Let’s talk about a young queen doing the most in fashion — Nicole Tikolo.
Now, if you haven’t heard the name yet, don’t worry. You’re about to see it everywhere.
Nicole is a Kenyan fashion design student at Nottingham Trent University, and guess what? Sis just got nominated as a finalist at the 2025 Fashanne Awards in the UK. Not some random local show — we’re talking major, international fashion recognition.
And the best part? She’s repping Kenya loud and proud.
Her collection is called “Urembo wa Pwani”, which translates to The Beauty of the Coast. And honestly, that title alone had me imagining sandy beaches, coconut trees, and all that effortless Swahili glam.
Nicole’s work pulls from her Taita roots and the magical vibes of coastal towns like Lamu and Diani. We’re talking mad creativity — with prints of madafu (young coconuts) and the Taita White Eye bird. Yes, she went deep. This isn’t just pretty clothes. It’s storytelling.
But here’s what really made me fall in love with her vision: body-inclusive silhouettes.
She said it loud — she’s designing for curvy women. And you know what? That’s revolutionary in an industry that still sometimes acts like size 10 is “plus.”
Nicole is blending heritage, nature, and modern tailoring — all while giving every body type a moment to shine.
And get this — you and I can actually help her win the People’s Choice Award. All we have to do is vote for her collection (Entry #62) on the Fashanne platform.
She’s calling on Kenyans, East Africans, and everyone in the diaspora to show up and support.
I don’t know about you, but I’ve already voted. Twice. Okay, maybe three times.
Because when one of us wins, we all win. And Nicole isn’t just creating fashion. She’s pushing culture forward — our culture.
She’s following the footsteps of icons like Andrea Iyamah and Banke Kuku. But you can tell she’s carving her own lane. Her designs? Soft but bold. Familiar but fresh.
I remember being a fashion student myself, juggling assignments and dreams. Nicole is out here living it — on a global stage. That’s not just talent. That’s power.
So yeah, let’s gas her up. Let’s make sure the UK — and the whole world — sees the beauty of the coast, the strength of African design, and the future of fashion in full color.
🗳️ Vote Entry #62. Do it for the culture. Do it for the coast. Do it for Nicole.
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