Meet Estella - Monalisa Magazine's Fashion Editor

Seven years ago Estella was an IT personnel. She later moved to the US to enhance her passion for fashion. It’s been many years, now Estella is a well-known fashion designer, crossing international markets and creating some unique designs that stay embedded in the hearts of fashion lovers. She’s back to Nigeria to enjoy the sun, take her business to the next level, and also wear the professional sash as fashion editor of Monalisa magazine- the new product from Nollywood actress, Monalisa Chinda. Meet Estella Ogbonna…

How would you describe the feeling of being part of Monalisa’s magazine?
I would describe the feeling as good; it is nice being part of the magazine crew, we have a wonderful and creative crew and the success of the magazine was our joy. So the only way to describe the feeling of being part of Monalisa magazine is good.

Tell us a bit about your typical work day in the office?
It depends on what you have planned for the day. It could be a photo shoot, it could be writing articles…various events can come in a day. Getting content for the magazine is quite a busy schedule so no two days are the same; nothing predictable.

What has been the high point since the launch of the magazine?
I think the high point is actually the launch, even though I saw the magazine before everyone else, the feedback so far has been wonderful, people love it and gives me joy; it makes all the sleepless nights worth the while.

You have been consistently involved with fashion, both home and abroad. What does it take to excel in the business?
Just like every other business- persistence, having in mind what you know how to do best. Fashion is a God-given talent; my success story is not complete without God. I moved from IT to fashion. And the ride has been amazing; patronage is incredible. I am flattered by life’s many opportunities!

As a fashion editor, what do you bring to the table that is different from the usual?
When you see a copy of Monalisa magazine, you will see that everybody on our crew did something different. Our magazine is the first luxury magazine in Nigeria and in West Africa. 336 pages of high fashion, luxury, styles, etc so I say our crew members are wonderful considering the number of us that put that project together.

What inspires you to get up every day?
I am a go-getter that is my nature. I detest lazy people, I detest people that don’t have goals. My inspiration every day is to achieve something great. I have life, that is a gift from God; He has giving me the talent so it is up to me to use it.

Which fellow designer do you admire home and abroad?
If you are creative and know the technicality of couture…everybody is inspired differently, that is the kind I would admire. I love certain designs that might not appeal to some other designer, so our tastes is different. I meet top designers every day, they all do amazing things.

What’s the best accessory a woman and a man should have?
Every woman should have earrings, of course. And then for guys, if you ask me I would say a cute wrist watch would do. But it all depends on people’s style and preference; personally, I don’t wear necklaces, maybe only for a special occasion. I am not a fan of accessories. I love big bold earrings though; and that’s because my hair is low and coloured so I put statement earrings.  

What should we expect from your private brand in 2014?
A lot. From all indications, I’m likely going to be staying in Nigeria now so expect a lot. I’m geared up to do a lot, channeling my energy to making the most of the opportunities and skill I have been blessed with.culled

*sigh*