When it comes to contemporary haute couture in the African diaspora, few names resonate as strongly as Nigerian fashion designer, Ruth Erikan James, popularly known as Veekee James. Renowned for her self-titled fashion imprint, the trailblazer is notorious for showcasing exquisite red carpet designs that have become synonymous with elegance and afro-exuberance.
With each creation reflecting a unique blend of modern trends and timeless style, Veekee’s designs have become a coveted choice for fashion enthusiasts across the continent. Artistic beadings, modish illusions, and luxurious fabrics are some of the outstanding features portrayed by fashion connoisseur’s voguish gowns. Her avant-garde gowns have been donned by the who’s who of African entertainment at prestigious red carpet events, as well as A-list wedding ceremonies alike.
Below, see some of Veekee James’ most sensational designs donned by African celebrities.
Bonang Matheba
Veekee James’ designs recently came into the spotlight when Mzansi’s media darling, Bonang Matheba graced the Miss South Africa pageant finale stage in a breathtaking turquoise and emerald green gown from the fashion brand. The mermaid-core-inspired dress pristinely captured Queen B’s notoriously elegant red carpet aesthetic, while also exuding Veekee James’ artistic DNA.
Toke Makinwa
Media powerhouse Toke Makwina broke the internet when she stunned in an artsy 3D Veekee James ensemble for the annual ‘African Music Viewers Choice Awards’ (AMVCAs). The glitzy gown boasted a circular appliqué on the bust, showcasing Veekee’s unparalleled design prowess.
Chioma Ikokwu
Reality TV star Chioma Ikokwu made a grand entrance in a bespoke creation by Veekee James at the Real Housewives of Lagos Season 2 Premiere. Her ensemble featured a sheer top and a full-length cut-out design adorned with glistening diamanté diamonds that sparkled from the bodice to the dress’s flowing hem.
Uche Montana
Multimedia powerhouse Uche Montana graced the AMVCAs red carpet in a stunning crimson and gold ensemble from Veekee James. Her gown featured a long, flowing train complete with feathery trimmings. The dress masterfully manipulated the lace and sheer fabric to create circular shapes, as well as a heart shape at the top of the bodice.
Sonia Tucker
Giving us a haute couture Barbie-core moment, fashion model Sonia Tucker graced our Instagram feeds in a pink gown from Veekee James. Boasting a skin-tight bodice, an alluring slit, and a flowing train, the dress was the epitome of old Hollywood glamour.
Osas Ighodaro
Award-winning actress Osas Ighodaro looked like a dream at the AMVCAs when she graced the red carpet in a brown 3D mermaid gown that featured a striking hourglass silhouette and a fishtail hem.
Veekee James
The fashion icon looked stunning at the annual ‘Future Awards Africa’ in one of her own custom gowns. The artsy black and silver sequinned dress wasn’t only proof of Veekee’s masterly ability to craft timeless gowns, but also her incredible ability to style them effortlessly!
Sharon Ademefun
For her brother, Davido’s sensational wedding, media personality Sharon Ademefun was decked up in a gold-beaded dress from Veekee James. The outfit was heavily stoned from head to toe giving it a regal appearance.
Tomike Adeoye
Media personality Tomike Adeoye stunned a glamorous, yet sophisticated jumpsuit at the AMVCAs. The Veekee James design featured a white chic half blazer, as well as a bridal-esque train.
Bonang Matheba
Queen B looked like a dream when she hosted the prestigious 2023 Miss South Africa pageant in a pink custom Veekee James gown. The stunning dress boasted flower appliqués with sliver glitter making it edgy and avant-garde – a popular signature of Veekee’s designs.