Serena Williams, one of the world’s best tennis star recently rocked a sleeveless Kimono jacket designed by a Nigerian designer, Jane Michael Ekanem. Reports from The News Agency of Nigeria revealed that the jacket was part of her fashion ensemble for the cover of Essence Magazine’s latest issue.
The designer, Jane Micheal Ekanem is a popular Nigerian fashion designer, who has styled Yemi Alade, Tiwa Savage and other Nigerian celebrities.
Looking at Serena’s style, she paired the Kimono with a floor-length skirt, white shirt and strappy heels which happened to be one of her favorite designs.
According to Ekanem, the Kimono represents light and energy, which Serena is known for globally.
Serena commented in an interview with Essence Magazine…I love fashion, obviously. It has to connect to me, first of all. I like things that are unusual, but also a little classic. It depends: It could be a crazy pop of color, and it’ll totally get me excited. Or it could be something fresh I haven’t seen before. Honestly, I can go in any direction. Just depends on how I feel.
Freedom means standing up and not being afraid to say, ‘I’m here’ or ‘Hear my voice’ or ‘This isn’t what I agreed to’ or ‘This isn’t fair and that isn’t right.’ That’s freedom for me.
The kimono featured inked artwork on the lapels by Laolu Senbajo, another Nigerian designer, was also responsible for Serena’s face art on the magazine cover.
Laolu, who is a popular name in the international fashion scene, is also a renowned face artist.
He has worked with notable brands like Nike, Bvlgari, Beyoncé, and most recently a Grace Jones-inspired bodysuit for Hollywood actress, Taraji P. Henson.
In the cover feature interview, Serena spoke about her take on the fashion world following the launch of her own fashion line ‘Serena’ in 2018.
Reacting to the cover, an excited Jane Ekanem, on Instagram @janemichaelekanem appreciated Serena for rocking the designs.