Hazel Aggrey-Orleans was born in Germany but grew up in Nigeria. After spending 17 years in Nigeria, she returned to Germany for a year before moving to the UK, where she is currently based. She worked in financial marketing for over 8 years, and since becoming a mother of two her priorities have changed and she decided to become self-employed and venture into the fashion industry.

FashionAfrica.com was glad to chat with sweet Hazel on her collection and what’s next.

FashionAfrica.com: Before coming out with this collection, how long did it take to get it all together?

Hazel: I would say about 2.5 years.

FA: How challenging did it get putting up your first collection?

H: I have had numerous challenges as a designer. Deciding on styles that would suit my target audience was difficult as was getting the African patterns to look crisp on silk fabric.

Also, being a mom of two toddlers, it was quite challenging at times to liaise between my work and yet still devote enough time to my kids but one thing that has kept me going, is my belief in myself. ‘Don’t depend on others for your happiness. It lies within you’.

FA: How was growing up for you, where did you grow up?

H: I grew up in Lagos, Ikeja and lived there for 17 years. My childhood in Lagos was a lot of fun and I wouldn’t have swapped it for the world. Having access to so much open space, great weather and friends allowed me a happy childhood.

FA: Why did you name your label, Orleans?

H: It derives from part of my name and is something I wanted to be personally identified with.

FA: With your designs, what do you hope to achieve for your buyers?

H: For them to see a sense of elegance and style in Orleans Designs.

F: What influences your work?

H: Colour, elegance and movement.

FA: Your collection is highly characterized with floral designs…what inspired that?

H: The inspiration for my designs comes from African patterns used on cottons, such as ankara fabrics.

FA: How do you stay creative?

H: By referencing other cultures and refusing to limit my sources of inspiration.

FA: What is the best thing about designing a piece of outfit?

H: Achieving the finished article, which is then enjoyed by its wearer.

FA: Who are some of your favourite designers?

H: My favourite designers are Diane van Furstenberg, Emanuel Ungaro, Dries van Noten and Matthew Williamson.

FA: Do you have shops here in Africa, if not, where else?

H: As of early this year, our collection will be accessible online at www.orleansdeisgns.com. It is also our goal to have our collection in stores in Nigeria, Ghana and South Africa.

FA: What are your aspirations for your brand?

H: To be known worldwide for our beautiful prints.

FA: Our best wishes! We wish the same.

Hazel’s Orleans Summer 2010 Collection:

 

- Ernest Nwangwu for FashionAfrica.com