A few months ago, I was invited to an exclusive launch party, and the dress code was ‘rich aunty’. I do not dress like a rich aunty in boubous and flowing dresses. And as an advocate for sustainability, I refuse to buy an outfit for a single occasion. It’s just not my style. That was until I got these Lioness by TF pieces months later.
You know those cool rich aunties you knew as a child? The ones who seemed to be forever young, always on trend, never dressed down and who always came with presents for you? She’s who I aspire to be, and I’m well on the way with this Kimono and Jacket from Lioness by TF. And guess what? The styling options are unlimited.
My favourite pieces from Lioness by TF
When I was faced with the online catalogue, because this is not my usual style, I tried to play it safe by choosing a kimono piece and a monochrome jacket. I almost always wear neutrals, so I stuck to the plot. But when the pieces arrived, I instantly wished I had been a little more adventurous with my choices. They feel very good to the touch and the way the fabric is woven, its shine and shimmer catches the light so beautifully, in a way that photographs can barely capture.
The Champagne Sandstorm Kimono
This Kimono, as the name suggests, is the colour of expensive champagne and a beautiful dessert. The fabric alternates between dark and light to give the impression of a desert floor. Cut to a round silhouette, it can be styled open or closed to give that business casual look that every woman at the top looks for. Because of its shimmer, it is also perfect for evening events, yet its casual cut allows it to work for afternoon meetings or casual meetings and errands.
#StyleTip: You can style the Champagne Sandstorm Kimono from Lioness by TF with corporate pants and a round neck shirt for a corporate-casual look, or pair it with a bodysuit or body con dress for a more playful look. Heels, sneakers, and flats; they all work well with it.
The Monochrome Brocade Jacket
“I don’t think I’ve ever felt a zipper run that smooth in my life,” was the first thing I said when I tried this on. Such a small detail, but as a gym girlie, I wear clothes with zippers very often, and this one was like butter. This fabric made me feel like a walking 3D painting with the ridges all around it. It may be itchy to the touch because of the details, but it is with great relief and excitement that I announce to you that this is still one of the most comfortable jacket’s I own. It is lined with silk like the one used to line suits, and this makes it warm and cosy. I’ll be wearing this with high waist pants to capture that cinch in the waist.
#StyleTip: Switch out the highwaist pants with leggings for a laid back look. Try a more adventurous silhouette by layering with a turtleneck shirt underneath the Monochrome Jacket from Lioness by TF.
Lioness by TF: Beyond fashion
I was very curious about how these pieces were made and the inspiration behind these pieces. The acronym ‘TF’ comes from the creative designer, Tokunbo Fasoro whose roots in Nigeria and being born to a fashion designer mom inspired her creation of these pieces. Her designs are a combination of detailed fabric choices and modern silhouettes. Most of the catalogue is made with polyester, silk and metallic fibres. Now that explains the 3D visual and feel.
The pieces are produced in the UK where Lioness by TF is based, reducing carbon footprint and supporting local labour. These values endear them to fashion lovers all over, even earning them a feature on NYWeekly, and Women Herald among others. Overall, a spectacular – give me 14 of them – haul.
