“The Designer
Funmilayo Déri is a Nigerian born, London/Budapest based fashion designer. She developed a passion for fashion from a very early age and was always surrounded by creativity, designing and making garments with her mother as a hobby. Her grandmother was also a designer.From earning a degree in International Business and working as a manager at a private bank in Switzerland, she decided in 2009 to make a career of her love for fashion. She went on to study at the renowned Istituto Marangoni in London, after which she chose to combine her passions for fashion and business. In March 2011 she launched her eponymous fashion label Funlayo Déri. Her collections have since been presented at Africa Fashion Week New York and Vauxhall Fashion Scout during London Fashion Week. The collections received positive recognition.
Funmilayo’s design aesthetic is influenced by her mixed cultural experiences and exposure and is a manifestation of her eclectic background. She believes that clothes should be glamorous and elegant but not overly serious, and so her designs exude glamour and elegance, but are yet modern and stylish in an unconventional, striking way. She also believes that clothes should always be created with exquisite fabrics, fine craftsmanship and great attention to detail. These elements are reflected in her collections.
The Label
Funlayo Déri pieces are luxurious and wearable. They celebrate the female form, emphasising a woman’s curves while utilising luxurious fabrics and the finest cuts and detailing.The Funlayo Déri woman is confident, sophisticated, captivating, with refined taste, a woman with a strong, individual sense of style who is not afraid to stand out from the crowd. She is passionate, cultured, loves life, new experiences and uses fashion to express her personality.
The label is for savvy fashionistas who value quality and craftsmanship, and are seeking timeless investment pieces that will see them through several occasions and seasons.”
Photocredit: Kola Oshalusi
Founded in 2007, Ladybrille® Magazine is a California based pioneer digital publication demystifying the image of Africans in the west through contemporary African fashion and celebrating the brilliant woman in business and leadership, with an emphasis on the African woman in the diaspora. Our coverage includes stories on capital, access to markets, expertise, hiring and retention, sales, marketing, and promotions.