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When the history books of fashion in Zimbabwe list the names of individuals who raised our flag to international heights, be assured the name TIR Fashion House will be there.
Founder and creative director Danielle Allen took a few minutes from her jet setter life to speak to me.
Lady on the Boat (LOB) : First things first then, what is your government name?
Danielle Allen (DA): I was born Danielle Simba Allen
LOB: Is there a name by which you prefer to call?
DA: Just Dani
LOB: Alright Dani, what is the most ridiculous nickname you have ever had?
DA: Oyinbo/Murungu (means white person In Yoruba(Lagos) Shona(Zimbabwe)
LOB: LOL!! Fluffy morning slippers or rubber flip flops?
DA: Rubber flip flops although I have my moments when I do wear my fluffys.
LOB: Are you left-handed or right-handed?
DA: Right handed to write with but left handed on most other things.
LOB: That’s such a rarity! But I won’t dwell on it. What is your favorite way to spend your down time?
DA: It has to be reading & watching Movies
LOB: What is the first song you ever fell in love with?
DA: Kriss Kross – Jump (I was a bit of a tomboy back then)
LOB: Lol! I get it…i really do! Dani, in your world what is fashion?
DA: Fashion is a way of expressing yourself through trends.
LOB: Of the shows you have been part of, which one was your favorite?
DA: It has definitely got to be my first one, I never knew what to expect.
LOB: Please help us out …Breakdown the word fashionista
DA: A fashionista is someone who sets trends, someone people emulate in the fashion world. Or someone who, even though they do not set trends, is fashionable in every sense.
LOB: How excited were you when you had your first “real” client?
DA: I was absolutely over the moon! To think someone was wearing my brand and thought my “creative me” was good enough for them had me overwhelmed.
LOB: Zimbabwean fashion : where are we on a regional scale and why?
DA: I think Zimbabwe fashion on a regional scale is definitely evolving we are making more of an effort to keep up with fashion trends. And a lot more people are taking fashion risks i.e fashion designers like myself ..lol
LOB: Where is your career going?
DA: I want to think; rather I pray that it takes me to higher heights.
LOB: What do you want to be remembered for?
DA: I want to be remembered for making a difference in any way possible be it the fashion industry or just generally, I’m working towards that as we speak.
LOB: What’s the worst experience you’ve ever had?
DA: I’ve had many ups and downs in life but all those experiences have made me who I am today, so I can’t really pin point my worst experience as it’s probably strengthened and carved out a better me.
LOB: The diplomat in me recognizes the diplomat in you! Lol!! Ok, You have numerous awards… tell us about receiving them and what went through your mind each time you were announced as the winner?
DA: Each time is a different feeling and thought process but most of the time I just look up to God and my mother in heaven and show incredible thanks as without them there would be no me or T.I.R Fashion House.
LOB: Dani, your skin is gorgeous! What are some of your favorite products to use and why?
DA: The body shop has to be my favorite brand! I have been using them for close to 10years now and will probably never change unless it’s that time in one’s life when we need to use preventive wrinkle creams lol.
LOB: What are some of the common fashion faux pars that just grind your gears?
DA: Aaarrggh….When people wear designer clothes and think that’s fashion.
LOB: If you could have anything at all in the world… What would it be?
DA: To say one last “I love you” to my mama in heaven.
LOB: Aww…you big teddy bear you…that’s too sweet! Ok, lets wrap it up now. Who are some of the people you have dressed and how did you feel about the process?
DA: Well, I have dressed a few celebrities in Zimbabwe at around about the same time; it was rather overwhelming watching them all fall in love with my pieces. Mrs Mzembi, Hazvinei Sakarombe just to name a few.
Its always fun getting to understand a person and what drives them. Thank you for allowing me to play in your head for a bit Danielle. And so,…. In the words of Bugs Bunny, that all folks ….. *bursts into giggles*
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