I have just finished reading a delightful introduction to Lisa Folawiyo - design genious behind Jewel by Lisa. Her collection has been all over the blogosphere this season - see more photos at Haute Fashion Africa, That 1960 Chick, and Style House Files.
In
2005 Lisa Folawiyo and her team of expert craftsmen stormed onto the
Nigerian fashion scene with Jewel by Lisa. In less than four years Lisa
has perfected the art of wearing Ankara, turning it into a coveted
luxury label through the embellishment of the fabric with sequins,
swarovski crystals, beads and the like - all which are handmade in
workshops in Lagos, Nigeria. Jewel by Lisa uses the highest quality
Ankara from the Vlisco-Hollandis brand and is frequently mixed with
fabrics as wide ranging as taffeta, linen, cotton, chiffon, chantilly
lace, and silk. Each Jewel by Lisa garment is handcrafted, individual
and unique. With each
embellishment hand sewn carefully onto the fabric, a JBL garment on
average will take about 120 hours to make. The ease with which the
garments could be worn and the intricate workmanship visible in each
piece sparked a new revolution in Ankara couture.
Jewel
by Lisa has grown with a strong clientele, and the beginning of an
international interest. JBL’s goal is to cater to the Nigerian market,
creating desirable, one-of-a kind luxury pieces while establishing
itself as an international label.
In
2008, Jewel by Lisa featured in the This Day Africa Rising Festival in
London, and was one of only 3 designers chosen for the catwalk show at
the M-net Face of Africa modelling competition. In June 2009, the label
will participate in the inaugural African Fashion Week in Johannesburg
as well as a host of other renowned fashion events around the continent.
Jewel
by Lisa has been featured in several publications such as Arise
Magazine, True Love Magazine, ThisDay Style, Genevieve, and Elan. Lisa
Folwaiyo was also featured and interviewed on the Moments with Mo talk
show in 2008.
Bio and retail at My Asho
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