Minutes with Ezinne Chinkata

Ezinne Chinkata needs little introduction as the heart and soul of the Nigerian fashion scene. In this exclusive interview with Konye Chelsea Nwabogor, Ezinne gives us advices on how to succeed in the fashion industry and also tells us about her new fashion boutique, ZINKATA.

How did you get started as a stylist?

It started off quite subconsciously. I had a natural knack for putting pieces together, and so I was always styling family and friends, without even considering it as a career path.

After my MSc in Environmental Management/BSc in Cell Biology and Genetics, I was at crossroads.

I decided to give it a try after people repeatedly asked me, at first meetings if I was a stylist... and the rest as they say is… black dresses and dithering high heels.

When did you realize you were really good at it?

I am deeply committed to empowering people and making them feel really awesome about themselves. Styling gave me that avenue. I realised I was pretty decent at it after my first photo-shoot. I got further validation of my skills when I went to the School of Style in LA. It was a great experience.

For those who don’t know, could you tell us a bit more about yourself?

I am a pretty straightforward and simple individual with a deep sense of purpose. I am on a very intriguing path/ journey. My deepest purpose is to share love and affect/effect positivity within and around as many people as I possibly can.

My blog/website serves as a medium for connecting with people; empowering them through inspiring words, fashion tips and general life’s experiences. It also celebrates African Fashion. I also run a retail store/ boutique, called Zinkata, which is a hub for one of a kind fashion pieces. Zinkata aims to embrace the female form and project its uniqueness one client at a time.

How would you describe your own style?

It’s Ezinne’s style. And totally dictated by my mood… mostly which is…“cool”?

What was was biggest challenge initially as a stylist in Nigeria’s budding fashion industry?

The toughest part was trying to move forward with briefs and themes with not so much to work with. No high street with readily available pieces, or showrooms /PR firms for fashion designers. There was hardly any structure. To break in, I had to work doubly hard. It was pretty tough but at the same time very exhilarating. I was deeply passionate and enjoyed all the challenges whilst trying my best to conquer and excel.

Is it safe to say you are the bridge between designers and their clients and have you ever contemplated taking it a step further by delving inot the deisn world yourself?

At the moment, I am committed to my store/clients and blog. Still I rule nothing out.

You’ve just launched a fashion store, could you tell us about it.

Zinkata is a charming boutique filled with unique fashion finds. It caters to a wide variety of style personas and body types. The store is made up of chic pieces sourced from all around the world. We have the special occasion pieces; which are more appropriate for the more extravagant outings. As well as the easy ready to wear pieces with a bit of a vintage timeless vibe. There are also some smatterings of amazing multifunctional Ankara outfits for the chic Afrocentric sisters.

There is something really cool in every corner. We sell at the same prices you would find the pieces abroad. A visit to the store is a very personal experience with expert advisory services. Zinkata aims to embrace the female form and project its uniqueness one client at a time.

Unwinding for me is focusing and getting some chilled out

time. Church in the early mornings is a great place to unwind, as well as my room with

a really good book and tea!

What other projects have you been working on lately?

Running the store and website/blog is quite demanding. But still I am developing and expanding on the processes. I am also working on expanding zinkata. com to have e-commerce options.

What most favourite shoot have you worked on recently?

Every shoot comes with its own special magic... I particularly enjoyed my last shoot photographed by Kelechi Amadi Obi. It was for Nigerian designer, Chidinma Obairi. She had the most exquisite pieces and it was really awesome watching the model, Tanzey Coetzee bring the pieces to life.

When it comes to dreams, what are some of yours?

To leave a really positive impact on my generation and the ones to come. To empower people and make them happy.

Who is your go-to designer and what’s your favourite Nigerian boutique?

Nigeria is filled with amazing designers. We are truly a talented nation. I would say I have different designers for different occasions, depending on the brief/theme and style I intend to pursue.

Favorite boutique? I am quite obsessed with Zinkata right now...

What influences your work?

Different factors influence my work. I particularly love watching old movies..

How do you define great style?

Being at peace and in tune with your personality. Aligning your fashion choices to highlight and project who you are and what you stand for.

What’s your favourite fashion item?

That’s hard! Shoes, sunglasses and vintage hats.

We know Lagos can be uber stressful. Where do you go to unwind in the city?

Unwinding for me is focusing and getting some chilled out time. Church in the early mornings is a great place to unwind, as well as my room with a really good book and tea!

What advice would you give to budding stylists?

Work very hard. Stay positive. Believe in yourself and stay kind.

Quiz

Vintage or couture?... Vintage Couture High heels or Wedges?... High Heels Spree or Steal? ... Steal Rock or Classic? ... Rock Book or Movie? ... Book Tom ford or DVF? ... DVF Rihanna or Beyoncé?... Both Beach or Mountains?... Mountains New York or Paris?... Both