He is the wunderkind of the menswear fashion scene, an exceptionally gifted Nigerian-UK-based designer with outstanding achievements. Having emerged as one of UK’s most recognised and successful fashion designers, Wale Adeyemi spoke at Oxford University on fashion, became a proud Princes Trust Ambassador, designer and stylist to international A-List stars like Alicia keys, Usher, Black Eyepeas, Estelle, Jay Sean and not to mention recipient of an MBE in 2008 for his services to fashion. Sitting with Wale felt like one of those rare opportunities I
would occasionally pray happen to me and what priviledge I had. Although he looked a bit exhausted, perhaps after a
thoroughly decadent week filled to the brim with flights and logistics for his trip to Nigeria, he still had his charming gentlemanly attributes intact. We exchanged pleasantries as we settled in comfortable breakfast chairs adjacent within his resident hotel, he smiles wearily when I ask him about his long week and plan towards his visit to Nigeria. “It’s been very interesting; there have been lots of things to consider. It’s been okay, I guess. It was just all about
work, nothing very exciting. I seem to be really swamped with work at every moment.” Wondering if he had any misconception about the idea of a
fashion show in Nigeria, he shares his believe in Nigeria saying; “I think I knew it was going to be fine, everybody around me often informed me about the improvements in
Nigeria. I’ve been told that the new Nigeria is beautiful and so I found it, the hotel I’m staying is amazing, the food is
fantastic and it’s all good. I’m very relaxed.” Part of me wants to learn more, all about Wale and the brand in one bit – the start, the now, the achievements
and next step, - for instance, how he got on the 100greatbritons list amongst other accomplishments and in one wrap it was all unveiled.
The Walé Adeyemi collection began in 1998 as a menswear line, ‘somewhere between the kerb and the boutique’ merging aesthetic and functional attributes to the garments. He was presented with the Fashion and Design Award at the Carlton Multi-Cultural Awards in 2001. Brands like Caterpillar, Nokia, Martell, Slazenger, Sky and New Era have all been clients of Walé. His expertise to produce valid collaborations to capture the imagination of his audiences has gained him credibility from top organizations who seek a route into the young British style markets; they have tapped Walé for his ingenuity and design flair to lift up their brands. Walé Adeyemi’s influence and achievements in fashion and beyond, coupled with his acclaimed design and celebrated collections have positioned him as one of the principal style leaders of our time, and made him a positive role model for all. Especially at the last Arise Fashion Week in Lagos, Nigeria where his runway of exquisite collection received massive turns of applause and report.
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