Page 35 - Powerlist 2019 - Digital Edition

NEW Duro Olowu It featured the now signature “Duro” dress, hailed by both Arts, Fashion & Design
2019 British and American Vogue as the Dress of the Year in
Fashion designer
2005. That same year, he won the New Designer of the Year
Award at the British Fashion Awards, the only designer to
Born in Lagos to a Nigerian father and Jamaican mother, have ever done so without a catwalk show.
Duro Olowu spent his childhood travelling between Duro was also awarded TopShop’s ‘NEWGEN’
Nigeria and Europe. From an early age, his enthusiasm for sponsorship for his first three catwalk shows as part of
fashion was inspired by the unexpected mix of fabrics, London fashion week beginning in 2007. In 2010, he was
textures and draping techniques of the clothing worn by named Best International Designer at the African Fashion
the women that surrounded him. Awards in South Africa as well as being one of six finalists
Like his father before him, Duro studied law in England for the Swiss Textiles Award in Zurich.
before returning to Nigeria where he practised for a few Alluring silhouettes, sharp tailoring, original prints
years. On his return to London, he pursued his true juxtaposed with luxurious vintage fabrics in ‘off-beat’ yet
vocation, a career in fashion, starting his eponymous label harmonious combinations are Duro’s signature. Duro has
at the end of 2004. enjoyed support from former American First Lady Michelle
His first collection was an instant hit with fashion Obama, who wears his designs. Mrs Obama also asked
editors and buyers worldwide and an international sellout. Duro to decorate the White House for Christmas 2015.

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