Some have referred to Folashade “Shade” Thomas-Fahm as one of Africa’s most significant designers and a trailblazer in Nigerian fashion.
The renowned designer, who is currently 90 years old, is said to have been the first person with professional training in fashion design and to have owned Nigeria’s first store. The ‘Sisi Sewing Shop’, a local seamstress in Lagos, taught Thomas-Fahm how to sew when she was twelve years old, sparking her interest in fashion. Shade Thomas-Fahm had planned to study nursing in England in 1953, as was customary at the time.
She chose to pursue a profession in fashion instead after being enthralled with the West End fashion boutiques upon her arrival in England.
She rose to prominence as a result of her important contributions to the Nigerian fashion industry and her commitment to using her imaginative designs to promote Nigerian culture. The creative force behind the upscale clothing line “House of Teflon,” which openly displays the magnificent beauty of Nigerian textiles and the rich legacy of traditional workmanship, is Shade Thomas-Fahm. Her design concept creates unique, fashionable designs that honor the spirit of Nigerian culture by skillfully fusing modern aesthetics with traditional aspects.
For her outstanding work in the fashion sector, Shade Thomas-Fahm received considerable recognition both domestically and internationally during the course of her career. She took an active part in a number of fashion shows and events, greatly enhancing the reputation of Nigerian fashion internationally.
Born on September 22, 1933, in Bankole Ayorinde Thomas and Elizabeth Olaniwun Thomas’ home, Shade Thomas-Fahm was originally named Victoria Omọ́rọ́níkẹ Àdùkẹ́ Fọlashadé Thomas. However, she was more commonly called “Shadé Thomas” both informally and professionally. Her education was obtained at the Lagos-based St. Peter’s School, Faaji, Baptist Girls’ School Araromi, and subsequently New Era Girls’ College.