Alright, darlings, it’s a genuine pleasure to sit down with a true visionary in the African fashion landscape. Mariam Oizah Aliu, the brilliant mind behind Fashion Forward by Mimi, has become a truly recognisable name across the continent and beyond.

La Mode: Mariam, it’s a pleasure to have you with us. Fashion Forward by Mimi has become a recognizable name across the African fashion landscape and beyond. Tell us, what inspired the brand’s global expansion?

Mariam Oizah Aliu: Thank you. Fashion Forward by Mimi was always meant to be more than a label—it’s a movement, a mindset, and a story. The expansion into markets like Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, South Africa, and most recently Singapore, came from a deep desire to connect culture with couture. Each country represents a thread in a larger global tapestry, and our mission is to stitch these narratives together through design and collaboration.

La Mode: You’re currently stocked by some of the most iconic luxury boutiques on the continent—Fazal in Kenya, RJ4, Polo Avenue in Lagos, Alára, Zyne in Morocco, and The Space in South Africa. What does it mean to see your collections alongside such prestigious names?

Mariam: It’s incredibly humbling. Each of these retailers represents excellence, heritage, and a distinct fashion philosophy. Being stocked in their spaces means that Fashion Forward by Mimi has earned a seat at the table, not just in African fashion, but in the global luxury conversation. It’s also a testament to the fact that African designers are no longer emerging—we have arrived.

La Mode: There’s something distinctly elegant yet forward-thinking about your designs. How do you curate pieces that resonate across such diverse fashion capitals?

Mariam: I think the key lies in being rooted yet boundaryless. My team and I design with intentionality—each piece is made to be worn across borders, but still carry echoes of home. We draw inspiration from traditional craftsmanship, modern silhouettes, and global runway sensibilities. Whether it’s in Lagos or Singapore, our collections speak the universal language of confidence and grace.

La Mode: Looking ahead, what countries or markets are you eyeing next?

Mariam: We’re looking to expand into Dubai, Paris, and New York by next year. We’ve also begun discussions in Rwanda and Côte d’Ivoire. The goal isn’t just to enter markets but to build meaningful relationships with local fashion communities. We want to stock where the energy is aligned—where fashion is respected as art, culture, and business.

La Mode: What do you want the Fashion Forward woman to feel when she wears your pieces?

Mariam: Powerful, unapologetic, and seen. Whether she’s walking into a boardroom in Nairobi or attending a gala in Johannesburg, I want her to feel like her most authentic self—wrapped in elegance, but rooted in identity.

La Mode: Final question—what does “fashion forward” truly mean to you?

Mariam: To me, fashion forward means honoring the past, defining the now, and dressing for the future. It’s about movement—stylistically, culturally, and spiritually.

La Mode: Beautifully said. Thank you for your time, Mariam.

Mariam: Thank you for having me. It’s always an honor to share this journey with those who appreciate the layers behind the fabric.

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