2 days ago
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Tejumola Animashaun is the founder of Linen Vanille, a Lagos-based fashion brand that has carved a niche for itself by creating timeless, travel-friendly pieces for individuals leading active lifestyles.
Drawing inspiration from art, nature, and exploration, Linen Vanille’s designs blend comfort with practicality, offering versatile staples that transcend seasonal trends. At the heart of the brand lies a commitment to sustainability, ethical production, and intentional design.
Animashaun’s journey in fashion spans over seven years, during which she has worn many hats—salesperson, fashion illustrator, consultant, and bespoke tailor. These experiences have not only honed her technical skills but also deepened her understanding of the human side of fashion. “Linen Vanille is a piece of my heart,” she says. Her love for travel has significantly influenced the brand’s design philosophy, encouraging her to create slowly and with intention. Every colour, fit, and detail in Linen Vanille’s collections reflects the beauty she observes in the world around her, making the designs deeply personal and authentic.
Sustainability is a cornerstone of Linen Vanille’s ethos. The brand uses natural fabrics such as linen, cotton, and blends, alongside deadstock materials, to reduce waste and promote conscious fashion. However, maintaining ethical production in Nigeria comes with its challenges. Sourcing high-quality natural fibres and deadstock materials can be a time-consuming process, often resembling a treasure hunt. Additionally, ensuring fair wages for skilled tailors and minimising waste while keeping prices accessible to customers requires a delicate balance. Despite these hurdles, Animashaun remains steadfast in her commitment to ethical practices.
Linen, a lightweight and breathable fabric, is central to Linen Vanille’s collections. Its durability and classic appeal make it ideal for everyday wear. The brand’s designs focus on soft silhouettes and neutral tones, ensuring versatility and ease of incorporation into any wardrobe. A standout piece from the collection is the Beige Palmarejo Pants, which strike a balance between structure and ease. Made from linen, these trousers are breathable and durable, making them suitable for warm climates and various settings. The design prioritises ease of movement while maintaining a polished look, embodying the brand’s emphasis on functionality and wearability.
Cultural influences play a subtle yet significant role in Linen Vanille’s designs. Animashaun incorporates elements of Nigerian and African heritage in thoughtful ways. The easy, caftan-like cuts of tunics, embroidery motifs on shirts and trousers, and the use of cowrie accessories are nods to her roots. Even the names of the pieces reflect this cultural connection, adding a layer of storytelling to the brand’s identity.
Looking ahead, Animashaun envisions Linen Vanille growing steadily and thoughtfully over the next five years. Her goal is to continue creating beautiful, well-designed pieces while building a community that values simplicity and quality. She hopes to expand the brand’s reach beyond Nigeria, making Linen Vanille a globally recognised name. “The vision is to create a space where people feel at home,” she says. “Wherever you are in the world, you should know Linen Vanille when you see it—and more importantly, feel it.”
Linen Vanille stands out in the fashion industry for its commitment to authenticity and longevity. By prioritising timeless designs over fleeting trends, the brand appeals to individuals who seek well-crafted, versatile clothing. For those looking to build a wardrobe that combines style, comfort, and sustainability, Linen Vanille is a name to remember.
Through her dedication to intentional design and ethical practices, Tejumola Animashaun is not just building a brand—she is crafting a legacy. Linen Vanille is more than fashion; it is a reflection of her values, her journey, and her vision for a more conscious and connected world.
English (US) ·