One word that best describes Cleopatra Adedeji aka Naira’s style? Funky! Naira which stands for Nigerian American I represent Africa since her debut on the music scene has always had a way of staying stylish yet accessible to the average African-American/African girl in the West. We caught up with the very busy always “hustling” artist to talk style!
LADYBRILLENigeria.com: How would you describe your style sense?
NAIRA: Six Letters… Spunky! At times, I am quite moody and of course it spills over into my music as well as my attire. I do on the other hand, dwell in the arena of sexy meets elegant.
LADYBRILLENigeria.com: What do you think your style says about your personality?
NAIRA: It definitely shows how fun, inventive, and/or spontaneous I can be. Tomorrow, I may have an entirely different look the next day just for the heck of it.
LADYBRILLENigeria.com: What’s your favorite music video to date that you feel truly showed your style sense?
NAIRA: Uwwwwwww a tough tough question! I’d be a tie between Lauryn Hill’s “Doo Wop” (That Thing) and Keri Hilson’s “Knock You Down” video. I dug the colors and the looks from the “Worldwide the Remix” video as well. Fun and spunkyness!
LADYBRILLENigeria.com: I love the way you put your outfits together. It is always fresh, young and avant garde. Where do you get that from?
NAIRA: My mom was a designer and boutique owner for most of my life and because of that, I was inspired by her sense of style and color selection. I’d watch her and the way people responded to her method and admired it. Because of her, I’m into mixing different colors, fabrics, lengths, and more. There’s always something about what I’m wearing that is odd (big or small)
LADYBRILLENigeria.com: If you were not a musician or you still are and decide to branch into the world of design, what would you be designing?
NAIRA: More than likely clothes and accessories (bags, ties, belts, sunglasses etc)
LADYBRILLENigeria.com: Who is your favorite Nigerian designer and why?
NAIRA: Bukky Are of House of Versatile Styles. Her designs are innovatively sexy, while others are fun, urban, or edgy. She’s dope! Definitely a versatile design for a very versatile artist.
LADYBRILLENigeria.com: Tell us your favorite stylish store in the USA to shop?
NAIRA: I frequent boutiques mostly I’m not a big fan of huge stores chock full of clothes. My favs would definitely be Controversy Boutique, Bombay Gal, Bill Hallman, and Cherry Bomb every once in a while. I love sneakers as well so Jimmy Jazz or DTLR for those. Big up all the tailors, seamstresses, and stylist that are out there. I loves ya!
LADYBRILLENigeria.com: You haven’t been to Nigeria lately, correct?
NAIRA:That would be correct! It’s been a long while…
LADYBRILLENigeria.com: What is your favorite Nigerian restaurant in the USA in terms of great food, decor and service to eat?
NAIRA: Buka Lounge in Stone Mountain is definitely my fav. Everyone goes there for the awesome food! You haven’t been to ATL until you’ve gone to see Babs and Buka Lounge. C’est Bon.
LADYBRILLENigeria.com: What about your favorite hangout stylish spot?
NAIRA: The studio. (Lol!) . . . Castleberry District has been our current hanging garden lately
LADYBRILLENigeria.com: (Lol! You stay hustling) Give us three of your favorite beauty tips?
NAIRA: Be sure to have a pair of dope sunglasses, lip gloss, and drink loads of water for a clear skin.
LADYBRILLENigeria.com: For anyone that ever finds themselves in the limelight (giving a speech, performing, etc.), what is your number one tip on how to make sure they look well put together i.e. stylish?
NAIRA: As long as you’re comfortable in what you’re wearing you will exude confidence. What is style other than confidence?
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.
