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Why Ghanaian-American Jeffrey Ampratwum is the menswear expert to watch in fashion!

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At the start of the Victoria era, early 19th century – the English began to tone down the royal style dressing of the French army, namely those adorned in prestigious regalia and heavy embroidery. It was a sign of English nationalism and sparked a new wave of appearance in men. A few decades later, the suit was born and heavily influenced those in Italy and America. The British and the Americans have a rich revolutionary history, of course, and coincidentally the British colonized the African country – Gold Coast – until 1957 when they declared their independence and changed their name to Ghana. 

 

As part of an independent Ghana, a host of individuals began to exercise new freedoms and venture out of the country into new territories. Many Ghanaians set their eyes on American travel and a wave of trail blazers left the country and settled in the infamous New York City. For most, it was an opportunity to plant new seeds in the hopes that their children would be afforded even more opportunities for a prosperous life.

 

One of these children of the diaspora is Bronx-born Jeffrey Ampratwum. The only child to Kate Bampoe and Eugene Asante-Ampratwum Mpere, who met in the Bronx after immigrating from Ghana. The dynamics of having African parents and being raised in a heavily eclectic environment gave rise to Jeffreys style and prose. More importantly, we can honestly say that there are only a handful of Ghanaian-Americans living in the states that can exhibit a special presentation that reflects both their African heritage married with the esthetic of their nationality. We recently caught up with Jeffrey to discuss how his early influences provided him with a framework to now become such a strong force in the menswear industry in fashion.

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Jeffrey. 

AD: Jeffrey, Ɛte sɛn?

 

Jeff: Haha, Eye.

 

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AD: I had to test your Twi really quick! You know most Ghanaians who are born in the states dont have a clue about the language unless its spoken fiercely in the home.

 

Jeff: You are 100% correct with that. Ha. But for me, I was lucky in that my mother took me to Ghana before I even knew how to use words. So, in actuality, Twi was the first language and vocabulary I learned, and in essence, English is my second language. So, Im really decent when it comes to using Twi. Im a cheat code! But keep that quiet. Ha.

  

AD: How much of the remnants of the Ghanaian culture factored into your approach to your style and presentation?

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Jeff: When I was younger and in school, particularly in the Bronx – it wasnt always your proudest moment to be from Africa or to say your family was African. Part of the silly embarrassment was perhaps from the narratives that were spinning on television. Americans were being indoctrinated with visuals of feed the children” which only highlighted the extreme poverty in a few Africans countries. The images and broadcasts were all the same, for decades. So called philanthropist and humanitarians took camera crews into ravaged areas and televised starving children for us to see here in the states. I believe that had a profound effect on young boys and girls born from African parents.

Jeffrey

However, as for me – I always looked at being dark skinned and being deeply rooted into my African culture as a super power. I liked the idea of being different, even though all the kids in all my classes were also children of immigrants. They just couldnt grasp the concept of it at that time. So, from there, it was showtime. My Uncle, Joseph Ken Mintah – was the pioneer as the first in the family to travel to the states – he had extreme style. My mother also is very detailed with her sense of jewelry and fragrances. I adsorbed it all. 

 

AD: Did you start dressing in traditional African attire? What do you mean exactly?

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Jeff: Not exactly! But, being an only child really allowed for me to sit deep in thought for long periods of time. Being left-handed allowed for me to be extremely dexterous and detailed. And being raised solely by my mother further allowed me to pay attention to the importance of clothing and accessories – as she dressed herself each morning. It was the ultimate cocktail and I was already drunk with creativity. I started customizing all the clothes I had. By no means were we wealthy, so I had to manage just a few outfits for school.

 

My styling began when I would turn 5 outfits into 15 – so essentially, a 5-day school week became New York Fashion Week for me. I would airbrush my sneakers, turn Old Navy sweaters inside out for a fleece appeal, and cuff my jeans in 4 different ways depending on my footwear. This soon became a bad habit and made me late for school many mornings.

 

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AD: You see, if you are late to school in Ghana back then – you might as well have sat by the road to hide from both your mother and headmaster! What was college like for you then?

 

Jeff: Right! Ha. It grew legs during my undergrad. Now all the pretty girls were around, I had more freedom to come and go, and more importantly – I had a stage to showcase my style. I joined a student club in the SEEK Program, and soon became the President and started hosting a string of events based around fashion. 4 years and a bachelors degree later, there were 6 fashion shows and 3 beauty pageants under my belt. Huge successes. I started to doubt my real educational reason for attending college, which was to become a dentist. Fashion was dancing on one shoulder and dentistry on the other. But somehow, I figured out how to still involve the two. My best buddy, Kenny – whom I met at the college on the road to become dentists – made it through. So, I live vicariously through him. And now, coincidentally – together we’ve developed a brand – a service of bespoke mens luxury shoes and women’s handbags, and ready to wear womenswear shoes as well. Named, Kenjeffreys. It is serendipitous because all of the products are sourced and handcrafted in Haiti and infused with Ghanaian culture. As Kenny is from Haiti, we properly employ artisans within the community and focus heavily on our social impact.

Following undergrad, I then began at FIT as student, really just trying to test my styling hand – and to learn more about the industry. While there, I came across extremely talented and knowledgeable fashion professionals that have really guided me. Namely, Sadia Seymour and Joseph DeAcetis. Both wildly experienced, patient and embedded with a wealth of information. Respectfully in womenswear and menswear. You cannot beat that, and I am grateful for it.

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AD: That is strangely unique and admirable. Talk to us about how all those experiences and inspirations give rise to the Jeffrey or Che we see today and ultimately, where that places you in your field of fashion and menswear.

 

Jeff: Sure. Great point. I have been indoctrinated by the basic principles of creativity as an adolescent – with respect to clothing. That is extremely hard to shake. Innately, styling was my ultimate form of communication, seeing that I was a shy introvert. So now, I still revert back to those same feelings…. the feeling of home, warmth, memories, great food and innocent fun. My approach now is exactly the same in the sense that when I am dressing, styling or designing for someone – I am taking into account their entire repertoire and holding a mirror in front of them which reflects the items that they love most. It is a skill that perhaps only empaths are only able to exhibit.

 

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Having the ability to read into thoughts and connecting with the motivating spirits that drives people – is a gift. I ran the New York City marathon three times, and the 2nd time I ran it in a tuxedo! It was my ultimate homage and pledging of allegiance to fashion. Ha.

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I also believe my extensive traveling experience has aided to the arsenal. Recent trips to Ghana always resets a creative instinct with me, as I look around and arrive back to a place of self-awareness. It feels right. My cousin Harry knows where to be to capture the real essence of the land. And, coincidentally enough, I am often back and forth to the UK as well. Savile row in London, England -as you know – is a menswear connoisseurs Disney Land. It is the traditional hub for the world’s best tailored-bespoke suits. Naples and Florence are a close second. However, sartorially, the British have etched their names in the fine-art making of the suit. I do though spend most of my time in Brighton, UK. Its where my love is and also like a second home for me. The culture there is infused with various styles and the community is inviting. The Duchess of Brighton-Hove, Lady Donna and her amazing friends will assure that you have a great time! 

 

AB: Finally, talk to us about your styling approach with respect to specific talent that you work with.

 

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Jeff: Definitely. This is perhaps an area you cannot teach. It is learned with years of experience and even reading the room wrong most times. I tell my fashion students often that they have to continue shooting airballs at the basket. Get out the miss shots, now – and properly learn your subjects. For example, if I am styling a celebrity for the red carpet – several nuances are to be considered before arriving at a dress or a tuxedo. Such as, what stages in life is your talent currently in, how body conscious are they and what are they most nostalgic about. These (and some of my other secrets that I cannot give away) are the pillars to nailing great style, image and presentation.

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If I am shooting for a magazine in a studio – its party time. If you are not dancing as a model or grooving as a photographer, you are are in the wrong business, per say! Haha. With me, you are very liable to hear everyone from Bob Marley, James Brown, MJ, and Jay-Z to Queen, Lady Gaga, Biggie, Nas and Beyonce all on the same playlist. I say that to say: I enjoy what I do in fashion, and I will always represent the joys of that. I believe that is what makes me an enigma in this industry. Always professional however, but make it subjective and inject areas of your creativity wherever you can. Particularly in menswear – I keep a very intimate and close pulse on traditional, casual and street styles of these sub genres – and study them gravely like the science they are. That all still comes from sitting deep in thought as I did
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CXC: South Africa’s Top Slow Fashion Designers Present Salon-Style Shows at the Nellie

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6. Mount Nelson CXC Sindiso Khumalo by Candice Bodington and Mikayla McClean

This November, Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel, hosted Confections x Collections (CxC): an annual five-day celebration where intimate salon-style fashion shows, curated by Twyg, meet bespoke confectioneries inspired by slow fashion labels with a focus on community, care, and inclusion.

10. Mount Nelson CXC Chuulap by Candice Bodington and Mikayla McClean

The collections on show were inspired by the theme of African Luxury Lore, a concept steeped in storytelling that explores the richness of African cultures and customs while offering more meaningful engagement with luxury fashion. The designer collections that graced the Nellie’s Lounge included VIVIERS Studio by Lezanne Viviers, an avant-garde, androgynous brand, and 2020 LVMH Prize winner Sindiso Khumalo, both returning to CxC for the second year. They were joined by Johannesburg-based designers Wanda Lephoto, who showcases sartorial storytelling, and Mantsho by Palesa Mokubung, famous for her bountiful and bold looks. The closing act was Cape Town-based designer of Thai descent, 0, fondly known as the “Prince of Print”.

11. Mount Nelson CXC Chuulap by Candice Bodington and Mikayla McClean

With CxC, Cape Town’s iconic pink hotel pays homage to the rise of those who are championing a culture of care and honouring local artisanal skills through the legacy of the 50-year afternoon tea tradition. For the two daily fashion shows, Mount Nelson’s Executive Pastry Chef Vicky Gurovich created bespoke confectionaries inspired by the collections. Each show incorporated an intimate designer conversation led by Master of Ceremonies, Seth Shezi, with the common thread of collaboration and community emerging when designers modestly spoke about their respective creative success both at home and abroad.

12. Mount Nelson CXC Chuulap by Candice Bodington and Mikayla McClean

Wanda Lephoto revisits African stories through the lens of contemporary style in his ‘Me Fie’ collection, weaving subcultures and influences through tailored garments. An observer inspired by South Africa and beyond, Lephoto says, “I’m in service to my friends and family with an understanding of where we’ve been and where we want to go. It is all through friendship and community”. He retells the story of watching the migration of people to Johannesburg’s city centre, those who carried large Ghana Must Go bags with crosshatched patterns, which he translates into ready-to-wear, contemporary designs. Cherry blossom appliqué suits welcome his notion that “from the cracks in the pavement, a flower can bloom”.

7. Mount Nelson CXC Sindiso Khumalo by Candice Bodington and Mikayla McClean

VIVIERS Studio by Lezanne Viviers explores the provenance of our clothing and shared origin stories of diverse cultures inspired by the stars. Through reclaimed silk with Japanese printing techniques, Viviers gives a new textural feeling to silk harvested in South Africa. Like her contemporaries, Viviers celebrates community and shared values: “There is one designer with the idea, but it takes 50 people working together to make the vision clear”.

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CxC transcends the runway as Sindiso Khumalo returns to indulge guests in the rare opportunity to experience her latest collaboration with European retailer ‘& Other Stories’. Her playful dresses and newly launched children and swimwear were laced with ribbons, storied prints, and Peter Pan-style collars. She notes, “There is an amazing fashion community in South Africa. This is bigger than showing your work, it’s about community building”. This collection extends Khumalo’s commitment to a plastic-free ethos, which features clay jewellery by celebrated South African sculptor, Githan Coopoo.

4. Mount Nelson CXC Viviers Studio by Candice Bodington and Mikayla McClean

Mantsho by Palesa Mokubung is the embodiment of building a legacy through community. Since founding Mantsho in 2004, Mokubung says “I have proven myself as an integral part of the fashion industry – a black female at the forefront. My community is what pushes me”. Each collection is laced with passion and culture, through a signature spectrum of bold prints and exaggerated silhouettes, collectively creating a mosaic of artistry and African prints. A true titan of the industry, Mokubung has once again made her mark, with the storied Mount Nelson as her stage.

Chuulap by Chu Suwannapha takes you around the world with his Spring/Summer 2024 ‘Sea Explorer’ – a collection of skilfully clashing colours, patterns, and maps swathed across trench coats, knitwear, and aquatic accessories. A salute to African creativity, Suwannapha points to ocean exploration and Cape Town’s wild terroir for inspiration. When speaking about the power of collaboration Suwannapha noted, “I am putting myself into somebody else’s shoes to extend my brand and I deeply value the opportunity to collaborate with someone who can change my experience”.

From historic threads to cosmopolitan tapestry, through Confections x Collections, the much-loved Nellie – a matter of months shy of turning 125 years old – continues to make its mark as one of Cape Town’s cultural cornerstones.

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Sulit Set to Host Get It Right Crash Course, Aims at Empowering African Fashion, Beauty & Lifestyle Brands

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Over the years, African fashion, beauty and lifestyle brands have gained significant recognition both locally and internationally. Despite this, several businesses continue to grapple with developing solid brands that have staying power in the market, resulting in their inability to scale.

Recognizing the need to bridge this gap, Sulit, a collaborative consulting service that aims to awaken the potential of African fashion, beauty and lifestyle businesses to evolve into resilient brands, is organising the Get It Right Crash Course on Saturday, 11th November, 2023 in Accra at RiStyled Events, Dzorwulu.

The crash course is designed to empower African creative businesses to fill the gap that exists between where they currently are and their dream of becoming unique brands with loyal client base. Targeted at fashion, beauty, lifestyle, wellness, artisanal and handicrafts businesses, the crash course will equip participants with the tools to create unique brand strategies.

Speaking ahead of the crash course, Elorm Sika Amankwa and Worlaenam Sika, Co-Founders of Sulit Consult and organisers of Get It Right Crash Course underscored the need for the crash course.

“In our line of work, many businesses tend to approach us for strategies to help them scale or gain publicity. What they don’t realise is that without a good foundation (brand strategy), the expansion plan won’t work. It’s the same way in which a building without a strong foundation will collapse. Backed by our keen interest and commitment to help drive growth within the sector, we designed this crash course to help them Get It Right.”

“Through this crash course, our goal is to empower brands using a more interactive process to develop a clear vision and the actionable steps to achieve it, as well as to help them identify how they can stand out in a sea of similar businesses, resulting in return customers and more income.”

Attendees will benefit from insights and lessons tailored specifically to their industries, and within the African context. “We aren’t here to teach them lessons that they cannot relate to, or give them brand building strategies tailored to a foreign market. We are bringing everything directly home to them.”

The key topics to be covered in this half-day crash course include:
– Developing a strong vision (the ultimate goal which will give you strategic direction),
– Working out your mission (the actionable steps you will take to achieve your vision),
– Crafting your values (the pillars which help form your firm foundation) and
– Identifying your USP (the qualities that make you unique and memorable to your customer)
Participants will also receive industry-specific workbooks as well as 30-day access to a WhatsApp group to offer post-workshop support. In addition, the workshop will provide valuable networking opportunities for attendees to foster collaboration.

For more details on how to sign up for the course, please visit:

Email: sulit.advisory@gmail.com
Instagram: @sulit_edu
LinkedIn: Sulit Consult

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Renowned Fashion Designer David Tlale Celebrates 20 Years in the Industry with a Spectacular Fashion Show

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Celebrated fashion designer David Tlale is set to mark a significant milestone in his illustrious career as he celebrates 20 years in the fashion industry. In commemoration of this remarkable achievement, Tlale is preparing to unveil an extraordinary 80- piece collection at a highly anticipated fashion show.
The upcoming collection holds a deep personal meaning for Tlale, paying tribute to his late mother who would have turned 80 this past September. This profound inspiration serves as the driving force behind the exquisite designs that will be showcased at the event.
The David Tlale invite-only show will take place in the vibrant Melrose Arch Precinct on 08 November, just before the highly anticipated AFI Joburg Fashion Week kicks off on 09 November. Fashion enthusiasts and industry insiders alike can expect an unforgettable spectacle as Tlale showcases his latest creations, demonstrating why he has become a force to be reckoned with within the fashion world.
Reflecting his commitment to nurturing emerging talent and giving back to the industry, Tlale’s show will commence with a special segment featuring a 30-piece collection by six exceptional interns. Each intern will have the opportunity to showcase their unique vision through a captivating five-piece collection. This initiative not only highlights Tlale’s dedication to cultivating the next generation of fashion leaders, but also emphasizes the importance of collaboration and mentorship within the industry.
The David Tlale 20th Anniversary celebrations will extend well beyond the fashion show, with a series of events and activities planned all through to November 2024. Tlale’s longevity in the industry is a testament to his exceptional talent, unwavering passion, and artistic vision.
Presented by the House of David Tlale, the show is made possible through the generous support of our valued sponsors. Their commitment to the fashion industry and dedication to nurturing creativity has been instrumental in bringing this momentous occasion to life.
The David Tlale show is supported by The Venue – Melrose Arch, African Fashion international, Black Motion Production, M.A.C Cosmetics, TASTIC, Mizani, with PR by OnPoint PR and produced by ELALT Events and Productions.
Please see attached for media use, 2 sketches from the upcoming David Tlale 20 Year Anniversary Collection.
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5star University College hosts the maiden edition of Fashion for Change on Nov. 11

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5star University College is set to organize its maiden edition of the Fashion for Change project on November 11, 2023, at Patty’s Event Centre at East Legon, Accra.

According to the President and Founder of 5Star University College, Wilson Richbill, the mission of the project is to promote sustainable and ethical fashion practices, foster eco-conscious consumer behavior, and encourage brands to adopt environmentally responsible manufacturing processes.

He further explained that, by raising awareness about the interconnectedness between fashion and climate change, the initiative aims to inspire collective action and empower individuals to make informed choices that contribute to a more sustainable future.

“In a world facing unprecedented environmental challenges, the fashion industry is increasingly recognizing its role in contributing to climate change. However, The Leaders of 5Star University College believe that, within this realization lies a powerful opportunity to drive positive change. The “Fashion for Change” project emerges as a beacon of hope in Ghana and Africa at large, aiming to revolutionize the industry by promoting sustainability and raising awareness about the dangers of climate change. With a core theme centered on the perils of environmental degradation, this transformative initiative strives to foster a new era of conscious consumerism and responsible production practices within the fashion world,” he added.

Themed “Fashion for Change: Combating the Dangers of Climate Change”, the event will bring together top key players from all sectors. The students of 5Star University College will, through their fantastic performances, highlight the dangers of climate change.

5STAR UNIVERSITY COLLEGE as a leading fashion, media, filmmaking, IT, and business school in Accra, Ghana, has started a project with the SRC of the University College to help solve environmental problems in our communities.

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Say Hello To Sprayground’s Little Friend – The Limited Edition Scarface Collaboration

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Sprayground, the world’s most popular travel fashion brand, reveals an iconic collaboration with the timeless cult classic, ‘Scarface.’ This limited-edition backpack merges the worlds of fashion and cinema, delivering a unique and legendary bag that will leave enthusiasts and movie aficionados alike yearning for paradise. 

The partnership with ‘Scarface,’ one of the most legendary and revered films in cinematic history, pays homage to the powerful and unforgettable world created by director Brian De Palma and brought to life by Al Pacino. The piece captures the raw, gritty essence of the film, as well as the bold, audacious spirit that defines Tony Montana. 

The limited edition backpack provides a twist to the classic film poster, depicting a strong image of the ruthless yet charismatic Tony Montana in a stark contrast of black and white that mirrors the dichotomy of his character. The background reflects the multifaceted personalities of the film with its mesh of checkered patterns, graphic and photographic art styles, and signature Sprayground shark mouth. The piece is accented with the emblematic Scarface and Sprayground logos. 

Sprayground first captured worldwide attention when the ‘Hello My Name Is’ backpack debuted over 10 years ago. Sprayground founder, David BenDavid (DBD), had high hopes to create a brand that he felt represented his childhood and upbringing. Exposed to streetwear, art and a variety of cultures from a young age, DBD took all this inspiration and turned it into creativity that is now admired worldwide. 

The Scarface backpack will be available online at www.sprayground.com and exclusive boutiques nationwide this winter. 



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Ghanaian fashion brand, Odefille, launches to offer stylish fashion for C-Suite women

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Odefille designs 5

Odefille, a new Ghanaian fashion brand, has officially launched on September 23, 2023, at the W.E.B. Dubois Center in Accra with the aim of providing stylish fashion options for C-suite women. 

The new brand   launched under the umbrella of the H&M Fashion Show (Heels and Muscles), which is a platform for beginning and advanced designers and which takes care of most things like catwalk, models, photographers, among others.Odefille designs 4

CEO and Founder for Odefille, Nadia Asantewaa Nkandobi, speaking on the inspiration and vision behind the brand said: “The C-suite woman needs to be dressed such that she can be present in the boardroom next to her CEO, or be CEO, or at cocktail receptions or restaurants, or pick or drop guests to and from airports or hotels. She needs to be stylish and attractive without giving the wrong impression.”

Odefille, launches to offer stylish fashion for C-Suite women

Odefille, launches to offer stylish fashion for C-Suite women

Acknowledging the challenges that many women in executive positions encounter when selecting appropriate attire for various occasions throughout their day, Ms. Nkandobi established Odefille to specifically cater to this gap.

Ms. Nkandobi, who has an extensive background in fashion, including modeling and working in the industry internationally, noticed the lack of exciting options in traditional C-suite wear. Drawing from her experience and expertise, she decided to create a modern clothing and accessories line specifically tailored to the needs of C-suite women

“I noticed that many of my contacts who are working in the C-suite environment are struggling to find the right thing to wear, suitable for all occasions throughout their day, sometimes with unexpected things happening like an unannounced dinner or travelling.

Odefille, launches to offer stylish fashion for C-Suite women

Odefille, launches to offer stylish fashion for C-Suite women

I have been involved in fashion since I was 6, my mum then had her own Batik line under the name ‘Faustina’s Fashion’ and I’ve worked in the Woodin and M.A.C. stores. I have also worked and travelled internationally with top executives, and through all that I have developed a good eye for what goes and what does not in that environment.

I have also modelled for more than 10 years. I graduated from Exopa Modelling Agency and I regularly modeled for Bob Pixel, and I am still modelling for designers who are launching new collections, both in the studio and on the catwalk. I featured in Paris Match Magazine. Therefore, I am not a novice. At the same time, I noticed that the present traditional C- suite wear is rather boring and needs a lift. Personally, I would feel neglected if I was to wear that sort of thing, I can look better than that,” she said.

Odefille, launches to offer stylish fashion for C-Suite women

Odefille, launches to offer stylish fashion for C-Suite women

The Odefille brand

The Odefille brand focuses on top-quality materials and craftsmanship to ensure each garment meets Nkandobi’s exacting standards. In addition to her own designs, the Odefille brand collaborates with top designers from Senegal and Mali, as well as sourcing unique and captivating pieces that align with the brand’s vision.

“In addition to my own designs, I collaborate with some top designers from Senegal and Mali, and I constantly scout for unique and captivating pieces that align with my brand’s vision. I am not planning for everything I offer to be purely my own, there is nothing wrong with outsourcing,” she said. 

Ms Nkandobi is dedicated to empowering C-suite women to feel confident, empowered, and effortlessly fashionable in every aspect of their lives. I invite everybody to join me on this exciting journey as I redefine executive fashion with my top-quality standards.

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