Local , International fashion entrepreneurs exchange creativity at GTCO Fashion Weekend

Story By Godwin Onyemaechi

Thousands of fashion enthusiasts, designers, and industry experts from across Africa and beyond were attracted to the 2024 and 7th edition of the GTCO Fashion Weekend.

” This year’s event became bigger and better,
kicked off with a lot of activities as anticipated, compared to the previous editions.Local and International fashion entrepreneurs turned up to exchange ideas in the global fashion world.

“The event aimed at educating Nigeria Fashion Entrepreneurs on current fashion trends with an impressive lineup of local and international designers, masterclasses, and exhibition booths.

‘Attendees were welcomed into a custom-curated site for the season’s fashion event at the vast GTCO center at Victoria Island in Lagos, where fashion, beauty, and lifestyle stores greeted them with an array of in-season goods on display.

“At the presentation stage inside the expansive hall had new collections from Nigerian designers Ninie, Lohije and Jewel Jamila presented a curated showcase. This was a major fashion highlight for day one.

The masterclass kicked off with ,British Fashionista and founder of Fashion East, Lulu and Co and once upon a time Editor at Large at Conde Nast. Dubbed the “fairy godmother of British Fashion Lulu Kennedy.

Although one saw Lulu Kennedy and Patricia Bright at a packed masterclass where the facilitators dished on gems for participants especially in the creative industry.

Lulu narrated her journey into the fashion space,staring that she ventured into fashion accidentally. She had a flair for music and films,she was keen about music with no fashion background or training after she moved from Italy to London.

‘The Fashion East founder who is credited to have launched the careers of Simon Rocha, Kim Jones and JW Anderson talked about supporting talented creatives and how to grow as a fashion designer, spoke on : “Incubating Talent, Supporting the next Generation”.

She said for one to build a lasting fashion brand, you need to give it your best. She mentions putting in place things as simple as “curating your social media, the look and feel of your brand is important, real-life interactions and networking.”
You can equally starts small and grow your brand. I don’t like comparison but I push my designers at the forefront.I give them my knowledge. Different people and personality traits. It takes a lot, I am worried about long design supporting countries and giving back to the society.

She mention that the future of fashion globally “it’s about the youth. The newness excites me also the new way of doing things. I love to see more people working together, support others and more manufacturers coming together with designers”.You don’t need to copy anyone it’s not in our culture. If you want to be a designer have someone that can influence you.

“As globalization continues to evolve, fashion will reflect a dynamic blending of cultural influences. The younger generation’s appreciation for diverse aesthetics will inspire hybrid styles that celebrate different heritages, leading to a richer, more multifaceted fashion landscape.

She added that the future of global fashion is bright and vibrant, driven by the ideals and demands of the youth. Their values will shape everything from sustainability to inclusivity, ensuring that the industry evolves to meet their expectations. As they express their individuality and prioritize meaningful connections with brands, the fashion landscape will not only adapt but transform in ways that reflect a more conscious, diverse, and innovative world

Also, she stated how talent and passion plays a huge role in succeeding; “if you have a talent and the drive you will succeed, make friends along the way, treat people well, not horribly competing or copying”. The renowned fashion expert noted that from the get go “I didn’t want to be a designer, I am the person behind the talent. I like connecting people maybe because of my background in nightlife”.
It was a deeply insightful and engaging conversation.

The second facilitator of the event was Patricia Bright, a top fashion and lifestyle influencer, content creator and entrepreneur as well as author who started off as a YouTuber before she became popular over thirteen years ago.
Bright spoke on Style, Influence plus everything in Between creating your online world. She shed light on improving your online presence that needs consistence.
In her words: my parents wanted me to be a financial expert working in the Bank but I didn’t inform them that I wanted to do fashion marketing. I kept it from them, I hid the truth of what I was studying because I have Nigerian parents. You understand what it entails.

However, she said:
“Social media today is not the same thing it was fifteen years ago”. Starting off, there was no business plan as social media back then was largely just about video sharing. “There was no game plan to be famous”. With a background in accounting, Bright started off working in Investment Banking and Consulting and worked for seven years before taking a deep dive into producing content. In the first three months, she didn’t make any notable headway and she went back to work before she went back again to start again.

On reinventing, Bright notes that people get bored so you have to reinvent yourself, “switch up and be more strategic” for longevity she says. On influence she hopes she is a positive person and ” I show up as I chose to live”. “Find a community outside of friends and family”.

Talking about doors social media can open, she offers “you can end up in spaces you didn’t think you will be”. “Be loud-not verbally- but about your message and your story”. “You need to build depth and really know what you are creating, why you are creating and intentional about creating it”.The session was deeply insightful and engaging.

Day one closed with runway shows from Gert Johan Coetzee, Orire, Onalaja, Hue by Idera, Romeo Hunte and Sukeina presenting their latest collections.
Also,Sheika Daley spoke on : “A maestro in the world of celebrity Make up Artistry

Meanwhile, “Iconic Hair: The Hollywood Story” by Ted Gibson is a memoir and visual celebration of the art of hairstyling, and it showcases Gibson’s impressive career working with celebrities and transforming their looks. Ted Gibson, a renowned hairstylist, has had a significant impact on the beauty industry and Hollywood fashion, creating signature styles that have defined eras and set trends.

In this book, Gibson reflects on his journey through the world of hair and beauty, sharing personal anecdotes, insights into his creative process, and the stories behind some of the most memorable hairstyles he has crafted. With photographs and illustrations, readers can explore the evolution of hairstyles in Hollywood and the cultural significance behind them.

Gibson’s expertise extends beyond the chair; he provides valuable tips and techniques for readers looking to achieve iconic looks themselves. The book serves not only as a tribute to the power of hair in shaping personal identity and expression but also as a source of inspiration for aspiring hairstylists and beauty enthusiasts alike.

Overall, “Iconic Hair: The Hollywood Story” is a fascinating look at the intersection of style, celebrity, and artistry within the realm of hairstyling, celebrating the transformative power of hair.

The 2024 GTCO Fashion Weekend, ended with glitz and glamour,an unforgettable experience that celebrates African fashion, creativity, and innovation , with over 140 free exhibition booths showcasing local and international designs.The event highlighted the importance of promoting indigenous African fashion and enterprise. “ Fashion is a vital sector that can drive economic growth and create opportunities for entrepreneurs.

GTCO’s commitment to promoting African fashion and enterprise is evident in its partnership with top fashion brands and institutions. The company has consistently supported initiatives that promote creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship in the fashion industry.

The Laurels International Magazine