If you’ve seen your favourite artiste in an outfit that instantly had you double-tapping your screens, chances are they were styled by fashion designer Shamara “Shampagnex” Sahadeo. We caught up with the talented celebrity stylist and Creative Director to learn about her growth in the industry.

Getting into personal styling

The talented designer noted that her introduction to personal styling grew from her brand SEORA Clothing, which she created while in high school. Her creative talents gradually gained attention from celebrities after being impressed by pieces posted to her social media, who then started to enquire about styling.

Who have you styled over the years?

Names such as Protoje, Skillibeng, Sean Paul, Kabaka Pyramid, and Valiant are among the stars that have enlisted and received the creative vision of the Shampagnex’s.

Notable sets you’ve designed or worked on?

Among artistes video sets she has helped craft looks include Roze Don, Romain Virgo, and Jahshii.

In addition to executing spectacular designs for the local stars, the talented creative director has also been involved in the set up of international projects such as Clarks and Skillibeng during his record label signing reveal.

Describe your creative process.

The top designer notes that her concepts are typically guided by three main categories- Stage Wardrobe, Music Videos and Appearances.

Creative range in putting together a set or design

Shampagnex has developed a level of trust among her clients who have in most cases allowed her creative freedom to execute with minimal prompting based on the ideas.

How did you get your name?

“My friend gave me the name in high school because even now, a lot of people would call me some variation of ‘Sham’ because my name is Shamara,” she joked. “People just used to call me “Champaign”, and it kinda stuck.”

“in terms of The ‘x,’ my favourite number is eight because of the perfection of it. If you slice it on either side, it remains even. [However] I felt I needed to use another letter, ‘X’ has the same synergy as eight.”

Your personal style?

Despite having an eye for creative flair, Sahadeo describes her ‘personal style’ as comfortable, “cool kid, urban streetwear.”

The most standout outfit you’ve put together for an artiste?

“I Would have to say Kabka[Pyramid] for the Grammy’s and Jesse Royal for Lost in Times Festival,” she quipped.

3 tips to improve one’s personal style?

“Invest in very high-quality basic pieces and high-quality statement pieces. Of course, you’ll have to think about yourself too, because you don’t want to feel like you’re wearing a costume. When you start basic you can build on that and improve.”

“If you find a certain aesthetic that you like and see people in, you can pull inspiration from that and add your own unique touch. “Thirdly don’t be afraid to experiment.”

Persons you would want to work with in Future

Sahadeo, also shared that Burna Boy, Ariana Grande and Vicotria Monét are among the personalities she would like to work with in the future.