Award-winning creative, Fashion enthusiast & Style renovator.
By Uganze Chikezie
“Style is a tool, use it to express who you are before you even say a word.”– Nonye Udeogu
In this segment we are exploring fashion, focusing on helping women embrace intentional fashion not just for aesthetics, but for ease, confidence, and sustainability. Today, we’re thrilled to have Nonye Udeogu, an award-winning creative genius and fashion enthusiast known as Everything called Fashion. Her content and style philosophy perfectly embody our mission. We sat down with her to chat about minimalist wardrobes, closet revamps, sustainability, and her own evolving style.
Q: What inspired your shift towards a more intentional, minimalist wardrobe, and what does Closet Archeology mean to you?
Honestly, I wouldn’t say I intentionally planned the shift, my style really depends on the season I’m in. I dress based on how I feel each year. I might decide I want to be someone entirely different. I’m someone who gets bored easily, so my style changes often. It evolves depending on where I am, what I’m doing, and the kind of image I want to project.
But one thing that’s always consistent is that my look will always be classy, stylish, and tasteful, in my own way. Because at the end of the day, fashion is self-expression. I always tell people to express themselves through how they dress, based on how they want to be addressed and perceived.
This year, I’m leaning into minimalism, not because it’s trendy, but because I wanted to explore how it feels and just have fun with it. I never leave the house unless I feel like I look good. I’m intentional that way. Fashion should be fun!
Q: For someone overwhelmed by too many clothes but “nothing to wear,” how do they start rebuilding their wardrobe?
First step? Take out what you don’t need. If you’re overwhelmed by clothes but feel you have nothing to wear, start by decluttering. If you have a full closet but feel like there’s nothing to wear, it means you’re either bored or overdue for a wardrobe revamp. Clear out the things you haven’t worn in the last 3–6 months. Give them away, donate them, just let them go. That’s the starting point.
Next, create a mood board to visualize your desired style. It doesn’t have to be fancy, just screenshot a few outfits or style inspirations that speak to you. But remember to consider a few important things before doing this:
- What do you do for a living?
- What’s your daily lifestyle like?
- Where do you spend most of your time?
If you work in a corporate job, invest in more formal pieces. If you work from home, maybe loungewear makes more sense. A lot of times, we buy clothes for the wrong settings, then realize we have nothing for other occasions.
Also, understand your body type. It matters. Tailored pants, short skirts, or midi skirts, choose what flatters your frame. For example, I know I look better in A-line skirts than bodycon dresses. I’m curvy, like most African women, but I’m also in between sizes. So I’ve learned what works best for my frame. Once you’ve clarified your lifestyle and body type, shop strategically.
When you’re ready to shop, shop looks, not just individual pieces. Don’t just buy a top, think about what bottoms, jackets, or shoes will go with it. That way, you avoid clutter and build a functional wardrobe you can actually enjoy.
Q: What three pieces do you consider essential in a functional wardrobe, regardless of personal style?
Three essentials for any wardrobe are sunglasses, tailored pants or denim jeans, and a tank top. Sunglasses that suit your face frame elevate any outfit instantly. Tailored pants or jeans are versatile, working for casual or polished looks. A tank top is a foundation piece, pair it with high-waisted pants or jeans, add a jacket and sunglasses, and you’re stylish and ready to go. These pieces are timeless and adaptable, no matter your personal style.
Q: How do you balance personal style with practicality when creating a capsule wardrobe?
You need to match your personal style with your everyday life. That’s it. Balancing personal style with practicality comes down to aligning your wardrobe with your lifestyle.
For me, I’m a creative entrepreneur. I go to the office, but I don’t dress like a strict 9–5 banker. So I wear clothes that are expressive but still functional. I’ll buy tailored pants and jackets, but they’ll be unique, artsy, and creative, not the usual black-and-white formalwear.
Since I also work from home and attend shoots, I make sure I have plenty of lounge pieces and versatile looks that are stylish but comfy. Understanding what you do and where you go helps you shop smarter and build a practical, stylish wardrobe. If you’re home often, prioritize comfortable yet chic options. This approach ensures your wardrobe is both functional and a true reflection of your personal style.
Q: Is sustainable or mindful fashion achievable for everyday women on a budget?
Absolutely. Sustainable fashion doesn’t just mean expensive brands. It’s also about recycling fashion, and that includes thrift shopping or vintage finds.
You don’t have to go to Yaba market (though that’s fine too!). Many influencers host closet sales, or you can find great vintage items. It’s about finding quality pieces that can be styled in multiple ways.
If you want to invest in sustainable brands, go for items you can wear repeatedly, like a well-tailored pair of pants or a versatile dress. These pieces may cost more upfront, but their durability and versatility make them budget-friendly over time. Being intentional about thrifting and choosing multi-use items makes sustainable fashion accessible to everyone.
Q: Any advice for women who want to improve their wardrobe but don’t know where to start?
Picture how you want people to see and perceive you, then go for it. Start where you are with what you have. People think revamping your wardrobe is expensive, but it’s not. Use what you already have, and invest in just a few quality pieces that you can wear often. For example, I wear my tailored pants in so many different ways, so I make sure I buy quality ones that won’t fade or tear easily.
And don’t be afraid of thrift shopping! It’s not about the price tag, it’s about how you wear it. Confidence and intentionality are key to amplifying your wardrobe.
Question 7: As part of our women-focused magazine, we’d love a quote from you, something bold and inspiring.
“The beauty in fashion is being self expressive.“
~~ThisThingCalledFashion ~
Q: Anything exciting you’re working on that our readers should look out for?
Yes! I’m currently working on my YouTube show. I’ll be sharing more soon, and I’d love for you to watch, subscribe, like, and comment! I also have a community of women I’m helping with wardrobe and style makeovers.
I’ll share the link to the group, and I’d love to explore how RW Magazine can partner with this community for future collaborations.
