“Denike was born out of the love for the dying art that is traditional fabrics,” says Denike Adegboye, the Lagos based designer who staged her first runway show at Lagos Fashion Week 2018 under the Fashion Focus category – a highly coveted spot for rising designers on the global platform that LFW is. The Spring/Summer 2019 collection in question is one full of layered fabrics, silk and lace combos and precision tailoring that compliments vast exploration of the designer’s heritage.

It may have been Denike’s first time at fashion week, but her journey started way back. Taking her first sewing classes 15 years ago, perfecting her craft while drawing inspiration from the simplest things.

I can literally get inspired by anything as long as it exists. My Autumn/Winter18 collection was inspired by a sandstone formation.

For this week’s Millennial Designer Spotlight BellaNaija Style‘s Mary Edoro talks with Denike Adegboye about her brand and personal style.

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Tell us about Denike
Denike was born out of the love of the dying art that is traditional fabrics. We are finding youthful ways to wear indigenous prints all the while promoting artisans and local skilled workers.

Why and When did you start designing
I started designing roughly 15 years ago as my mum did not believe in idleness, so she had me registered in a tailor’s shop to learn how to sew during my JSS3 Post-Junior Waec exams. It was one of those many things I did during holidays but I particularly had a soft spot for it, and that’s how our love story began.

What is your favourite part of being a fashion designer?
The end result. Stepping back from my work and seeing that I have created magic

What things inspire you while creating your designs
My favorite thing about being a designer is that I can literally get inspired by anything as long as it exists. My A/W18 collection was inspired by a sandstone formation. I’m looking forward to being inspired by experiences and emotions.

How long does it take to complete one of your pieces
It depends. I can finish something in a day and sometimes take weeks and months to finally decide on a design.

Which of your designs has made you most proud
The ombre dress from AW18. It is still my favorite till date.

Most memorable fashion moment
Showing a collection at Lagos Fashion Week, 2018

Personal style
I like to believe I’m a mix of everything. I love androgynous chic looks with some feminine accents. I live for amazing shoes.

Top style icons
Rihanna, Tamu Mcpherson, Freddie Harrel, Lisa Folawiyo

Lifestyle philosophy/quote
Don’t forget to live.

Read more inspiring interviews with other young African designers on the Millennial Designer Spotlight.