Mowalola Ogunlesi, born on March 25, 1995, is a renowned Nigerian-British fashion designer who has made a significant impact on the fashion world. Her unique designs and innovative use of textiles have captivated audiences worldwide. In addition to her success in the fashion industry, Mowalola is also a talented singer. This blog post delves into her early life, education, career achievements, and recent endeavors.
Mowalola Ogunlesi was born in Lagos State, Nigeria, to a family deeply rooted in fashion. Both her parents were fashion designers, and this upbringing immersed her in the world of fashion from a young age. At 12, she moved abroad to attend an all-girls Catholic boarding school in Surrey, England. After completing her basic education, she pursued a Bachelor of Arts in Fashion at Central Saint Martins-University of the Arts London. Later, she briefly enrolled in the Master of Arts program at the same institution but dropped out in 2018, seeking a more diverse and understanding environment.
Mowalola’s breakthrough came when she joined Fashion East, a non-profit organization supporting young designers, and made her London Fashion Week debut in January 2019, showcasing women’s wear. Her distinct style, inspired by London youth culture, drew attention from notable music artists like Kanye West, Drake, Steve Lacy, and Solange Knowles, who embraced her designs. Additionally, she collaborated with Skepta for his music video “Pure Water” and styled Barbie dolls for British Vogue’s 60th anniversary.
In June 2020, an exciting collaboration between Mowalola and Yeezy Gap was announced, solidifying her status as a rising star in the fashion industry. She gained recognition from Elle as one of the “10 Trailblazing Women Changing the Future You Need to Know” in October 2020. Despite taking a hiatus, Mowalola returned with a bang in June 2022, presenting her collection “Burglarwear” at Paris Men’s Fashion Week, showcasing her boundary-pushing creativity.
Not just limited to fashion, Mowalola expanded her horizons by teaming up with the footwear brand New Balance for a sneaker collaboration. The partnership reimagined New Balance’s 90/60 silhouette, resulting in two stunning colorways – purple with yellow accents and teal with pink accents. The sneakers have garnered significant attention and are expected to be in high demand.
Beyond her fashion prowess, Mowalola has also pursued a music career. In 2021, she released two singles titled “Truck” and “Wawa,” showcasing her versatility and creativity. Moreover, she featured on Namasenda’s single “Banana Clip,” further establishing herself as a multi-talented artist.
Conclusion
Mowalola Ogunlesi’s journey from Lagos to global recognition as a fashion designer and singer is a testament to her immense talent and dedication. With her non-traditional designs and ability to challenge norms, she continues to make waves in the fashion world. Additionally, her foray into the music industry and collaboration with New Balance have only added to her growing influence. As Mowalola’s star continues to rise, the world eagerly awaits her next ground-breaking ventures.
FAQs
Who is Mowalola Ogunlesi?
Mowalola Ogunlesi is a Nigerian-born fashion designer and singer based in London. Born on March 25, 1994, in Lagos, Nigeria, she is known for her avant-garde designs that blend Nigerian and London youth culture. She studied at Central Saint Martins and gained prominence with her debut menswear collection, “Psychedelic,” in 2017. Her work often features bold textiles like leather and PVC, creating non-traditional silhouettes.
What are some of Mowalola Ogunlesi’s notable collaborations?
Mowalola has collaborated with several high-profile brands and artists. In 2019, she designed outfits for Skepta’s “Pure Water” music video and was among six designers chosen by British Vogue to style Barbie dolls for the brand’s 60th anniversary. In 2020, she was appointed as the Design Director for the Yeezy Gap line, a partnership between Kanye West and Gap. Additionally, she collaborated with MGA Entertainment in 2022 to design a line of Bratz dolls.
What is Mowalola Ogunlesi’s estimated net worth?
As of May 2025, Mowalola Ogunlesi’s estimated net worth is approximately $1.28 million. This figure is based on various sources and reflects her earnings from fashion design, collaborations, and her brand’s performance.
What is the financial status of Mowalola’s fashion brand?
Mowalola Ltd, the fashion label founded by Ogunlesi in 2018, has shown significant growth. As of the latest financial reports, the company has a net worth of £1,673,037 and total current assets amounting to £1,690,968. The brand employs around 14 people and has reported revenues under £1 million, indicating a profitable but boutique-scale operation.
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