Nigerian-born fashion designer, Duro Olowu, was enlisted by the First Lady of the United States Michelle Obama to decorate the White House in preparation for the 2015 Christmas celebrations.
“My idea is to create a beautiful feast for the eyes, reminiscent of a warm and joyful season, filled with international treasures and signature fabrics,” recounts Duro Olowu to the Vogue Magazine, describing the wonderful challenge of decorating the Vermeil Room of the White House for the holiday season.
Duro with three other designers Carolina Herrera, Humberto Leon, Carol Lim and Kenzo were brought in to decorate White House’s China Room, Vermeil Room and library for the holiday season.
White House’s theme this year is Timeless Traditions, the inspiration that lead designer Duro Olowu to create custom teddy bears using vintage African fabric in decorating the Vermeil Room.
Born to a Nigerian father and Jamaican mother, Duro was raised in Lagos, spending his childhood travelling between Nigeria and different cities in Europe. His wife, Thelma Golden, is the Director and Chief Curator of the Studio Museum in Harlem, New York.
