an updated reemergence for SS23’’.

As a first time attendee at the Heineken Lagos Fashion week, it was totally worth it. The organizers are doing a great job of fostering the fashion business on the continent. It was well organized and communication was seamless. All the models did well in bringing each piece to life. The designers did a fantastic job with their collections as I wanted almost everything I saw. Networking was very good as everyone was willing to meet new people and exchange ideas. Heineken Lagos Fashion week is definitely a worthy fashion destination in Africa.

Eki Kere at Heineken Lagos fashion week 2022

Eki Kere at Heineken Lagos fashion week 2022

7 UNIQUE REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD ALWAYS HAVE FRESH FLOWERS

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A beautiful bouquet of fresh flowers

My earliest memory of flowers was when I was a child in primary school. One of my chores amongst many others was taking care of the plants and when we stayed over at my Aunty’s place, I was also given such responsibility. It felt nice sometimes when we did it together as a family but other times it felt like hard work because the flowers had to be properly tended to while I was scolded for flower(s) that weren’t well cared for. As I grew up I began to appreciate flowers and nature.

Here are some of the reasons why I love fresh flowers:

There’s a beautiful feeling when you are presented with flowers and it gets better when you find out they are real. Walking into a space filled with beautiful floral arrangements or having a beautiful scenery of flowers stirs up great things in you, and gives the space a nice aura.  It gives you depth to think and brightens your mood if you were moody already. I guess that’s why John Harrigan said ‘’Happiness held is the seed; Happiness shared is the flower’’.

  1. FLOWERS BEAUTIFY A SPACE.
  2. FLOWERS COMPLIMENT YOUR INTERIOR DECOR.
  3. FLOWERS CLEAN THE AIR.
  4. FLOWERS SERVE AS UNIQUE GIFTS.
  5. FLOWERS HELP TO CONVEY BEAUTIFUL MESSAGES.
  6. FLOWERS IMPROVE YOUR CREATIVITY AND PRODUCTIVITY.
  7. FLOWERS HELP TO STRENGTHEN RELATIONSHIPS.

1. FLOWERS BEAUTIFY A SPACE

A bouquet of flowers to beautify any space

Have you ever wondered how the world would have been without flowers? A close imagination will be the desert, but even the desert has plants and flowers that grow there. Flowers are nature’s gift and they come in various colors, shapes, and varieties that’s why they add extra beauty to any space they occupy.

2. FLOWERS COMPLIMENT YOUR INTERIOR DECOR

beautiful living room floral arrangement
White hydrangeas to compliment the bedroom
Beautiful floral arrangement to enhance the look in the kitchen

Having fresh flowers at strategic places in your living room, kitchen, corridor, and bedroom improves your home decoration, it adds to your personality and says a lot about you as a person.

3. FLOWERS CLEAN THE AIR

Spider plant
Snake plant
Peace Lily

It’s a known fact that flowers smell good and add a nice smell to any space and some plants such as Spider plants, Peace lilies, and Snake plants are known for cleaning and removing harmful toxins in the air because they give a large amount of oxygen which helps to improve sleep at night.

4. FLOWERS SERVE AS UNIQUE GIFTS

Birthday flower bouquet

Presenting a bouquet of flowers on any occasion such as birthdays, Weddings, Milestone achievements, Bridal, and Baby showers is always a worthy gift. You immediately get a huge smile and a sense of appreciation that is worth more than anything in the world.

5. FLOWERS HELP TO CONVEY VARIOUS MESSAGES

Fresh red roses

Each flower in its own uniqueness and color has a meaning to it. When picking flowers for any occasion be sure to match them with the occasion and message you are trying to convey. For instance, Red roses symbolize love while White signifies purity or new beginnings.

6. FLOWERS IMPROVE YOUR CREATIVITY AND PRODUCTIVITY

Fresh flowers for a desk at the office

Past studies have shown that having flowers around the office or study area improves focus, and reduces fatigue thereby increasing creativity and productivity.

7. FLOWERS HELP TO IMPROVE RELATIONSHIPS

The gifting of flowers helps to build stronger bonds in a relationship. Recent research on the power of flowers at Rutgers University revealed that flowers encouraged companionship and greater levels of social interactions.

You can order your fresh flowers by sending us a message or call +2348051194769

These are the 7 reasons why I love fresh flowers, what are yours?

LISA FOLAWIYO

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Lisa Folawiyo is an extensive global womenswear and accessories brand. Formerly called Jewel by Lisa and now named after its founder was established in Nigeria in 2005.

Lisa Folawiyo- Creative Director

Lisa Folawiyo is specifically known for creating beautiful and colorful luxurious pieces with a blend of textures, Ankara-inspired prints, bold tailoring, ornate details, and modern silhouettes that are visually appealing and very flattering on any body type.  

Floating feather Embellished dress- Lisa Folawiyo
Embellished Zip Panelled Ankara Dress- Lisa Folawiyo

Folawiyo’s garments are handmade and hand embellished by craftspeople who are well-experienced thereby staying true to the integrity of the brand and taking an average of 240 hours to complete. The Folawiyo brand has been showcased globally in major cities including Lagos, Johannesburg, London, Paris, Milan, and New York.

Embellished-Ankara-cutout-dress-with-zip-detail- Lisa Folawiyo
Embellished Ankara cutout dress with zip detail (Back view)- Lisa Folawiyo
Embellished Akwete Shirt & shorts- Lisa Folawiyo
Kaleidoscope Mixed Print T-Shirt & Crown Print Trousers

She has also been featured in a variety of publications such as Vogue, The New York Times, Elle, and Harper’s Bazaar, Glamour South Africa, Billboard.  Folawiyo’s pieces which is also celebrity favorite have been seen on some celebrities including Tiwa Savage, Lupita Nyong’o, Solange, and Thandie Newton.

Lisa Folawiyo has also won various prizes including Africa Fashion Award in 2012, One of eight emerging talents by WWD– Women’s Wear Daily in 2014 and in 2015 featured in the BOF 500.

Lisa Folawiyo Cube earrings & beaded bag
Lisa Folawiyo cube earrings
Lisa Folwayio beaded bag
Lisa Folwayio beaded bag

Lisa Folawiyo has been stocked at Industrieafrica, shopmcmullen, and Moda Operandi

www.lisafolawiyo.com

4 BEST ACCOUNTING SOFTWARE FOR STARTUPS

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As a startup, most times you wear so many hats in your business. While satisfying your customers, you need a good accounting system in place. Businesses are created to make profits, and one way to achieve this is to have a proper accounting system to help achieve the financial goal of your business.

WHAT IS ACCOUNTING?

Accounting is the process of recording, classifying, and summarizing financial transactions to provide information that is useful in making business decisions. It involves the systematic recording, reporting, and analysis of financial transactions such as sales, purchases, income, and expenses. It helps organizations understand how they are performing financially and make informed decisions about how to allocate their resources.

ACCOUNTING SOFTWARE

Accounting software is a tool that automates the process of recording and analyzing financial transactions. It helps businesses keep track of their financial information, including income, expenses, and profits.

WHY YOU NEED AN ACCOUNTING SOFTWARE AS A STARTUP

  1. Accuracy: Accounting software helps to ensure the accuracy of financial information by automating calculations and eliminating manual errors.
  2. Time-saving: Using accounting software can save a significant amount of time compared to manually recording and analyzing financial information.
  3. Increased efficiency: Accounting software allows businesses to process transactions more quickly and efficiently, which can help to increase productivity and profitability.
  4. Enhanced security: Accounting software often includes security measures to protect financial information from unauthorized access or tampering.
  5. Improved decision-making: Accounting software provides detailed financial reports that can help businesses make informed decisions about their operations and strategy.
  6. Cost-effective: In the long run, using accounting software can be more cost-effective than hiring a team of accountants to manually record and analyze financial information.
  7. Scalability: As businesses grow, their financial needs can become more complex. Accounting software can scale with a business, providing the necessary features and functionality as the business grows.
  8. Integration: Many accounting software programs can integrate with other business tools, such as customer relationship management (CRM) systems and inventory management systems, providing a more comprehensive view of a business’s operations.
  9. Mobile access: Many accounting software programs offer mobile apps or web-based access, which allows businesses to access financial information and process transactions from anywhere with an internet connection.
  10. Compliance: Accounting software can help businesses stay compliant with financial reporting requirements, such as tax laws and industry regulations.

ADVANTAGES OF ACCOUNTING SOFTWARE

  1. Improved accuracy: By automating the process of recording and tracking financial transactions, accounting software reduces the likelihood of errors and omissions.
  2. Increased efficiency: Accounting software can handle tasks much faster than a person can, which means you can complete your work more quickly and move on to other tasks.
  3. Better organization: With all of your financial data stored in one place, it’s easier to track and organize your finances
  4. Enhanced security: Many accounting software programs offer advanced security features to protect your financial data from unauthorized access.
  5. Cost savings: While there is an initial cost to purchase and set up accounting software, it can save you money in the long run by reducing the need for manual data entry and other administrative tasks.

DISADVANTAGES OF ACCOUNTING SOFTWARE:

  1. Upfront cost: As mentioned above, there is an initial cost to purchase and set up accounting software.
  2. Learning curve: It can take some time to learn how to use the software and become proficient in it.
  3. Dependence on technology: If you rely on the accounting software to track and manage your finances, you may be at risk if the software experiences technical issues or if you don’t have access to a computer.
  4. Limited customization: While many accounting software programs offer a range of features and options, they may not allow for as much customization as you would have with manual accounting methods.
  5. Data entry errors: While accounting software can reduce the risk of errors, it’s still possible for errors to occur if you enter incorrect data.

To know which software to use, you have to decide which works best for you. Some free Accounting Softwares are open source that gives the user access to make modifications to the system at all levels, most time with additional cost. Also, most Accounting Software are cloud-based,  which can be accessed from anywhere.

ACCOUNTING SOFTWARE

ZOHO BOOKS

Zoho Books is an online accounting software that helps businesses manage their financial transactions, invoices, expenses, and more. It is part of the Zoho suite of business applications and is designed to be easy to use and integrate with other Zoho applications as well as third-party tools. Some of the features of Zoho Books include:

  • Invoice and estimate creation and management
  • Expense tracking
  • Bank and credit card account integration
  • Project and task management
  • Time tracking
  • Purchasing and vendor management
  • Tax management
  • Customizable reports
  • Mobile app for iOS and Android Here’s a short video of an overview of Zoho books to know if it’s the right fit for your company. www.zohob.com

WAVE

Wave is a popular cloud-based accounting software that is designed to help small businesses manage their financial transactions and keep track of their finances. Wave offers a range of financial reports that you can use to track your business’s performance, including profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements. You can also use Wave to collaborate with your team and share financial information with your accountant.

Overall, Wave is a comprehensive and user-friendly accounting software that is suitable for small businesses of all types.

Wave is a cloud-based accounting software that offers a range of features to help small business owners manage their financial transactions and operations. Some of the key features of Wave include:

  1. Invoicing: Wave allows you to create and send professional invoices to your customers, and track payments and outstanding balances.
  2. Receipt scanning: With Wave’s receipt scanning feature, you can snap a photo of your receipts and the software will automatically extract the relevant information and categorize it for you.
  3. Expense tracking: Wave provides tools for tracking your business expenses, including the ability to categorize expenses and attach receipts.
  4. Financial reporting: Wave offers a range of financial reports, including profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements, to help you better understand the financial health of your business.
  5. Integration with other apps: Wave integrates with a variety of other apps and tools, including banks, payment processors, and project management software, to help you streamline your workflow.
  6. Collaboration: Wave allows you to invite team members and advisors to view and collaborate on your financial data.
  7. Security: Wave uses bank-level security measures to protect your financial information and keep it safe from unauthorized access. Here’s a short video of an overview of Wave to know if it’s the right fit for your company. www.waveapps.com
GNUCASH

GNUCash is an open-source accounting software that is suitable for small business owners and individuals. It offers a range of features for managing financial transactions, including:

  1. Double-entry accounting: GNUCash uses a double-entry accounting system, which means that every financial transaction is recorded in two separate accounts in order to ensure the accuracy and integrity of the financial records.
  2. Invoicing: GNUCash allows you to create and send invoices to your customers, and track payments and outstanding balances.
  3. Financial reporting: GNUCash provides a range of financial reports, including profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements, to help you understand the financial health of your business.
  4. Budgeting: GNUCash provides tools for creating and managing budgets, including the ability to track expenses and income against budgeted amounts.
  5. Integration with other software: GNUCash can be integrated with a variety of other software applications, such as online banking and investment tracking tools.
  6. Customization: GNUCash is highly customizable, allowing you to tailor the software to meet the specific needs of your business.
  7. Multi-currency support: GNUCash supports multiple currencies, making it a good choice for businesses that operate in multiple countries. Here’s a short video of an overview of Wave to know if it’s the right fit for your company. www.gnucash.org
AKAUNTING

Akaunting is a free, open-source accounting software that provides a range of financial management tools for small businesses, freelancers, and non-profit organizations. It offers features such as invoicing, expenses, payment tracking, and bank account management. Akaunting is designed to be simple and easy to use, with a user-friendly interface and no need for installation or setup. It is available online and can be accessed from any device with an internet connection.

  • Bank account management: Connect your bank accounts to Akaunting and get a real-time view of your financial activity. You can see all your transactions in one place, including deposits, withdrawals, and transfers.
  • Project management: If you manage projects for your clients, Akaunting has a built-in project management tool that allows you to track your progress and bill your clients accordingly.
  • Reporting: Akaunting has a range of reports that allow you to see your financial performance at a glance. You can see your income, expenses, profit and loss, and balance sheet, as well as customize your own reports.
  • Multi-language and multi-currency support: Akaunting is available in multiple languages and allows you to work with different currencies.
  • Integration with other tools: Akaunting integrates with a range of other tools and services, such as PayPal, Stripe, and Google Drive, to make it easy to manage your financial data. Here’s a short video of an overview of Wave to know if it’s the right fit for your company. www.akaunting.com

All Accounting Software are good, you need to know streamline the financial needs of you business and pick one that satisfies your needs.

Heineken Lagos Fashion Week 2022 | GREEN ACCESS

The Heineken Lagos fashion week started with its first runway show as an off-site event by Eki Kere at Alara Lagos.
The runway show continued at the Federal Palace Hotel, Ikoyi with Kadiju, Desiree Iyama, and FIA to other designers such as Gozel Green, Emmy Kasbit, Elie Kuame, Ejiro Amos Tafari, Ajobi, Ugo Monye, Odio Mimonet who closed the on-site show by telling everyone whom the Odio Mimonet woman is in soft loose and form-fitting accentuating silhouettes, shimmery pieces, and signature fabric.
The Green Access initiative and Bestseller foundation finalist- SVL designs, Oshobor, House of Kachi, Sahrzard design, Olisa Kenya, Meta Kay, Pettre Taylor, Heru Shizi, Lulla Studio and Aorah gave a beautiful show with their various collections in bright hues, repurposed jeans, headstock fabrics, and asymmetrical cuts in various silhouettes. Lush hair also gave a great presentation with their hair extensions on various hairstyles.
Other off-site shows were Iamisigo, Dye Lab, Sisiano, Lagos Space Programme, Andrea Iyamah, Imad Eduso, and Banke Kuku. As we approached fashion week, I was looking forward to someone interpreting us as a people in our togetherness which Banke Kuku did with new prints in various colors and new silhouettes. Banke Kuku’s show started with the Banke Kuku and Gabrielle Union’s collaboration and continued with the spring summer 2023 collection which pays homage to Nigerian Culture Unity; Diversity in Harmony. “Banke Kuku’s hand-drawn prints for SS23 are thoughtfully designed to record moments in history and depict the stories of Africa through stunning garments and accessories. By weaving a symbolic thread between local artisanal tailoring and organic craftsmanship, this collection further typifies the designer’s commitment to collaboration. In parallel to Banke Kuku’s drive towards a unified Nigeria, the designer explores the intersectional relationship between the multitude of tribes and cultures within the country.
The designs in the collection envision a world where “Unity” is a verb, and the concept of “diversity in harmony’’ is brought to life. The feather print which is inspired by the Eagle feather is an ode to Igbo culture. This motif is intertwined with the Bead print which represents the intricately complex beaded craft in the northern, Hausa region of Nigeria. Both prints are layered with the Yoruba flower which is a floral motif found on the throne of traditional Yoruba Kings from the Southern regions.
All the elements are drawn together by the hibiscus flower print; a beautiful flower common to all tribes that is rich in healing properties and is a symbol of healing across Nigeria. Akin to the designer’s vision, the creative process and materiality are paramount and each piece within the collection has been designed with meticulous detailing. Traditional tribal silhouettes are seen throughout the collection, whilst classic staples such as the pyjama sets make an updated reemergence for SS23’’.
As a first-time attendee at the Heineken Lagos Fashion week, it was totally worth it. The organizers are doing a great job of fostering the fashion business on the continent. It was well organized and communication was seamless. All the models did well in bringing each piece to life. The designers did a fantastic job with their collections as I wanted almost everything I saw. Networking was very good as everyone was willing to meet new people and exchange ideas. Heineken Lagos Fashion week is definitely a worthy fashion destination in Africa.

AORAH

HERU SHIZI

HOUSE OF AKACHI

LULLA STUDIO

OLISA KENYA

META KAY

PETTRE TAYLOR

SHARZARD

SVL DESIGN

OSHOBOR

Heineken Lagos Fashion Week 2022 | UGO MONYE

The Heineken Lagos fashion week started with its first runway show as an off-site event by Eki Kere at Alara Lagos.
The runway show continued at the Federal Palace Hotel, Ikoyi with Kadiju, Desiree Iyama, and FIA to other designers such as Gozel Green, Emmy Kasbit, Elie Kuame, Ejiro Amos Tafari, Ajobi, Ugo Monye, Odio Mimonet who closed the on-site show by telling everyone whom the Odio Mimonet woman is in soft loose and form-fitting accentuating silhouettes, shimmery pieces, and signature fabric.

The Green Access initiative and Bestseller foundation finalist- SVL designs, Oshobor, House of Kachi, Sahrzard design, Olisa Kenya, Meta Kay, Pettre Taylor, Heru Shizi, Lulla Studio and Aorah gave a beautiful show with their various collections in bright hues, repurposed jeans, headstock fabrics, and asymmetrical cuts in various silhouettes. Lush hair also gave a great presentation with their hair extensions on various hairstyles.

Other off-site shows were Iamisigo, Dye Lab, Sisiano, Lagos Space Programme, Andrea Iyamah, Imad Eduso, and Banke Kuku. As we approached fashion week, I was looking forward to someone interpreting us as a people in our togetherness which Banke Kuku did with new prints in various colors and new silhouettes. Banke Kuku’s show started with the Banke Kuku and Gabrielle Union’s collaboration and continued with the spring summer 2023 collection which pays homage to Nigerian Culture Unity; Diversity in Harmony.

“Banke Kuku’s hand-drawn prints for SS23 are thoughtfully designed to record moments in history and depict the stories of Africa through stunning garments and accessories. By weaving a symbolic thread between local artisanal tailoring and organic craftsmanship, this collection further typifies the designer’s commitment to collaboration. In parallel to Banke Kuku’s drive towards a unified Nigeria, the designer explores the intersectional relationship between the multitude of tribes and cultures within the country.

The designs in the collection envision a world where “Unity” is a verb, and the concept of “diversity in harmony’’ is brought to life. The feather print which is inspired by the Eagle feather is an ode to Igbo culture. This motif is intertwined with the Bead print which represents the intricately complex beaded craft in the northern, Hausa region of Nigeria. Both prints are layered with the Yoruba flower which is a floral motif found on the throne of traditional Yoruba Kings from the Southern regions.

All the elements are drawn together by the hibiscus flower print; a beautiful flower common to all tribes that is rich in healing properties and is a symbol of healing across Nigeria. Akin to the designer’s vision, the creative process and materiality are paramount and each piece within the collection has been designed with meticulous detailing.

Traditional tribal silhouettes are seen throughout the collection, whilst classic staples such as the pyjama sets make an updated reemergence for SS23’’.
As a first-time attendee at the Heineken Lagos Fashion week, it was totally worth it. The organizers are doing a great job of fostering the fashion business on the continent. It was well organized and communication was seamless. All the models did well in bringing each piece to life.

The designers did a fantastic job with their collections as I wanted almost everything I saw. Networking was very good as everyone was willing to meet new people and exchange ideas. Heineken Lagos Fashion week is definitely a worthy fashion destination in Africa.

Ugo Monye
Ugo Monye
Ugo Monye
Ugo Monye
Ugo Monye
Ugo Monye
Ugo Monye
Ugo Monye
Ugo Monye
Ugo Monye
Ugo Monye
Ugo Monye
Ugo Monye
Ugo Monye
Ugo Monye
Ugo Monye
Ugo Monye
Ugo Monye
Ugo Monye
Ugo Monye
Ugo Monye
Ugo Monye
Ugo Monye

Heineken Lagos Fashion Week 2022 | PEPPER ROW

The Heineken Lagos fashion week started with its first runway show as an off-site event by Eki Kere at Alara Lagos.
The runway show continued at the Federal Palace Hotel, Ikoyi with Kadiju, Desiree Iyama, and FIA to other designers such as Gozel Green, Emmy Kasbit, Elie Kuame, Ejiro Amos Tafari, Ajobi, Ugo Monye, Odio Mimonet who closed the on-site show by telling everyone whom the Odio Mimonet woman is in soft loose and form-fitting accentuating silhouettes, shimmery pieces, and signature fabric.
The Green Access initiative and Bestseller foundation finalist- SVL designs, Oshobor, House of Kachi, Sahrzard design, Olisa Kenya, Meta Kay, Pettre Taylor, Heru Shizi, Lulla Studio and Aorah gave a beautiful show with their various collections in bright hues, repurposed jeans, headstock fabrics, and asymmetrical cuts in various silhouettes. Lush hair also gave a great presentation with their hair extensions on various hairstyles.
Other off-site shows were Iamisigo, Dye Lab, Sisiano, Lagos Space Programme, Andrea Iyamah, Imad Eduso, and Banke Kuku. As we approached fashion week, I was looking forward to someone interpreting us as a people in our togetherness which Banke Kuku did with new prints in various colors and new silhouettes. Banke Kuku’s show started with the Banke Kuku and Gabrielle Union’s collaboration and continued with the spring summer 2023 collection which pays homage to Nigerian Culture Unity; Diversity in Harmony. “Banke Kuku’s hand-drawn prints for SS23 are thoughtfully designed to record moments in history and depict the stories of Africa through stunning garments and accessories. By weaving a symbolic thread between local artisanal tailoring and organic craftsmanship, this collection further typifies the designer’s commitment to collaboration. In parallel to Banke Kuku’s drive towards a unified Nigeria, the designer explores the intersectional relationship between the multitude of tribes and cultures within the country.
The designs in the collection envision a world where “Unity” is a verb, and the concept of “diversity in harmony’’ is brought to life. The feather print which is inspired by the Eagle feather is an ode to Igbo culture. This motif is intertwined with the Bead print which represents the intricately complex beaded craft in the northern, Hausa region of Nigeria. Both prints are layered with the Yoruba flower which is a floral motif found on the throne of traditional Yoruba Kings from the Southern regions.
All the elements are drawn together by the hibiscus flower print; a beautiful flower common to all tribes that is rich in healing properties and is a symbol of healing across Nigeria. Akin to the designer’s vision, the creative process and materiality are paramount and each piece within the collection has been designed with meticulous detailing. Traditional tribal silhouettes are seen throughout the collection, whilst classic staples such as the pyjama sets make an updated reemergence for SS23’’.
As a first-time attendee at the Heineken Lagos Fashion week, it was totally worth it. The organizers are doing a great job of fostering the fashion business on the continent. It was well organized and communication was seamless. All the models did well in bringing each piece to life. The designers did a fantastic job with their collections as I wanted almost everything I saw. Networking was very good as everyone was willing to meet new people and exchange ideas. Heineken Lagos Fashion week is definitely a worthy fashion destination in Africa.

Heineken Lagos Fashion Week 2022 | ORIRE

The Heineken Lagos fashion week started with its first runway show as an off-site event by Eki Kere at Alara Lagos.
The runway show continued at the Federal Palace Hotel, Ikoyi with Kadiju, Desiree Iyama, and FIA to other designers such as Gozel Green, Emmy Kasbit, Elie Kuame, Ejiro Amos Tafari, Ajobi, Ugo Monye, Odio Mimonet who closed the on-site show by telling everyone whom the Odio Mimonet woman is in soft loose and form-fitting accentuating silhouettes, shimmery pieces, and signature fabric.
The Green Access initiative and Bestseller foundation finalist- SVL designs, Oshobor, House of Kachi, Sahrzard design, Olisa Kenya, Meta Kay, Pettre Taylor, Heru Shizi, Lulla Studio and Aorah gave a beautiful show with their various collections in bright hues, repurposed jeans, headstock fabrics, and asymmetrical cuts in various silhouettes. Lush hair also gave a great presentation with their hair extensions on various hairstyles.
Other off-site shows were Iamisigo, Dye Lab, Sisiano, Lagos Space Programme, Andrea Iyamah, Imad Eduso, and Banke Kuku. As we approached fashion week, I was looking forward to someone interpreting us as a people in our togetherness which Banke Kuku did with new prints in various colors and new silhouettes. Banke Kuku’s show started with the Banke Kuku and Gabrielle Union’s collaboration and continued with the spring summer 2023 collection which pays homage to Nigerian Culture Unity; Diversity in Harmony. “Banke Kuku’s hand-drawn prints for SS23 are thoughtfully designed to record moments in history and depict the stories of Africa through stunning garments and accessories. By weaving a symbolic thread between local artisanal tailoring and organic craftsmanship, this collection further typifies the designer’s commitment to collaboration. In parallel to Banke Kuku’s drive towards a unified Nigeria, the designer explores the intersectional relationship between the multitude of tribes and cultures within the country.
The designs in the collection envision a world where “Unity” is a verb, and the concept of “diversity in harmony’’ is brought to life. The feather print which is inspired by the Eagle feather is an ode to Igbo culture. This motif is intertwined with the Bead print which represents the intricately complex beaded craft in the northern, Hausa region of Nigeria. Both prints are layered with the Yoruba flower which is a floral motif found on the throne of traditional Yoruba Kings from the Southern regions.
All the elements are drawn together by the hibiscus flower print; a beautiful flower common to all tribes that is rich in healing properties and is a symbol of healing across Nigeria. Akin to the designer’s vision, the creative process and materiality are paramount and each piece within the collection has been designed with meticulous detailing. Traditional tribal silhouettes are seen throughout the collection, whilst classic staples such as the pyjama sets make an updated reemergence for SS23’’.
As a first-time attendee at the Heineken Lagos Fashion week, it was totally worth it. The organizers are doing a great job of fostering the fashion business on the continent. It was well organized and communication was seamless. All the models did well in bringing each piece to life. The designers did a fantastic job with their collections as I wanted almost everything I saw. Networking was very good as everyone was willing to meet new people and exchange ideas. Heineken Lagos Fashion week is definitely a worthy fashion destination in Africa.