Born in Nigeria, Funmilayo Csilla Deri is a London/Budapest based fashion designer. Funlayo Deri pieces are luxurious and wearable. They celebrate the female form, emphasizing a woman’s curves while utilizing the most luxurious fabrics and the finest cuts and detailing.What is fashion design to you, and how did you start?
Fashion design to me is an art. Designing allows me to take my inspirations and turn them into beautiful creations. There is a story behind each piece that I create and they are all made with the Funlayo Deri woman in mind. To me, fashion design is not about not about creating generic, disposable pieces. It’s about creating clothes that the wearer will feel connected to, that she’ll have that special relationship with; pieces that allow her to show her distinctive nature.
My love for fashion comes from my stylish mother. She is my inspiration – a beautiful woman with great taste. She has such an eye for detail. As a child I used to help her design and make pieces as a hobby. Her mother was a designer, so I guess it runs in the family
What projects are you working on at the moment?
I am currently developing a collection that will be out in March. It’s inspired by a recent trip to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It was such a vibrant city – highly inspiring!
What is your vision for future collaborations between Africa and the global fashion industry?
As the demand and strong focus on African-inspired designs continues to grow, I would like to see African designers play a bigger role in the luxury goods market, being carried by major retailers worldwide – in stores such as Harrods, Bergdorf Goodman, Holt Renfrew, to name but a few; as well as African designers with their own retail outlets in international markets.
Seriously, we cannot wait to see Deri’s amazing collection that she will launch in March! I can only imagine what she has created from her inspired trip to Brazil!
Adeus! Until Next Time!
View her past AFWNY 2011 Runway Show Here:
FALL/WINTER 2012 COLLECTION :
PR J.O
