Ten:10 edition 5: Nouveau Riche 8485

 When your debut collection is featured on vogue.it you know your doing something right!

Nouveau Riche 8485 blasted on to the fashion scene in October of 2010 and have been making waves ever since... their retro twist on the use of traditional Nigerian fabrics (Ankara) is one of the things that cought my attention. In addition its the power of their pieces that I love most...each piece is a statment on its own the kind of dress that you can wear with your hair tied back with light mackup and still be one of the best dress girl at any event.

I could go on and on about the intricate details of this collection, but I think you'd prefer to hear what the designers have to say. I got a chance to interview the two brains behind Nouveau Richie 8485. (but it wasn't easy) the pair are currently busy working on their new collection and trust yours truly will be their to update you the moment it comes out!

Enjoy!!!

1) Who is Nouveau Riche 8485?

Designers: Tolani Aremu & Kolapo Alex-Oni

Nouveau Riche 8485 was created with the desire to produce quality garments with a youthful and edgy flair. In doing so, we incorporate traditional fabrics from our native Nigeria with a contemporary and innovative twist

2) How did you start your company?

Kolapo: The brand was actually Tolani's brain child. We had worked together on clothing lines in the past, and she convinced me that we could use the skills and lessons we'd learned to create a brand of our own-one which showcases designs we would actually wear.

Tolani: Shortly after working on previous clothing lines I figured Kolapo and I had amassed enough experience to start on our own line. In addition to that I was at a funny crossroad in my life and needed to be involved in something new. I had a strong background in business and fashion and Kolapo was and is the most creative and fashion savvy person I know and I believed that together we had a lot of offer the fashion world. The rest is history

3) How long have you guys been selling online for?

About 6 months

(my favourite!!)

4) Who is your ideal customer?

Kolapo: An individual who has fun with her style; one who plays by her own rules but doesn't try too hard-she just gets "it."

Tolani: she definitely has to be someone who isn’t afraid to be who she is and as kolapo said, she has to be someone who has fun with fashion.

5) Who is your creative designer? 

The both of us bring ideas to the table. We are a creative duo

6) How/where do you manufacture your clothes?

n/a

7) What inspires your designs?

Our desire to produce key quality pieces that ring true to our aesthetics and our motivation is creating pieces that we ourselves like and would wear. 

8) I am aware that there are 2 of you that make up Nouveau Riche 8485 so what roles do you each play from the creation to the selling aspect of the clothes?

Everything is a collaborative effort. All aspects of the brand are a shared responsibility. Thus, before any decision is made we make sure we both mutually agree. 

9) As up and coming Nigerian Designers what are your biggest challenges?

Making sure we consistently exceed the expectations of our consumers

10) What advise can you give to people that wish to pursue a career like yours?

It definitely takes a lot of patience especially if you truly believe in your craft or passion but when your hard work comes to fruition; it makes it all worth it

For more information or to shop check out these sites:
Website: www.nouveauriche8485.com
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/nr8485Ten:10 edition 5: Nouveau Riche 8485