Together with her mother, the Dakar-born, Paris-based Shade Affogbolo, founded Nash Prints. Their brand exclusively uses wax fabrics in classic fashion creations for women and men, twisted by cute and classy details.

“The designers at our brand are of both African and European origin. They want to promote the variety and beauty of wax fabrics and the savoir-faire of African artisans.”

For their production, they collaborate with a workshop owned by a local tailor in Cotonou, Benin. “Respecting and valuing the craft and skill of the tailors is very important in our collaboration with them. We also try to improve conditions and provide better equipment.”

For our Parisian adventure, Shade created looks fit for women of different generations and cultures, that merged the dynamism of the fashion capital and the spirit of her brand’s work.

As she always works with wax fabrics in her designs, it comes as no surprise that Shade is often spotted wearing Vlisco fabrics herself.

“I especially appreciate the classic and timeless fabrics that combine neat, small and big patterns, as well as brilliant and shaded colors. Those fabrics immediately add strength and joy to an outfit, I love that!”

Fun fact? Shade is not only known as a fashion designer, but also as La Petite Shade, after wowing millions of French viewers with her amazing singing on The Voice France!

Photo: Asna Diani