“Fashion is an art, and I am the artist,”declares Goodnews Emmanuel, a rising star in the Nigerian fashion scene. His journey as a stylist is not just about dressing celebrities; it’s a personal odyssey of creativity, resilience, and a profound love for African fashion. From working with some of Nigeria’s most celebrated figures to launching his own fashion consulting firm, Emmanuel’s narrative is one of passion and purpose.
Growing up in Nigeria, Emmanuel was always captivated by the transformative power of clothing. “Fashion has always been a way for me to express myself,” he explains. As a child, he would often watch fashion shows and admire the way clothing could tell a story. This fascination evolved into a commitment to making his mark in the industry. “I realized early on that fashion is not just about trends; it’s about identity, culture, and confidence,” he reflects.
Emmanuel’s initial foray into styling came through an unpaid gig, assisting a renowned stylist on a local magazine photoshoot. “That was my first taste of the industry,” he recalls. Although he wasn’t compensated, the experience opened his eyes to the inner workings of fashion and ignited his desire to carve out a space for himself. “It was a stepping stone, and I learned so much in a short time,” he adds with a sense of gratitude.
Despite his rapid ascent, Emmanuel faced challenges navigating the competitive landscape of fashion. He often found himself in spaces dominated by established names, but his unique vision and work ethic set him apart. He insists that dedication and resilience are crucial in this industry. “People see the glamour, but they don’t see the late nights, the hard work, and the sacrifices,” he emphasizes. His commitment to his craft has earned him the reputation of being a delight to work with, a sentiment echoed by fellow industry figures like Chude and Taymesan, who recently described him as not just talented but also incredibly hardworking.
Crafting Unique Identities
For Emmanuel, styling transcends mere aesthetics; it’s about understanding the individual behind the clothes. “When I start a project, I immerse myself in my client’s world,” he explains. This approach allows him to create looks that resonate deeply with each client’s personality, lifestyle, and aspirations.
His work with high-profile clients showcases his ability to maintain individuality while delivering stunning results. Among his top clients, he names:
- Priscilla Ojo – Her style is vibrant and playful, bursting with colors that reflect her youthful energy. Emmanuel appreciates her adventurous spirit, which allows for creative freedom in styling.
- Enioluwa – Known for his edgy and modern looks, Enioluwa is unafraid to take fashion risks. Emmanuel finds this thrilling, as it challenges him to think outside the box.
- Osas Ighodaro – With her sleek and sophisticated style, Osas embodies glamour. Emmanuel loves the dramatic flair she brings to red carpet events, allowing him to craft memorable ensembles.
- Hilda Baci – Effortlessly chic and polished, Hilda’s refined aesthetic inspires Emmanuel to focus on elegance and attention to detail, ensuring she always looks stunning.
- Mariam Adeyemi – Her bohemian and eclectic style offers Emmanuel the chance to explore a mix of textures and colors, resulting in unique and expressive looks.
“Every client has a distinct voice, and it’s my job to amplify that,” he asserts. Emmanuel’s dedication to creating unique looks has garnered him a loyal following among celebrities, who appreciate his innovative approach and attention to detail.
The Philosophy Behind the Style
One aspect of Emmanuel’s philosophy that stands out is his aversion to the term “celebrity stylist.” “I find it limiting,” he says candidly. “It confines you to working with only celebrity clients, and I want to break free from that box.” Instead, he envisions a broader role for himself as a stylist who celebrates diverse forms of expression through fashion. This perspective aligns with his commitment to promoting African fashion on a global scale, a mission he pursues with fervor.
“Fashion is a reflection of culture, and I want to elevate African designers and style,” he explains passionately. Emmanuel believes that by showcasing the richness and diversity of African fashion, he can contribute to a larger narrative that celebrates the continent’s creative potential. His work aims to inspire others to embrace their heritage and express it through fashion.
A Journey of Self-Discovery
Emmanuel’s personal style journey has been one of evolution and self-acceptance. “I used to play it safe with my wardrobe, sticking to neutral colors and classic silhouettes,” he admits. However, as he gained confidence in his craft and his identity, he began to experiment with bolder choices. “Now, I embrace colors and patterns that reflect my personality,” he reveals. This transformation has not only enriched his own style but also allowed him to connect more deeply with his clients and followers.
His wardrobe is a testament to this evolution, featuring a range of looks that span from casual streetwear to high-fashion ensembles. “I love mixing styles and pushing boundaries,” he says, showcasing his versatility. Emmanuel also places great importance on collaboration, particularly with local designers and brands. “Working with Nigerian creatives is a dream come true,” he shares. “It’s a beautiful way to foster community and celebrate our talent.”
Looking Forward
As Emmanuel reflects on his achievements, he is also focused on the future. “2024 was a landmark year for me,” he notes, having launched his fashion consulting firm and collaborated with several prominent designers. “But I’m excited for what’s to come,” he adds with enthusiasm. His vision for 2025 includes a series of innovative projects, including a fashion exhibition that showcases the work of emerging African designers and a mentorship program for aspiring stylists.
“I want to give back to the community that has supported me,” he emphasizes. Emmanuel believes that nurturing the next generation of stylists is crucial for the continued growth and evolution of the fashion industry. “There’s so much talent out there waiting to be discovered,” he says. His commitment to mentorship aligns with his belief that fashion is a collaborative effort, and he hopes to inspire others to pursue their dreams.
A Message of Empowerment
To aspiring stylists and creatives, Emmanuel offers sage advice: “Never underestimate the power of hard work and perseverance. This industry can be tough, but if you stay true to yourself and keep pushing, great things will happen.” His journey is proof that passion and dedication can lead to remarkable opportunities, even in the face of challenges.
“Always remember why you started,” he adds, encouraging others to hold onto their initial motivation. Emmanuel’s journey is not just about personal success; it’s about uplifting the community and inspiring others to embrace their creativity.
In a rapidly changing fashion landscape, Emmanuel Goodnews stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration. His commitment to authenticity, creativity, and the celebration of African fashion reflects a broader movement toward inclusivity and diversity in the industry. Each look he curates and each project he undertakes tells a story—one of resilience, self-expression, and the power of fashion to transform lives.
As he continues to carve out his niche in the world of styling, Goodnews Emmanuel invites us to join him on this vibrant journey. “Fashion is about more than clothes; it’s about how we express our identities and connect with one another,” he asserts. With each step he takes, he challenges the status quo, urging both clients and followers to embrace their unique styles and wear their confidence proudly.
In Emmanuel Goodnews, we find not just a stylist but a visionary—a man dedicated to reshaping the narrative around African fashion and empowering others to find their voice through style. His journey is a testament to the belief that fashion is an art form, and he is here to paint a masterpiece.
Written by: Taiwo Adesokan.
