CategoriesPolo Timesby

Polo Limited Unveils the Masters of Art Collection in Honour of Vincent van Gogh in Lagos.

Lagos, December 2023 — Nigeria’s leading luxury retail company, Polo Limited, and Providus Bank, hosted a spellbinding Montblanc Collector’s Evening on the 6th of December 2023 in Victoria Island, Lagos. This exclusive event celebrated the artistry of Montblanc’s first Masters of Art collection of writing instruments in honour of Vincent van Gogh.

The unveiling took place on Wednesday, 6th December, 2023 at the Providus Bank pent house where its interior was transformed to mirror Saint-Remy-de-Provence, a town in Southern France where the 19th century Master of Art, Vincent van Gogh lived most of his life as an artist. Guests were guided through wheat fields reminiscent of the scenery that became associated with much of Vincent van Gogh’s work.

The evening unfolded with a captivating showcase of Montblanc’s homage to Vincent van Gogh writing instruments, providing discerning clients with an immersive journey through the brand’s legacy of precision and craftsmanship. Limited-edition pieces, each a masterpiece in its own right, were displayed, allowing clients explore the artistry behind these coveted collector’s items.

Mr. John Obayuwana, Managing Director, Polo Limited said, “it was a real pleasure meeting some of the avid pen collectors while celebrating the exceptional artistry of Montblanc’s craftsmanship”

About Polo Limited:

Polo Luxury is the leading luxury goods company in Nigeria. Founded in 1987, our reason for being is the dedication to a world of beauty and a way of life that celebrates excellence and puts a premium on fine craftsmanship. We are the Nigerian partner of some of the most prestigious luxury brands in the world and have become a reference point in West Africa as a maison of high-end Swiss watches, writing instruments and accessories. We are the authorised retailer of brands such as Rolex, Cartier, Chopard, Piaget, Bovet, IWC Schaffhausen and Omega, Franck Muller, Montblanc accessories, and jewellery brands like Messika, Yoko London, among others.

About Montblanc

Synonymous with excellence in craftsmanship and design, Montblanc has been pushing the boundaries of innovation ever since the Maison first revolutionized the culture of writing in 1906. Ingenuity and imagination continue to be driving forces for the Maison today as it advances its expression of fine craftsmanship across product categories: writing instruments, watches, leather goods, new technologies and accessories.

Reflecting upon its ongoing mission to create fine lifetime companions born from bold ideas and expertly crafted through the skills of Maison’s artisans, the iconic Montblanc Emblem has become the ultimate seal of performance, quality and an expression of sophisticated style. As part of its ongoing commitment to elevating and supporting those who strive to leave their mark, Montblanc continues to assert its encouragement of education programs around the world and initiatives that inspire people to express their full potential.

For more enquiries, please visit www.pololuxury.com

CategoriesPolo Times Style Talkby

Polo Avenue Unveils ‘Eden’: A Striking SS24 Collection in Exclusive Partnership with Banke Kuku

Polo Avenue, has announced its collaboration with Nigerian fashion designer Banke Kuku for this year’s Polo Fashion Series event.

This collaboration aligns with Polo Avenue’s dedication to promoting growth and vitality in the African fashion industry. With over 35 years of industry expertise, Polo Avenue remains steadfast in fulfilling its longstanding commitment to providing unwavering support to emerging and exceptional fashion brands in Africa through its annual event, the Polo Fashion Series.

The launch of this collection will mark a new direction for the Banke Kuku brand, one that emphasises craftsmanship while elevating the mainline with new seasonal prints. This season will unveil a first-ever ‘Atelier Capsule’ collection showing creations of a couture-style approach, employing elaborate embellishment and never-before-seen embroidery.

The inspiration behind the “Atelier Capsule” drop stemmed from the consistent requests from loyal Banke Kuku clientele and the remarkable collaborations the brand has fostered with creative luminaries. Furthermore, Polo Avenue is delighted to announce that this exclusive collection will be accessible at all Polo Avenue boutiques across the nation.

Drawing cues from Banke’s near-meditative morning walks and transporting her to serene gardens reminiscent of Eden has led to a rich set of new prints based on Lagos’ stunning fauna and flora, adding to the already vibrant print library. Nature is a recurrent theme both in the print and collection designs, intertwined with the impactful work Banke Kuku continues to be involved in.

The brand’s platform, ‘Prints for Purpose, sees Banke support local causes such as the Nigerian Conservation Foundation, providing donations to help preserve natural wildlife in Nigeria. The EDEN collection is a manifestation of this passion for the outdoors—a dreamy and scenic collection with silhouettes reflecting the key essence of the brand’s Occasion Loungewear, delivered this season with an ethereal twist.

Introducing a fresh perspective on occasion wear with EDEN, Banke is offering her clients, loyal and future, the possibility of “building your look” through layering monogrammed and statement prints conveying movement across the spectrum. This principle of “combinability” is a modern way to use prints and layer light textiles, promoting inclusivity and diversity.

Lagos has become a fertile fashion hub, where “creativity is currency,” according to Banke, who frequently collaborates with musicians, contemporary artists, and designers to help propagate this creative fertility onto the international scene.

The prints tell captivating tales of the plants and animals hailing from the brand’s home, Nigeria. Hummingbirds whisper to Bougainvillea. Ladybirds amid Nigeria’s national flower, the Yellow Trumpet, and the brand’s new signature monogram in colours inspired by natural elements: earth, water, fire, and air.

Description of Key Pieces to Follow

Eden will be available for purchase online at www.bankekuku.com, Polo Avenue, and in-store at B1–B3, 2 Alexander Road, Ikoyi Lagos, and farfetch.com.

Banke Kuku

Now Lagos-based, Banke Kuku studied her craft in London, graduating from the prestigious Chelsea College of Art and Design and Central Saint Martins before moving back to her native Nigeria. From Lagos, she has built an impressive repertoire as a leading designer, dressing A-listers and creatives, including Gabrielle Union, Davido, Naomi Campbell, and Kelly Rowland.

Dedicated to amplifying the beauty and intricacies of African culture and practices, Banke is said to have been a prominent voice on the world stage. In June 2023, Kuku was a guest judge on BBC One’s programme. The Great British Sewing Bee shared traditional West African sewing values with the contestants and viewers, and her work has been featured in the likes of Vogue, WWD, BBC, and Marie Claire.

About Polo Avenue

Polo Avenue stands as the ultimate luxury fashion destination in West Africa, boasting an extensive collection from some of the world’s most prestigious fashion houses. It has solidified its status as the go-to choice for fashion enthusiasts by offering a remarkable blend of iconic brands rarely found elsewhere in the region while providing support to emerging and exceptionally creative local designers.

Polo Avenue is dedicated to creating a world of beauty and upholding a lifestyle that celebrates excellence and fine craftsmanship. Being part of the Pololuxury Group, the company leverages over 30 years of industry experience to meticulously curate a selection of vibrant pieces that ignite joy.

CategoriesPolo Times Style Talkby

TOP 10 VALENTINE’S DAY GIFT IDEAS FOR HIM AND HER

It is quite easy to get carried away with the business of everyday life that we forget one of the most important holidays in the year; Valentine’s Day. While this is quite understandable, it is not an excuse to forget to celebrate the most important people in your life. Whether you’re shopping for your workaholic husband, your girlfriend who’s just started a new business, or your partner who just moved into a new apartment; we’ve pulled together a master list of gift guides for all the special people in your life.

FOR HER

Dolce & Gabbana Keira DG Pop Heel Sandals in Red.

Alexander McQueen Small the Skull Croc Embossed Leather Crossbody bag

Dolce & Gabbana Rose Print Bustier Dress

Bottega Veneta Red Intrecciato Leather Cardholder.

Bottega Veneta – Metal Half-Rim Pink Sunglasses.

Valentino Crepe Couture V Logo Minidress

Crepe Couture V-Logo Minidress
Image

FOR HIM

Alexander McQueen Hybrid Logo Slide Sandal

Amiri Men’s Red Wes Lang Edition All Over Skull Shirt

3. Amiri Bandana space-dyed cotton sweatpants

Palm Angels Classic Logo Cap Beige White

Casablanca Graphic-Print Long-Sleeve Shirt

Etro Paisley Jacquard Shirt

Valentino Garavani Rockrunner Sneakers

CategoriesPolo Timesby

SIGHTS FROM THE POLO AVENUE GENERATION Z PARTY

The premises of the Polo Avenue boutique at Lekki Lagos was transformed into a wonderland of the best fashion brands for the Polo Gen Z Party which took place on Tuesday, 27th December 2022. The boutique ambience was complete with installed street signages giving guests a hint of the brands on display at the event.

The Polo Avenue Lekki boutique which houses some of the world’s most glamorous fashion brands was given a full makeover for the event, with brands like Palm Angels, Amiri, Heron Preston and Alexander McQueen taking centre stage. The concept of the event was ‘redefining luxury fashion for the younger generation’, and accordingly, the entire boutique saw a wide collection of pieces from brands that appeal more to the referred audience this season. Pieces ranging from t-shirts, shorts, hoodies, tracksuits and denim outfits were on full display along with footwear like sneakers, boots, and slides.

The event was well attended by top fashion-conscious millenials who trooped in to check out the new pieces. It was an evening of activities hosted by international image consultant, Benson Edo and Ireti Zaccheaus, founder Street Souk. A major highlight of the event was the fashion conversation session handled by Benson, who took guests through various styled pieces, talking about the trends of the season and how each piece stood out in their own unique way. Speaking at the event, Benson Edo said, “The dynamics of fashion is changing quickly from the way we used to know or perceive it. It’s amazing how the younger generation are embodying this change and doing so flawlessly.”

Pieces styled at the party are available for sale at the Polo Avenue Victoria Island boutique, Plot 166, Ozumba Mbadiwe Avenue, and at the Lekki boutique,12e, Admiralty Way.

Polo Avenue is a multi-brand and Nigeria’s premier luxury fashion destination that focuses on fashion, leather goods, footwears and fragrances from some of the world’s most revered brands such as Gucci, Jimmy Choo, Dolce & Gabbana, Bottega Veneta, Valentino, Amina Muaddi, Casablanca, Amiri, Berluti, Palm Angels, Balenciaga, Salvatore Ferragamo, Les Petite Joeuers, Lidford, Giuseppe Zanotti, among others.
CategoriesPolo Timesby

INTRODUCING THE POLO BOSS LADY SUNGLASSES

Polo Avenue, Nigeria’s foremost luxury fashion company is ringing in the yuletide season with the launch of its new eyewear collection produced in collaboration with the world’s leading brand for luxury eyewear, Anna-Karin Karlsson.

Big, bold and audacious, the uber-chic sunglasses collection named ‘The Polo Boss Lady’ come in Anna-Karin Karlsson’s signature oversized frames with one peculiar style. Each piece features one flat hexagonal frame and another square frame, each bejewelled with hundreds of hand-set crystals. With immaculate executions and detailed craftsmanship, the frames are produced in titanium and hand carved into individual perfection by one of the greatest Japanese titanium eyewear masters.

The exclusive new collection has become the hottest fashion accessory right now, catching the attention of major style enthusiasts and fashion aficionados in the country. The collection is introduced in four colourways of black and purple, black and green, all black bejewelled frames with the last pair featuring an all-black glossy frame.

Characterised by lavish glamour, and ultra-feminine designs contrasted by strong sharp lines, the Polo Boss Lady Eyewear collection is a bold expression of Polo Avenue Creative Director, Jennifer Obayuwana’s style expertise. Acting as the confident finishing touch to stylish ensembles, pieces from this collection celebrate the art of detail synonymous with the Swedish luxury eyewear brand and leave a hint of modernity through its tinted lenses that bring an effortless statement tone to daily edits.

The luxurious eyewear is available for sale only at the Polo Avenue boutiques in Lagos, Nigeria.

CategoriesPolo Timesby

STYLE PIECES TO OWN NOW!

Summer – the most exciting fashion season has come and gone and a lot of fashion lovers are back to snuggling up in oversized comfy clothes as the weather slowly gets colder. However, as we crash collectively down to earth, plunged abruptly from summer into deep gloom, would it perhaps not be the worst idea to remember there are actually some nice things about autumn?

 

What has the power to cheer you up, to keep you warm, to help reframe the change of season in a way that might put a spring in your step? Fashion does! So, we have put together classic looks and select pieces in rich vibrant colours to not only cheer you up, but also to elegantly elevate your style this season. 

 Dolce & Gabbana logo-plaque tote bag

Perfect for keeping your essentials with you at all times, this tote bag comes in a fine calf leather material with patent finish.

 Dolce & Gabbana logo-plaque tote bag

These Amina Muaddi’s torquoise satin begum slingback pumps are crafted with an elegant fluted heel and pointed toe with a sparkling crystal embellishment for high-octane appeal.

Dolce & Gabbana Iguana-print calfskin mules

Perfect for any and every outfit, this DG Iguana-print calfskin mules are what we’ll describe as sartorial all-rounders. They are definitely a wardrobe mainstay.

Boyy Karl 19 Gold Buckle Khaki Brown

An iconic and timeless accessory made in a variety of different materials and sizes, this Boyy Bag embodies the very best of detailed craftsmanship.

Casablanca Le Vol Ideal Cuban Collar Silk Shirt

Step out in this relaxed long sleeve shirt in silk featuring a graphic print allover with a Cuban collar, button fastening and a patch pocket on the chest.

Casablanca Para’ Baseball Cap

Add a unique edge to your look with this Casablanca Para’ Baseball Cap in solid colour cotton. It also features a contrast embroidery logo in relief at front and brim, top breathing holes and adjustable metal buckle at back.

Dolce & Gabbana Phone Bag with Branded Maxi-Plate

This Dolce & Gabbana phone bag in mirrored-effect calfskin features the branded maxi-plate with two metal plating finishes. Thanks to the detachable and adjustable strap, this delectable phone bag can be carried over the shoulder or by hand.

Amina Muaddi Robyn Crystal-embellished Leather Mules

These ‘Robyn’ leather mules have contemporary square toes and signature martini glass-shaped heels. The brass-toned leather has been made in Italy with a subtle sheen that complements the crystal-embellished ankle straps.

Gianvito Rossi Black Massimo Slipper

These ‘Robyn’ leather mules have contemporary square toes and signature martini glass-shaped heels. The brass-toned leather has been made in Italy with a subtle sheen that complements the crystal-embellished ankle straps.

CategoriesPolo Times Style Talkby

STYLE MEETS REFINEMENT IN POLO AVENUE’S SPRING/SUMMER 2022 CAMPAIGN.

Polo Avenue’s Spring/Summer 2022 campaign celebrates the rise of new dimensions in fashion. Artistically brought to life on a blank canvas of white colour, the campaign skillfully represents the transitioning of style as we know it, to extraordinary dimensions through the celebration of its audacity, echoes of bright colours and the joy of seamless composition.

Taking inspiration from the fresher, bolder looks of this season, the new campaign speaks to taste, class and refinement, features that are intrinsically present in every sleek, edgy and super stylish piece of the collection.
Directed and photographed by award-winning creative director, Daniel Obasi, the new campaign featured models against graphic, monochrome backgrounds, the best canvas to reflect the new dimensions of style.

It also features innovative pieces from Alexander McQueen, brilliant hues from Dolce & Gabbana, including other world celebrated designers such as Casablanca, Amiri, Bottega Veneta, and Italian shoe designers, Gianvito Rossi and Aquazzura. They range from structured blazers, to tailored suiting and flowery dresses. For footwears, the campaign featured lug boots, oxfords, chunky sneakers and embellished heels.

The new SS22 Collection is now available for sale at all Polo Avenue stores in Lagos and online.

CategoriesPolo Timesby

POLO AVENUE RE-IMAGINES STYLE IN ITS SPRING/SUMMER 2022 CAMPAIGN

The Polo Avenue Spring/Summer 2022 campaign brings to life style’s new dimensions in a series of fresh portraits and videos created on a monochrome canvas. Universal garments such as sweaters, blazers, tailored suits, and more are stylishly re-created in brighter, bolder, more fun colours. The photographic style also draws attention to the clothes, revealing the harmony of colours, and finesse of their details.

Steered by the central theme of ‘Refinement’ inherent in every piece, the new Spring/Summer 2022 Collection, features sleek, edgy and super stylish pieces, representing the season’s fresher and bolder looks.
The new campaign also features innovative pieces from Alexander McQueen, brilliant hues from Dolce & Gabbana, and other prestigious international designers such as Casablanca, Amiri, Bottega Veneta, and Italian shoe designers, Gianvito Rossi and Aquazzura.

Directed by award-winning creative director, Daniel Obasi, the campaign reflects the essence of the collection which celebrates the re-definition and audacity of style, echoes of bright colours and a stunning atmosphere.
The new SS22 Collection is now available for sale at all Polo Avenue stores in Lagos and online.

 

CategoriesPolo Times Style Talkby

The 6 Perfect Shoes for Every Easter Occasion

As the Easter celebrations draw near, so does Spring’s most glamorous events. Get the perfect shoes you need to rock every event this Easter.

Aquazzura Gatsby Sling 105

A perfect party shoe to make every woman feel wonderful. Made from shiny specchio leather in shimmery silver, this open toe style features dazzling crystals, and a transparent PVC sling back strap for a barely-there effect.

Mach & Mach Double Bow Crystal-Embellished PVC Pumps

This eye-catching Mach & Mach sandals will elevate any ensemble! Made of iridescent patent leather, the shimmering double silver bow on the top adds pure elegance to this pair.

Valentino Garavani Nude Roman Stud T-Strap Sandals

Graceful timeless silhouettes with a bit of edge. Crafted with exceptional detail, this Roman-Stud T-Strap Sandals will give brilliance to your every step this Easter.

Amina Muaddi Rainbow Crystals Gilda Sandals in patent blue

Adding a sparkling touch to your steps this celebratory season. Meet the Amina Muaddi Gilda Sandals, your most trusted companion this season

Dolce & Gabbana DG Heels

A sight to behold! Get into the festive mood in this D&G sandals. Crafted with meticulous detailing, they’re perfect for glamorous soirees and events.

Valentino Rockstud Alcove Kidskin and Patent-Leather Pump

A glamorous beauty. This Valentino Rockstud Alcove Pumps are the essence of feminity. A classic comfy mid heel pump can take you from desk to dinner, effortlessly

CategoriesPolo Timesby

Get to know Banke Kuku

Born in Lagos in the 1980’s, Banke Kuku moved to the United Kingdom at the age of eight. At the age of 19, Banke graduated from Central St Martins College and then Chelsea College of Art and Design, having gained a bachelor degree in Textiles. In 2011, Banke launched the textiles arm of her business, after working at a number of international fashion houses and with the leading interior company, Designers Guild, assisting with fabric design for the Royal collection which showcased at Buckingham Palace in 2010. The cultural fusion, between the country of her birth and the country where she spent her formative years, has heavily influenced her bold patterns, resulting in statement prints with captivating impact. 

Over the years, Banke Kuku Textiles has collaborated with brands to create exquisite and unique pieces. Her collaborative designs are created clients’ meticulous taste, as well as according to project briefs. 

Collaborations range from: 

• Fashion prints for seasonal collections 

• Prints and product design for fashion and lifestyle accessories 

• Interior fabrics and furniture for residential and corporate (hotels, restaurants, bars, office spaces) clients. 

The resultant designs, through collaborations with fashion houses including Duro Olowu, Jewel by Lisa, Virgos Lounge and Lot78, have been worn by the likes of Michelle Obama and Lupita Nyongo as well as gracing the catwalk in New York Fashion Week. In 2013, Banke launched the interiors arm of her business, which was inspired by her dedication to and creativity in fusing West African and Western cultures to create a sense of a modern Africa, with a design aesthetic that Banke Kuku is a striking kaleidoscope of colour and vibrancy.

 Each design is then used as a stencil to create luxurious fabrics for interiors, soft furnishings and fashion. All products meet international quality standards. Positive reactions to her interiors were almost immediate with orders from prestigious customers such as Selfridges, Aynhoe Park Hotel Oxford, Le Bon Marche Paris, Bazar et Grande Manger Tokyo and ABC Carpet and Homes New York to name a few. In 2014, Banke Kuku Textiles was selected from thousands of applicants to win Triumph’s ‘Women in Making’ competition for female creatives. The judging panel

 included fashion stalwarts Roksanda Ilincic and Sophia Webster. In 2019, Banke Kuku opened her Lagos boutique for women where she debuted her first womenswear and accessories collection. 

This October, Banke Kuku is collaborating with Polo Avenue to showcase her SS22 collection in her first ever fashion event.