Born into the prominent Shagaya family , Chalya aka The Chal has since made a name for herself outside the family. An ex model , fashion consultant, PR expert, certified chef, photographer, oil businesswoman and up until last year, a public servant (she’s had her fingers deeply inserted into a number of pies .During her active years in the global fashion space , she has been built a strong network of African designers, socialites and fashionistas . Her foray into the fashion and entertainment industry, consulting with for the likes of Dakova. At some point she joined Nduka Obaigbena of This Day when he just started the This Day fashion weekend .
Generally tagged as a socialite , Chalya would rather be referred to as an introvert stemmed from her non-conformist way she dresses and the way she looked and behaved, she simply was not the regular type . Her style attracted the paparazzi and in no time she became a favourite . Her biggest influences being Isabella Blow , Audrey Hepburn, and Cicely Tyson, Chalya seems to have a bad hair day . According to Chalya in an interview …..” I don’t know because sometimes I leave my house thinking I look mad and I don’t care because that’s just me. I’m not a conformist. I’m non-conventional…..”
Having international fashion greats like -Ugo Mozie who was her assistant on one of her projects, today Ugo is a designer styling big artists Justin Bieber and the likes. While some of her clients in the past have been – Deola Sagoe, Korto Momolu, Chalya has also styled entertainment stars such as Kelis and Kelly Rowland soon after that.
Well known for her fashion high notes , Chalya’s daily wardrobe is a reflection of her transcontinental lifestyle. Exciting and vibrant prints, suggestive of African textiles, bold accessories and pops of color are closet staples in her wardrobe. Her day-to-day outfits are equal parts comfortable and chic. One would think turning 50 would slow down or change her style game so when asked how turning 50 made her feel, Chalya simply said …” Like I always feel. AMAZING“…..
So its safe to say that we are yet to see the best of her voguish style? ( which she never seems to have a bad day ) . How does she literally seem to get it right all the time ? Chalya had this to say ….“Know your body, Know what suits you , know your type, know your style. Anybody can be fashionable; you can carry the latest fashion or latest trend. If you don’t know your style, you are lost completely….”
