Working as a civil servant, Adekelu Ogunleye, the University of Lagos English graduate turned stylist took her passion of beautifying people to her work place, making few colleagues to look good. Over the years, Kelu, as she is fondly called, styled top celebrities including Tuface, Waje, Kalu Ikeagwu, Funlola Aofiyebi and Oluchi Onwuegbu Orland: for different shows. When it comes to experimenting style with beauty, the brain behind Kelu Image Consultants (KIC) is known for adding unique touch to anyone who wants to look fabulous. The seventh child in a family of 10; Kelu, whose father is a lawyer and mum, a retired custom officer, tells OYINDAMOLA LAWAL what style and beauty mean to her.
WHAT’S fashion to you?
It’s defined by the choices of our clothes; how we carry ourselves; our personalities and our views of the world.
And style
It’s the way things are done. There are no limits to how something can be expressed, designed or presented, whether that thing is a story, a staircase or a stiletto shoe.
How would you define your style of dressing?
It’s sexy and stylish.
Favourite piece of clothing
It’s got to be shift dresses made from soft fabrics. I feel very comfortable in them. They are multi-functional.
Favourite designer
Internationally, it’s Korto Momolu. Her designs are romantic, soft and feminine. Locally, it’s Ahdookeh, she pays a lot of attention to details; using local fabrics to create sophisticated pieces.
Favourite accessories designer
I buy accessories jewelries from Matalan/peacock in the UK. Both stores are into vintage pieces, which I find stylish and unusual.
Most cherished possession
My shoes. I love all of them equally — the good, the bad and the ugly. I treat them like a girl would treat the boy she loves so much.
Signature scent
Euphoria by Calvin Klein.
Favourite make up and beauty product(s)
Victoria Secret, beauty rush lip-gloss; it gives me the pout. Clinique facial wash; it keeps me fresh all day.
Fashion icon
I love Sarah Jessica Parker’s style. She knows what to wear, how to wear it and when to wear it. And just like me, she’s addicted to shoes.
Role models
Ifeoma Williams and Rachel Zoe.
Fashion muse
Street Style is trending. It’s the re-birth of fashion where rules are broken and everyone is allowed to express him or herself.
Where would you consider the sexiest part of your body?
My eyes. Well, so, I was told.
What do you consider as fashion faux pas?
Never wear a small top on leggings. They are not trouser pants. Please cover your bum.
Projection into the future
I look forward to building an empire where everything fashion/style is incorporated and it will extend to having my own TV show on fashion and as well create job opportunities for people.
Inspiration
My mother is my inspiration. She epitomises glamour. Everything about her is beautiful — her hair, jewelry, shoes and those long leather bags. Through her olden days pictures, I have been inspired to revamp so many ready to wear outfits from the 60s and 70s vintage styles. I study her pictures whenever I need fresh ideas.
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