If Lota owns something then it is definitely fire!
Introducing the Nigerian Edit, where we delve into the vibrant world of Nigerian fashion through the eyes of individuals who not only wear these pieces but embody the spirit of Nigerian creativity.
In this edition, we sit down with Lotachukwu, whose style is an eloquent expression of her Nigerian heritage and unapologetic individuality. Lotachukwu, also known affectionately as Lota, Lotts, or Lottie.
As an Igbo woman, her cultural identity is the cornerstone of her self-expression, with fashion serving as a universal canvas for articulating her individuality.
What is your name and what are your pronouns? My name is Lotachukwu but people call me Lota or Lotts or Lottie but rarely ever Lotachukwu.
My pronouns are Her/Thatbitch.
...with reference to fashion specifically, I think that my view has been very much shaped by culture and by culture I mean in the general sense of being Nigerian because ‘Nigerian’ is an actual and distinct culture...
How do your personal experiences affect the way you view fashion?
This is a very tough question to answer because personal experiences affect everything that we do. Having said that, with reference to fashion specifically, I think that my view has been very much shaped by culture and by culture I mean in the general sense of being Nigerian because ‘Nigerian’ is an actual and distinct culture IYKYK. My 'Nigerianness' is at the core of how I express myself and fashion for me is one of the most universal forms of self expression. I don’t know if this has answered the question but that is the answer I have so it’s the answer you’ll get.
Tell us about an OG Nigerian brand you love and why you love them.
Okay! Okay! Okay. Another tough question to answer. Over the recent years I have made a conscious effort to collect Nigerian fashion as a matter of course because as we know fashion is an art form and there’s few things better to me, as an Igbo woman, than functional art. I say this to say that telling me to pick just ONE out of the many brands that I adore is cruel and unusual punishment. For the purpose of answering the question I’ll have to go with Marté Egele only because I recently used my BUI bag so that’s what comes to mind. I love the Marté Egele brand because they make genuinely stunning bags with great material and they have remained consistent in quality over the years so a babe can vouch for them.
What was the first Nigerian-made piece you bought - How did you hear of the brand? No way on earth or heaven or hell that I’ll be able to answer this. This old ass babe cannot remember.
Nigerians can make great-quality-world-standard items when they so please...
Can you tell us about three Nigerian-made items in your wardrobe and what they mean to you?
Apoola shoes by Ezigbo-Leda
Sculpta set by Reine Roi What do they mean to me? They mean that Nigerians can make great-quality-world-standard items when they so please and there is a pressing need to actively encourage the creators that are genuinely putting in the work.
Name a small, growing Nigerian brand you’re currently impressed with and why.
Shout out to Ora Lagos which is a brand that makes bags mostly. I am genuinely very impressed with the quality of bags that they have on offer, especially at the price point. Another thing I love is their customer service which is such a plus for me because in my online shopping experience in the Nigerian market(which is vast), the one thing I have noticed is that my people generally as they say ‘do lack manner of approach’.
If I own something then it’s definitely FIRE...
What’s your most coveted Nigerian-made piece at the moment?
I don’t covet things tbh. If I own something then it’s definitely FIRE so I have to say that I love all my pieces.
Lotachukwu's narrative sheds light on the dynamic interplay between personal identity and cultural heritage, where fashion becomes a conduit for self-expression and cultural pride. It's a reminder that fashion isn't merely about clothes—it's a language, a declaration, a celebration of who we are and where we come from.
However, this edit isn't solely about showcasing fashion; it's a window into the collaborative ethos propelling Nigeria's fashion scene forward. Dedicated to nurturing talent, fostering collaboration and propelling the growth of the Nigerian fashion economy is Clearly Invincible's goal with the Nigerian Edit.
Is there a Nigerian-made clothing item in your wardrobe that fills you with endorphins when you see it? Then you are ready to share your own fashion story and be featured in our next edition of the Nigerian Edit. We want to hear from you! Whether you're a fashion enthusiast, a designer, or someone with a unique perspective on Nigerian fashion, we invite you to fill out our form and share your experiences, favourite Nigerian-made pieces and insights with us.
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What I covet? Lota’s Nigerian-made bag collection 😂