Celebrating Africa

Last week the entertainment company that I work for (Dude Productions) organised an event to showcase and celebrate African culture and fashion. It was quite similar to what we put together for last year's Nigerian Independence Day but this time there was more talent and one designer on the spotlight, the super talented Jacqueline Boakye. 

Introducing J'QLYN

A graduate of the University of the Arts London, Jacqueline Boakye launched her own label J'QLYN in 2013. Prior to establishing her label, Jacqueline bagged herself an internship with leading British Bespoke designer Suzie Turner, and under the name 'JB Afrique' she also showcased her own label at African Fashion Week London 2011. Jacqueline's current line has gained much recognition and was featured in this year's London Fashion Week. With a mix of modernity and tradition, the designer's inspiration and drive stems from her diverse cultural exposure, which has been greatly influenced by strong African and European experiences. 

By the way, I absolutely love every single one of Jacqueline's pieces. I really cannot wait to work with her again!

For inquiries you can email Jacqueline at jqlyn@outlook.com or visit her Instagram page here @officialjqlyn to see more of her designs.

Dude Productions

The beauty, the brains and the fashion lover behind the show. Esther, Jay and myself put so much time and effort into organising the show, along with the help of many others. I can't tell you how much I enjoyed working alongside these two; it was stressful; it was exciting; and most of all it was so much fun. I'm looking forward to our next show. 

Backstage Madness

Dee Kalz was one of the makeup artists of the evening. Just look at her Makeup Set!!!

I actually styled these beautiful models that opened the show! I think that was the proudest I'd ever been of myself. Lol! It was only two days before the show that I learnt from some fantastic YouTube gurus how to tie the iro (wrap skirt) portion of the buba (blouse) and iro in the new tulip style. But I was so happy to have nailed it, and the girls looked awesome; they were all such a huge help and were so patient with me as I wrapped my leftover pieces of fabric around them. I felt like such a mama bear. Little Carmen wearing this gigantic head wrap was such a doll as I asked one of the other models to help me wrap six yards of fabric around her head. Bless her cotton socks! I'd always visualised tying such a huge head wrap and I was so elated that the results came out excellently.

Feelin' Myself a lil' bit :P

I bet you guys recognise my outfit!! I'm actually wearing a mix of my African printed outfits that I had made a while ago (previously worn here, here and their counterparts here). I just really enjoy experimenting with my traditional prints and I think so far this is the best mix I've achieved. 

I hope you've enjoyed reading this post as much as I have writing it, guys! To find out more about Dude Productions and what we do please visit the "Contact Me" page (link at the top of the screen) or contact Jay on 07508274485. Alternatively visit our Facebook Page here where you can also see more photos from the event.

PHOTOS BY TAYO

Thank you for reading and for your much appreciated support!

xoxo, K.O.

p.s. I'll be speaking more in-depth about what iro and buba is in an upcoming post.