Styling the screen – Yolanda

STYLISTS have become stars in fashion, they are simply tagged ‘The Interpreters of Fashion’. There is more to being a fashion stylist than just having a good eye for composing and styling a shot. It’s important to have a good grasp of industry trends, along with the ability to predict them – sometimes several seasons in advance.

Award-winning celebrity fashion stylist and costume designer, Yolanda Okereke comes across as one of the more authentic fashion voices in both the movie industry and the fashion scene.

Young’s unique approach to celebrity styling — one that puts the wearer’s needs first — has no doubt contributed to her rise to the top of the fashion echelon.

Okereke has over the years carved a huge mark for herself in the fashion and movie industry – either styling celeb for a cinema-worthy movie or a red carpet glam, personal photo shoot, tv shows , as well as editorial pages.

Background

I am the second child of four children. I hail from the eastern part of Nigeria, Anambra. I am a graduate of Chemical Engineering from the University of Igbinedion University, Okada, Edo State.

Growing up

Growing up was pretty exciting, I would say I had everything I ever wanted because I have the most Amazing parents. I have always being adventurous and creative as far back as I can remember, I never let any opportunity pass by, I grew up in Benin and then Lagos, spent most of my adolescence after school in London; finding myself, and I think I have.

Journey into the fashion industry

I started out as a Designer, that sector is not an easy one, somehow I experimented Styling and somehow it stuck and its being a nice ride since then. Its not an easy one though, but somehow, because of the burning passion, I pulled through.

Becoming a fashion stylist

From the first time I put my first look together, I knew that was the beginning, that time was several years ago.

Driven Passion

I think it is from the satisfaction on the clients face and the smile of appreciation. It fuels the drive.

Multi-tasker

I was the Fashion Editor of Bloke Magazine, a Fashion Editor for The NET (Nigerian Entertainment Today), a Wardrobe curator for Nollywood movies, a Columnist/ Writer, a Photo Story Blogger, a Model and a fashion engineer. I’m a Mutlitasker (I’m a Super Woman)

Life as a fashion stylist

Life as a fashion stylist is exciting and fun because I get to work wit different people everyday and every time. It has its advantages and disadvantages though. Sometimes, I can’t meet up wit appointments because I’m caught up with so much or traffic or stuck in another country It gets hectic, but loving what I do, helps me get around it.

Interesting experiences

When I work with a new person, taking up a new project and when I get to travel. I have pretty much enjoyed all my Nollywood movie experiences and moments.

Challenges

I expect them, nothing good comes easy. With Maturity and Wisdom, I deal with them as best as I can. You win some, you lose some.

Inspiration

My environment inspires me. And also music, music is like food to my soul, it’s like my manual. And my best friend does a great job, he inspires me and helps me set new challenges.

Defining fashion

Fashion is a culture that revolves; it’s a way of life. It is not style, it’s ; more of a trend.

Style of dressing

Simplicity. Simplicity is Sophistication.

Favourite piece of clothing

A black dress (a Little black dress), you can do no wrong.

Favourite designer

International: DVF (her cuts work for me every time); locally, VLR (Viv La Resistance) (She’s Good), Lady Stylista understands every curve of my body (She’s Amazing)

Favourite accessory designer

I don’t have a favourite, I work with whatever and whoever catches my eye

Clientele

It is a long list; Chioma Chukwuka Akpota, Monalisa Chinda, Desmond Elliot, Munachi Abii, Nse Ikpe-Etim, Omoni Oboli, Francisca Owumi, Uche Jombo, Rita Dominic, Kate Henshaw, DJ Jimmy Jatt, Stella Damasus, Kalu Ikeagwu, Kel,Shaffy Bello, Neo Akpofure to mention a few.

Fashion muse

HmmmMmmM!! Thinking!! SJP Sarah Jessica Parker, Sophia Loren, Rita Dominic

Favourite signature scent

Paco Robanne One Million. It makes me feel like a Million Dollars each time I wear it.

Favourite beauty product

Clean and Clear. It’s gentle and works for me.

Favourite make up product

MAC, I have searched, it seems to be the only thing working for me.

Beauty routine

Remove make up before going to bed and bath twice daily.

Keeping Fit

Absolutely nothing, walking already is enough exercise.

Will not be Caught dead wearing

Tights and a short top (cropped tops).

Style of dressing

My signature work look – jeans and tee-shirt or shorts and tees/tanks. I am embracing my feminine side, so short dresses and skirts give me the freedom I need, that my playful looks. I love structured dresses, above the knee. My style basically varies with my mood and the occasion

Relaxing

Chatting with friends, sleeping and watching TV. I love spending time with loved ones.