As an undergraduate, Omolola Shonowo known as Lolar Shon participated in many beauty pageants and won several of them amongst which is Miss Spotless LASU tops. She is a wife, a mother, a happy lady who loves life, an entrepreneur, a publisher and a makeup artiste; she’s indeed a ‘multi-socket’ plug.
She launched the first ever Fashion show in Nigeria some years back; Fashion Fusion, and at the maiden edition all the runway models on parade were people living with HIV/AIDS; they were celebrated without stigmatization. She however didn’t stop at that. Fashion Fusion V was also a huge success with a mass turnout of the crème de la crème of Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
She is currently the publisher of Lolar Shon Fashion Catalogue, CEO Lolar Shon Fashion Store, and Celebrity fashion blogger.
Being a wife, a mother and a showbiz personality, how do you manage all of these demanding roles?
It not been easy but I try my best to get a balance, I my duties as a wife, mother and also perform well in showbiz.
How did you journey into showbiz?
I started in 2000, after I won the Miss Lekki Beach pageant; I presented the DTD Jam Show. After which I dabbled into dancing and later makeup. In 2006 I had the first ever make over show in Nigeria where I use people living with HIV/AIDS as models. I started my fashion catalogue in 2010 and we are in its 5th edition and 10th edition of the Fashion Fusion.
What were your challenges as a starter?
Starting was quite tedious because of my age and the industry was fast growing, but to God be the glory here I am today going and still counting.
As a makeup artiste, can you list some of the people you have beautified?
I have done make up for the likes of Denrele Edun, Charly Boy, Lady Diane, Sunny Nneji, Face, Felix Duke, 2Shot, Michael Power, Keith Richards to mention just a few. Not to even forget late Goldie.
As an undergraduate at LASU you won some modeling contests, yet you don’t see yourself as a model, so how would you describe Lolar Shon?
Firstly, I would love to say that Lola Shon is coin-name from my name and surname; Omolola Shonowo. I won Miss Spotless LASU in 2000 and the1st runner up Miss Theatre, but that was then. I am just a happy lady who loves life. I am just a mother, wife, an entrepreneur, I own a fashion store, publishes Fashion Catalogue and I am also into makeup.
You started Fashion Fusion some years back, what was its driving force, and what should we expect next?
Fashion Fusion started in 2006 with the help of Azeezat who motivated and encouraged me. It’s a concert and we are here for the 10th edition, which will guarantee is going to be lots of music, comedies and creative designs on display with the rebirth of myself named Fashion Catalogue Lola Shon.
What was growing like for you, relating it with how it has influenced what you do?
Growing up was fun, I am from a Christian home. I have amazing brothers and sisters. And I have a strong feeling that my interest in Fashion and Showbiz is as a result of the warmth and love I enjoyed growing up with my wonderful folks.
As a fashionista, what inspires your designs?
My environment, people around me and objects, all of these inspires my frame of mind and invariably my designs.
What prompt your publishing of a fashion catalogue?
I decided to start the fashion catalogue to document my designs and works. We use top Nigerian models to showcase our various collections every season.
How has the experience being?
It’s been quite interesting though cumbersome and tasking. But the acceptability has kept me going. We sell the catalogue world over. From top shops in Lagos, Accra, London to Dubai.
What are your future plans for expansion as a brand?
I am looking forwards to a bigger fashion store and also fashion programme.
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