Nolly Babes Salutes The Divas of Nigerian Film
Sisters Tochi and Ebele are part of a burgeoning online community of curators recollecting hallmark moments of African culture. With their instagram account Nolly.Babes, the duo flash back to the melodramatic personalities of Nigeria’s Golden Era of film and the ostentatious style that made them unforgettable. While the moodboard worthy ‘fit shots and entertaining soundbites are quality content in their own right, they also serve as a reflection on feminism, beauty standards, and sexuality and various other prominent social themes .
1. Describe Nolly.babes in 3 words.
Black, Feminist & Nigerian.
2. What inspired you to create Nolly.babes?
Nostalgia, our love of nollywood movies and the beautiful women that make them what they are.
3. What are the qualities of a true Nolly Babe?
A Nolly Babe has two components - style and attitude. A Nolly Babe is always the best dressed woman in the room. From her hair to her accessories, her style is uniquely hers and she sets trends and doesn't follow them. Nolly Babes are feminists, always standing up for what they want and deserve. They don't settle or conform to societal standards.
4. Your content has appealed to audiences who may have not grown up on Nollywood films or understand the nuances of the culture. Why do you think that is?
We share images that universally resonate with people because they refer back to a period that we all experienced growing up, as well as the styles and trends that were popular during that time.
5. What are three of your favorite Nolly Babe fashion moments?
6. What are a few of your favorite accounts to follow?
@Nigeriangothic, @Silentnoiseeee, @Nigerianvideos, and @Yogi.tochi