Lagos premiere concept store, Temple Muse, played host to top fashion cognoscenti from editors to stylists, and bloggers for their Temple Muse Presents: Bello Edu brunch as an off-site Lagos Fashion Week 2018 show.
The affair was intimate and exclusive with an expertly curated array of hors d’eouvre and champagne passed around as conversations were ongoing. The brunch heralds the launch of leading Ghanaian womenswear brand, Bello Edu in Nigeria, and their retail presence in Temple Muse, Lagos.
We caught up with designer Alima Bello and she shared more about the brand and its latest offerings with us.
Tell us about your brand
Bello Edu is a contemporary womenswear brand founded in Accra, Ghana. The brand is built on 5 principles which guide our design process and how we continue to serve our woman.
Why and When did you start designing?
I started designing from a selfish perspective as far back as 2008 when I felt I couldn’t find clothes that spoke to my design aesthetic.
What is your favourite part of being a fashion designer?
Being able to connect with our amazing clients through clothes.
Your designs are amazing, who and what things inspire you while creating your designs?
I take inspiration from my day – to – day experiences. It could be a conversation with an employee or seeing a lady outside my window.
How long does it take to complete one of your pieces?
It could range from a day to several days. Depends on the design and if I feel we have achieved our design goal.
Do you consider trends first when designing?
I always consider what would make our woman timeless and still relevant today.
Which of your designs has made you most proud?
That is a difficult one. I think I am most proud of taking my time to know the B|E woman and what she delights in.
Describe your personal style?
Classic and comfortable
Most memorable fashion moment?
Creating my first classic Bello Edu shirt. More so, because I found a way to express myself through clothes. It was everything I had envisioned in my mind in physical form.
Your go-to style uniform
Black on black everything or a classic oversized white shirt with black denim pants or a black pleated skirt.
How do you feel about launching in Lagos?
Being part Nigerian I felt it was a natural course of action and I have loved the feedback and connection since. The Lagos woman is confident, happy and an achiever – all qualities that resonate with our brand and our woman.
What’s been the biggest thing you have learned since Lagos Fashion Week?
Not really a learning but generally very excited about African fashion. The spectrum is endless and there is so much talent. Can’t wait to get back to Accra and create create create. I want to put a dent on the African creative space, especially for retail.
Your favourite places in Lagos?
So many places but I must say I got obsessed with Z Kitchen during this visit.
Click on the gallery below to see more photos from the Bello Edu event at Temple Muse
