Toyin Ajoke Muyinat Lawani-Adebayo, Popularly known as Toyin Lawani, is a prominent Nigerian fashion designer, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, renowned for her innovative designs and significant contributions to the fashion industry. Born on March 1, 1982, in Ekiti State, Nigeria, she has built a multifaceted career that spans fashion design, beauty services, and reality television show.
Lawani studied at the University of Lagos, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in English. Driven by her passion for fashion and beauty, she furthered her education at institutions such as the Oprah Benson Beauty Institute in Nigeria, the Carlton Beauty Institute in London, and John Yim Beauty School in Korea, where she obtained her licenses in cosmetology.
She is the founder and CEO of Tiannah’s Place Empire, a corporation encompassing over 30 businesses, including a fashion academy, beauty salon, boutique, spa, and many more. Her versatility and creativity have established her as a leading figure in Nigeria’s fashion scene. She has styled numerous celebrities, both locally and internationally, such as keri Hilson, Tiwa Savage, Wizkid and Funke Akindele. She also served as a costume designer for the movie; “King of Boys: The Return of the King” and “Shanty Town”.
Lawani first rose to prominence after showcasing her clothing collections at Africa Fashion Week London in 2013. She subsequently showcased her collections at Africa Fashion Week Nigeria and was featured as a judge on the Nigeria’s Next Top Designer reality television series. She also serves as a Youth Ambassador for the Fashion Designers Association of Nigeria (FADAN).
In addition to her fashion endeavors, Lawani has appeared on reality television. She starred in “Tiannah’s Empire,” a reality show produced by EbonyLife Studio that delved into her personal and professional life. She also featured in “The Real Housewives of Lagos,” which premiered on Showmax in 2022.
Every year, she easily displays beautiful works of Art made from everyday items, such as silverware, paper bags, snails, plastic cups, and chickens.
Toyin Lawani’s dynamic career and unwavering commitment to innovation have solidified her status as a Forerunner in the fashion industry. Her ability to blend creativity with entrepreneurship continues to inspire many within and beyond Nigeria.