Posted by Lavender Haus
on May 26, 2025
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When someone wears a Shadiat piece, what sentiment or story do you hope they carry into the world?
I hope they carry a sense of pride, purpose, and presence. Each design is a quiet tribute to legacy, strength & self-expression. When someone wears SHADIAT I want them to feel like they are telling a story of who they are and where they come from with grace and confidence.
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Your work is redefining tradition. What first inspired you to weave modernity into the richness of Yoruba fashion?
It began with curiosity and deep respect. I was drawn to the beauty of Yoruba textiles and traditions, but I wanted to see them evolve. Merging modern elements with traditional forms felt like a natural way to keep our culture alive and relevant.
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Of all your creations, is there one that holds a special place in your heart—one that truly captured a moment?
Every piece I create carries a voice, sometimes it's the bride's story, a family heritage, or a quiet emotion waiting to be expressed. Each design speaks something breathtaking in its own way. It's not just about the fabric or the form, it's the meaning woven into it that makes every creation unforgetable.
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Fashion is relentless. How do you stay creatively anchored while evolving with the times?
Before I sketch or source fabric, I ask myself what emotion or message I want the design to carry. Trends are contemporary but authenticity has its own rhythm. By staying connected to my roots and purpose it helps me move with the times without losing myself.
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For emerging creatives looking to build something timeless and true—what’s the one guiding principle you’d share?
When your foundation is clear, your work has direction. Stay authentic, keep learning and remember that depth matters more than speed.
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You’ve dressed everyone from brides to celebrities. What does empowerment look like to you when someone wears Shadiat?
Empowerment to me is when someone wears a piece and instantly feels more connected to who they are. It's in the posture, the presence, the quiet confidence they exude. Whether it's a bride on her special day or a public figure on stage, I want each person to feel not just beautiful but affirmed. Like they’re stepping into their fullest, truest self.
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Your designs are rich in cultural significance. How intentional is your approach to preserving Yoruba identity through your work?
It's deeply intentional. I see fashion as a form of cultural storytelling. Every motif, fabric, silhouette, is a chance to preserve memory and identity in a meaningful, living way.
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Digital platforms have redefined fashion. How has Instagram shaped your brand’s voice and community?
Instagram has allowed me to connect directly with people who resonate with the brand. It's not just a platform, it's a storytelling base. Through it I've found a community that values authenticity, culture, and design with soul.
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What would you say to young designers trying to carve out space in the industry today?
Stay patient and stay true. The industry can be noisy, but your voice matters most when it's authentic. Focus on building substance over speed. Refine your craft, be open to learning and let your work speak for you with quiet confidence. There is space for you especially when you show up with clarity and purpose.
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If you had to sum up the legacy of Shadiat in one word or phrase, what would it be—and why?
“Rooted Elegance”
Because everything I create is grounded in heritage, yet shaped with refined simplicity. It's about honouring where we come from, while designing a future that feels graceful, meaningful, and lasting.