Raine Magazine's Exclusive Interview with Designer Vanessa Teye
B'venaj is a clothing and accessory brand which creates a division between the ordinary and extraordinary through eclecticism and demonstrates fashion in a unique avenue.
Designer Vanessa Teye describes her signature style as being feminine and eclectic with elements of vintage styling mixed with a modern touch, using African prints that are bold and refreshing. Much of the genius behind her designs relies on inspiration found in nature, the female figure and what is perceived on a daily basis.
Growing up in Ghana, Teye watched her mother transform her client’s closet into timeless pieces, which motivated her to pursue a career as a fashion designer. After completing high school she attended the Joyce Ababio college of creative design, where she studied intensely. After graduating she worked under the Designer, Joyce Ababio, where she honed her skills before establishing herself as a fashion designer.
We recently caught up Teye during Nolcha Fashion Week, where she was showcasing her eclectic designs to an anxious crowd of fashion aficionados.
Read along and find out more about B’venaj - an emerging designer with flair!
RAINE: Can you tell us the meaning behind your labels name?
TEYE: B'venaj is an acryonym of my siblings initial: B-Brandi, V-Vanessa(self), E-Eleasha, N-Nathalie, A-Abigail and J-John
RAINE: You have mentioned that your designs are influenced by the human figure. What part of the body is most appealing to you and why?
TEYE: Any fan of B'venaj knows that our items are very feminine. I love to accentuate a woman's waistline, while giving the illusion of an hour glass figure.
RAINE: You started to your career as a creative entrepreneur early, at the age of 13. How do you feel starting your career early on helped to prepare you for the present?
TEYE: Although I was certain about my career choice at an early age I did not start pursuing fashion design as my career until 2010. However being certain about my career choice at the age of 13 allowed me to pay attention to the challenges my mum experienced as a designer and prepared me for likely challenges today. For instance, dealing with clients and meeting deadlines which are very crucial in a fashion designers career.
RAINE: Can you talk about your challenges as a designer?
TEYE: Finding the right employees that understand what our brand requires has been our challenge for a while. However we are thankful to have a good team of employees and interns that can assist our brand to expand to higher heights.
Images courtesy of B'venaj