Florence Otedola, better known as DJ Cuppy, is stepping into a new era, and she’s doing it on the cover of Marie Claire. Titled “Free, Finally,” the editorial captures the entrepreneur, philanthropist, and DJ embracing a chapter defined by authenticity, confidence, and self-discovery.

Top: SISÈ (@sise.label); Skirt: Mugo Mugo (@mugomugoofficial); Jewellery: Unrefyned (@unrefyned_)

The cover story is also a celebration of African creativity, with a fashion team spotlighting designers and creatives from across the continent. Cuppy wears pieces from Shop Bawsty, SISÈ, and Mugo Mugo, styled by Chinazam Ikechi-Uko and Swazzi, while jewellery from Unrefyned Studio, Dogonart, and Chinazam Ikechi-Uko completes the striking looks. Her ensembles are paired with shoes by Lhambi.

Top: SISÈ (@sise.label); Skirt: Mugo Mugo (@mugomugoofficial); Jewellery: Unrefyned (@unrefyned_)
Dress: Bawsty (@shopbawsty); Earrings: Chinazam Ikechi-Uko (@chinvzvm)
Top: Banke Kuku (@bankekuku); Skirt: Banke Kuku (@bankekuku); Jewellery: Dogon Art (@be.dogonart)

Behind the lens is photographer Danielle Mbonu, whose portraiture beautifully captures Cuppy’s poised yet liberated energy. The beauty direction is equally impeccable, with makeup by Animashaun Abdulazeez Temitope and hair by Noir Royale Premium Luxe, adding the perfect finishing touches to the editorial.

Top: Banke Kuku (@bankekuku); Skirt: Banke Kuku (@bankekuku); Jewellery: Dogon Art (@be.dogonart)

With a creative team championing African talent at every turn, DJ Cuppy’s Marie Claire cover is a fashion moment and about the power of telling your story on your own terms.

Dress: Bawsty (@shopbawsty); Earrings: Chinazam Ikechi-Uko (@chinvzvm)

CREDITS

Editor-in-Chief & Creative Director: Denise Eseimokumoh (@theloliaba)
Content Editor: Esther Akinbola (@_enioola_)
Features Editor: Patricia Ellah (@patriciaellah)
Fashion & Beauty Editor: Chinazam Ikechi-Uko (@chinvzvm)
Production: Public Ambition, Katy Sadé (@publicambition), (@katysade)
Production Assistant: Funmbi Toye (@funmbi.toye)
Photographer: Danielle Mbonu (@thelifeofdanmbo)
Wardrobe: Shop Bawsty (@shopbawsty), SISÈ (@sise.label), Mugo Mugo (@mugomugoofficial)
Jewellery: Unrefyned Studio (@unrefyned_), Dogonart (@be.dogonart), Chinazam Ikechi-Uko (@chinvzvm)
Shoes: Lhambi (@lhambi)
Makeup: Animashaun Abdulazeez Temitope (@thebeautebyheir_)
Hair: Noir Royale Premium Luxe (@noirroyale) (@nrluxehair)
Styling: Chinazam Ikechi-Uko (@chinvzvm), Swazzi (@officialswazzi)
Location: Amah Studios (@amahstudios)
Cover Design: Michael Olusoga (@_eniolamichael)
Words: Denise Eseimokumoh (@theloliaba)