I admire Genevieve Nnaji’s style –Shuaibu

I admire Genevieve Nnaji’s style –Shuaibu

newtelegraphonline.com

Jun 24, 2017 2:51 AM

Dora Shuaibu is the CEO of Beautiq by Dora. In this interview with Deborah Ocheni, the graduate of Mass Communication who’s now a beautician speaks about her style, love for ankara prints, earrings, how she manages her time, challenges young entrepreneurs face in Nigeria and more

Describe your style in one word

Simple

How do you source for your product?

I am registered with top makeup products’ sellers. The likes of Zaron, Tara, Milani and more; this helps me avoid getting inferior products. Are your clients aware of this? Yes, most of my clients are sensitive to this and that is another edge I have in the business.

Do you have any specific research process when you start new collections of beads

? Yes, I try to know what is in vogue. I go into bead shops to see new designs and if possible learn how to make them too.

Was there anyone in your family who made you feel like becoming a fashion designer?

No one I must say.

Who inspires you the most in fashion industry?

Banke Mechida Lawal (Bmpro)

Where do you see Beautiq by Dora in five years’ time?

In five years’ time the sky will be starting point. Beautiq by Dora should be better and greater.

Are you a fan of ankara prints?

Yes, I love ankara prints so much that I recreate them in different designs.

What is your take on African traditional wears?

They are nothing but awesome. African traditional wears take you into Africa and your heritage. I love the feeling whenever I’m dressed in it. It takes me back to my origin.

Do you consider any fashion item indispensable?

Not really How easily do you get

your fashion items in Nigeria?

It’s easy for me to get my fashion items here because I have people that supply them.

What steals your attention while shopping?

Makeup products and beads

Which fashion accessory do you live for?

Earrings. I love earrings because they have a way of transforming a woman’s look.

Do you conform to trends?

I do conform to trends.

Which fashion trend do you love most?

I will go for the ankara fashion trend.

How comfortable do you feel in jeans and T-shirt?

I feel very comfortable.

What makes a woman well dressed?

A woman is well dressed when she dresses decently

Whose celebrity style do you like most?

Genevieve Nnaji

Fashion wise, do you have a role model?

I’m my model as I wear what I like and feel comfortable in without imitating anybody.

Is there anything you are unlikely to be caught wearing?

Nothing

What is your ready to go outfits?

Very free gown

When it comes to fashion, would you say your physique works to your advantage?

Not really

Which outfits take up most space in your wardrobe?

Maxi gowns

How did you come up with the name Beautiq by Dora and what is the message behind it?

The name Beautiq by Dora came to me due to my line of business. I am a professional makeup artist and bead maker both of which revolve around beautifying. And the name is working fine for me

Beauty market seems saturated, how do you intend to keep afloat?

Everybody can do one thing but how you go about doing yours is what stands you out. To remain afloat, I’ll be at my best in doing what I do best, while also continuing to learn new approaches to ensure I remain relevant.

How have you been able to cope in terms of paying bills?

Would you say it’s lucrative enough? It’s very lucrative if you know what you are doing and have your targets. It’s like getting paid while I enjoy what I do.

Does your background influence who you are now?

My background has a lot of positive influence in who I am today. I’ve got a lot of energy from my background and that’s part of what is helping me now.

Would you say you are satisfied with your choice of business?

I will say yes. Beautifying people is what I have passion for, I’m happy doing it and I am satisfied.

What is the major challenge young entrepreneurs face in Nigeria?

Young entrepreneurs face a lot of challenges in Nigeria some of which are: funding and inability to get to the target audience.

What do you think is the way out?

The government should come to the aid of young citizens who are ready to do something on their own.

Would you say government has done enough for creative people in Nigeria?

No; a lot still has to be done in the creative industry.

What inspires your various creations?

Anything that feels African inspires me

As a wife, mother and boss lady, how do you balance your time?

I try my best and God has been faithful. I also believe there is time for everything, so I keep it so.

You glow gorgeously even after having a kid; do you have any special beauty routine?

I don’t do anything special. I love natural things, so most of the things I use on my skin are natural products like black soap and Shea butter.