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The Incredible Rise of Olivia Mmesoma”

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In the ever-evolving Nigerian entrepreneurship society, where persistency is as important as vision, Olivia Ihemeofor – known simply as Oli is directing her life, rewriting the rules her own way. Born on December 31, 2000, Oli’s story from her childhood to building her brand is a testament to strength, passion, and the firm belief that with determination, anything is possible.

Oli’s love for writing and putting words together led her to study Literature in English, a logical decision to nurture an innate passion. “I started writing before getting into college, from primary school,” she shares. This early love for words even translated into a clever side hustle. “I started making money writing essays for my classmates who didn’t do their holidays essays.” Books, she explains, became her sanctuary — “a safe space, an escape from harsh reality” — thanks to her mother, a teacher who encouraged this early love.

Interestingly, Oli initially had gone towards a different path. “At first, I tried to study banking and finance, leaving writing behind, but I dropped off because I wasn’t doing something that brought happiness to me,” she reveals with honesty that speaks volumes. She stressed the important lesson: chasing genuine happiness is key.

And happiness, for Oli, isn’t just found in writing. It’s also found in radiating positivity. “I’ve always been known to light up the room because I find happiness in the little thing no one expects,” she says, a statement that holds up when you meet her. She is also a model — started off modelling for beauty products, and now models her own brand.

Her biggest passion, however, lies in something even more broad: “travelling the world.” For Oli, exploring other cultures, their fashion, and what they stand for — “the world is a very big space.” Her desire to share these discoveries is solid, hinting at future desire to see the world non-stop.

Speaking of which, the genesis of her fashion brand, Via_ng, is as captivating as Oli herself. “I started Via_ng with just five cloths I bought to wear from certain online vendor. I thought, why not post this cute outfit, put my price and go get another one if someone buys because I was really broke that period….”

The entrepreneurial spirit, born out of necessity, shone brightly. “I sold them out in a day and went back to get some more. Within three months, I was able to officially launch it as a brand.”

For Oli, the business is more than just selling clothes. “We have been in business for 2 years now, and it brings me so much joy to see girls on my outfit. The good reviews bring me joy — knowing I bring so much confidence to so many girls out there. In Via_ng our clothes are luxurious and very affordable.” Her commitment to her customers and the confidence she helps them build is evident.

When asked about her inspiration, Oli doesn’t hold back: “Poverty,” she states simply. This raw honesty reveals a powerful drive to create a better life for herself and to empower others. Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is equally practical: “Before starting a brand, know your environment.” This keen understanding of her surroundings and market has undoubtedly contributed to Via_ng’s success.

Looking ahead, Oli has ambitious plans for 2025. “In 2025, I’ve been through so much for a girl of my age, so I feel like this is finally the year to call me that girl…. I’ve always longed for financial independence, so this year I’m taking my brand to the next level. Being an entrepreneur in Nigeria is hectic, but we don’t back down in Nigeria, so I’ve decided to bite more than I can chew and chew it at home.”

 

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Tyla Makes VMA History in Vintage Chanel and Pandora Jewels

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The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards belonged to Tyla. With “Push 2 Start,” she became the first artist to win Best Afrobeats two years in a row, a moment that showed her rise from breakout star to one of Afrobeats’ leading names worldwide. Her win placed Afrobeats firmly on the global stage, with African stars now shaping the direction of pop culture.

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Tyla’s win carried the pride of the continent, but her presence on the red carpet made just as much noise. Styled by Ron Hartleben, she arrived in a 1993 vintage Chanel corset top, worn as a cream-and-black micro-mini dress. The look was balanced with fitted black shorts, a modern twist that allowed the outfit to move between daring and clean. Around her waist, gold chain echoing the layered necklaces and heavy medallions at her neckline.

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Her partnership with Pandora was on full display as she stacked bracelets, rings, and anklets, turning jewelry into a language of detail and weight. On her feet, she chose black Louboutin pumps, a classic contrast to the rest of the look.

The beauty direction was just as deliberate: a side-parted bob, natural-toned glam and a bold green manicure  gave the look a sharp twist, showing that Tyla knows how to finish off her fashion moments.

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It was a red-carpet appearance that felt from the past yet modern, drawing from fashion history while signaling the assurance of an artist who knows she’s making history herself. The award was one part of the night. The other was seeing Tyla step onto the carpet and stage with the same assurance— an artist shaping Afrobeats.

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Temi Otedola’s Wedding Style- A Blend of Couture and Culture

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Temi Otedola’s marriage to Oluwatosin “Mr Eazi” Ajibade was more than a union of two public figures. It unfolded as a wedding in three acts, staged across Monaco, Dubai, and Iceland. Each stop offered its own story of couture, culture, and family. Reportedly costing around $14 million, the celebrations reflected both the couple’s global lifestyle and their Nigerian roots.

Photo: @temiotedola-Instagram

The journey began in Monaco on May 9 at Karl Lagerfeld’s famed Villa La Vigie. The date carried deep meaning: it was Mr Eazi’s late mother’s birthday. Temi chose a crisp custom Wiederhoeft suit, accessorised with Briony Raymond jewelry, while her groom wore Louis Vuitton. The evening ended with a private dinner at Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, intimate yet refined.

Photo: @bellanaijaweddings-Instagram

From there, the spotlight shifted to Dubai, where tradition became the focus. The Otedola family home hosted the Yoruba and Igbo rites, complete with music by King Sunny Adé and spirited dancing. Temi rotated through dramatic looks by Zac Posen, Miss Sohee, Lisa Folawiyo, and Oscar de la Renta. Mr Eazi matched her energy with designs from Lisa Folawiyo Studio, Tom Talmon Studio, Jagne, and Mazelle. It was a celebration that honoured heritage without losing a modern edge.

Photo: @temiotedola-Instagram

The final chapter unfolded in Iceland, where vows were exchanged at Hallgrímskirkja Church in Reykjavík. For the rehearsal dinner, Temi wore Valentino, and on the wedding day she appeared in a breathtaking Fendi Haute Couture gown, while Mr Eazi chose Saint Laurent. Their reception at Kleif Farm reflected the Icelandic landscape with touches of moss, stone, and mist. Guests were treated to a surprise performance by John Legend, before dancing into the night under the Northern Lights.

Photo: @bellanaijaweddings-Instagram

Luxury of this scale does not come cheap. The celebrations spanned couture wardrobes, traditional attire, international travel, elaborate décor, and live performances. Mr Eazi himself later admitted his music earnings alone could not have funded such a celebration. In his words: “You think sey music go fit pay for that wedding, my G?”

Civil Wedding (Monaco): Temi in Wiederhoeft suit with Briony Raymond jewelry; Mr Eazi in Louis Vuitton.

Traditional Wedding (Dubai): Temi in Zac Posen, Miss Sohee, Lisa Folawiyo, Oscar de la Renta; Mr Eazi in Lisa Folawiyo Studio, Tom Talmon Studio, Jagne, Mazelle.

White Wedding (Iceland): Temi in Valentino for the rehearsal dinner, and Fendi Haute Couture for the ceremony; Mr Eazi in Saint Laurent and Amiri.

Every look was chosen to make a statement, not only of wealth or status but of storytelling through fashion.

Photo: @temiotedola-Instagram

Temi Otedola’s wedding style was unique not just for its glamour but for the way it told a story through fashion. Each look blended Nigerian identity with high couture. From the aso-oke at her traditional rites to the Fendi gown in Iceland, she showed that you can celebrate your heritage, shine on a global stage, and still make it unmistakably your own.

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Italian Designer Giorgio Armani Dies at 91

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Italian fashion designer Giorgio Armani, one of the most influential figures in modern fashion, has died at the age of 91. The news was confirmed by his company on Thursday, stating he passed away “surrounded by his loved ones.”

In its official statement, the Armani Group said:

“With infinite sorrow, the Armani Group announces the passing of its creator, founder, and tireless driving force: Giorgio Armani.”

The announcement was first reported by France 24, which noted that Armani’s fashion house would set up a funeral chamber in Milan on Saturday and Sunday, followed by a private funeral at a later date.

Photo: Giorgio Armani -Instagram

Born in Piacenza in 1934, Armani started out in medicine before moving into window dressing and eventually fashion design. In 1975, he co-founded his namesake label, selling his Volkswagen Beetle to raise the funds. What began as a small venture grew into one of the most powerful fashion empires in the world, spanning couture, ready-to-wear, perfumes, hotels, and interior design.

He was known for pioneering unstructured tailoring, a style that stripped away stiffness and redefined power dressing in the 1980s. Armani’s designs became synonymous with understated luxury, worn by Hollywood stars, business leaders, and royalty alike. In Nigeria, his suits and evening gowns have been favorites on Nollywood red carpets and at major award shows, influencing how African celebrities approach luxury fashion.

By 2025, the Armani Group was generating an annual turnover of more than €2.3 billion ($2.7 billion), making it one of Italy’s most successful fashion houses. Armani’s health had been declining in recent months. In June, he missed Milan Men’s Fashion Week—marking the first time in his decades-long career that he was absent from a catwalk show.

Photo: giorgioarmaniofficial- Instagram

In Italy, Armani was affectionately known as Re Giorgio (King Giorgio). Unlike many designers who later stepped back from the spotlight, Armani remained at the heart of his company until the end. His eye for detail and insistence on perfection set him apart, shaping a brand that balanced creativity with strong business acumen.

The company confirmed that a funeral chamber will be open to the public in Milan over the weekend, allowing admirers and industry figures to pay their respects. A private family funeral will follow at a later date. Giorgio Armani leaves behind not just a global fashion empire, but also a legacy that reshaped how the world understands elegance, discipline, and Italian style.

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