Issue link: https://www.balharbourdigital.com/i/1536166
I M AG E S C O U R T E S Y O F B R A N D S How do you describe your own style? Quirky. It's a combination of a lot of different things. I go for comfort, and I love quality, so it's not about a lot of items, but well-chosen ones. What's your summertime style? I'm drawn to tie-dyed fabrics, because it's something I'd see in Lagos markets: women folding, twisting, and crumpling fabric in various patterns. Long maxi-style dresses are essential for my Afro-chic look. And I am a huge Zimmermann and Ermanno Scervino fan. The former is my go-to for swimwear, and the latter for dresses. And Aquazzura slides are a must for the summer; you can dress them up or down as you like, and they're easy to pack. How has Italy influenced your aesthetic? I've always had an Afro-boho style, but Italy has reinforced that, saying Be yourself: This is who you are, regardless of what part of the world you might be in. Stay authentic to who you are. As a jeweler, what advice would you give anyone about choosing the perfect piece? Your jeweler should be able to tell you what gold they've used, and how it was sourced; it has to be ethically mined and benefit the communities it comes from. If you buy a piece of jewelry, and know the gold comes from Ghana, it gives you a connection to the country. Know where your jewels come from, too, because the information is available now; it's what we're shining a light on, continuously. Talk to me about your travel routines—and what you like to bring with you. I arrive at the airport with thrilling precision… just as the clock inches toward the last moments of check in. I love a window seat; the chance to see the world from a different perspective soothes me. A cashmere throw is a pretty nice way to stay snug, and for luggage, I love the Gucci Porter. The almost industrial look of the case is striking, and the leather, in contrast, adds warmth and richness. Your favorite décor item to make a place feel like home? I love blankets. It's a comfort thing again. We seek things that give us that sense of ease. What do you always pack for every trip? Pajamas. I go a bit crazy with them. When you wake up in the morning at the house in Puglia and go to the kitchen to see what the chef is doing—if you're in pajamas, you feel absolutely fabulous, without any pressure to do anything. They are relaxation in an outfit. Professional Opinion The magpie-like West is a globetrotting creative who draws eclectic inspiration from the many cultures she knows so intimately. What's your accessories philosophy—what key pieces do you always depend on? I love a good belt. It can be the ultimate style piece to complete an outfit. I use belts to add either structure or playfulness depending on my mood. And I love sneakers; they're easy, comfortable, and cool. Where are you planning to go next? I would love to explore Greece, because I haven't yet: probably island-hopping, traveling from cove to cove; Santorini is a popular trip by boat from Puglia. And I have this crazy dream of driving from the East to the West Coasts of America with the family, via New Orleans and Texas. What's in your Little Black Book for Puglia? Puglia invites you to explore and rewards the explorer. I love secluded swimming spots more than a traditional beach setting—for example, Cala Verde has this dreamy cove. And we go for sunrise swims early in the morning at Cala dell'Acquaviva; it's a cove with springs in it, so at first you're swimming in cold water, and all of a sudden, there's a pool of warmth and you can think I'll stay here for a bit. What are some of the best dining options in the region? Goodo Ristorante in Locorotondo is modern and stylish, plus they get extra points for carrying our rosé. In Putignano, there's a Michelin-starred restaurant, Angelo Sabatelli, that's just five minutes from the house. Gaonas Officine del Gusto in Martina Franca blows me away each time with its combination of flavors and flair. You're originally from Nigeria, which isn't on most luxury travelers' radar. Tell us what makes it such a magical place. Lagos is a business destination, rather than a tourist one, but we're trying to change that. The nightlife is so vibrant there: if you go to Victoria Island, any time past 10 p.m., you see all the lights and cars. People go club- hopping, three clubs in one night. We are party people. What else should visitors to Nigeria know? The markets are enchanting, an experience all their own: the colors, the spices, the textiles, fruit stacked high in an impossible way. I was born in Nigeria and lived there for almost 17 years, but I am not a great haggler—even after 20 years in diamond dealing. How do you relax in your homes? With a candle lit, I can sit and flick through book after book for hours, getting lost in that world. I shelve books by color but stack them on the table by size. I cannot resist a good coffee table book! Bottega Veneta Mini Loop metal Knots bag. Brunello Cucinelli cashmere travel throw Assouline "African Arts: The Impossible Collection" Diptyque Feu de Bois candle Santa Maria Novella Rosa Gardenia eau de cologne Richard Mille RM88 automatic winding tourbillon Smiley watch Golden Goose Stardan LTD sneakers Ferragamo Extendable Hug belt Aquazzura Divine slides Gucci Porter cabin plus trolley Zimmermann Rhiannon bikini Ermanno Scervino silk crepon dress