SPOTLIGHT: Eric Ihaza — the gifted stylist redefining Nollywood beauty

Eric Ihaza is a talented wardrobe stylist and costume designer based in Lagos. He has created appearances for movies such as ‘Gangs of Lagos,’ ‘The Smart Money Woman,’ and ‘3 Cold Dishes’. In this interview with TheCable Lifestyle’s VICTORY ORIMEMI, Ihaza shares his remarkable journey into the world of wardrobe styling, his support for emerging creatives in the industry, and his plans to expand his brand globally.

TheCable Lifestyle: You studied Agric-economics in university, what inspired you to pursue a career as a wardrobe stylist instead?

Eric Ihaza: Throughout my undergraduate days, I discovered a deep passion for fashion. I found immense joy in helping others look their best and took it upon myself to share my fashion expertise with over 500 individuals through regular broadcast messages on WhatsApp. Twice a week, I provided my fellow Agric-economics students with valuable fashion tips and guidance.

At that time, I even dabbled into wardrobe styling. Little did I know that it could be a viable career option; my exposure to the industry was limited, and I simply pursued my passion without considering it as a profession. I just loved dressing people up.

Upon graduating, I unexpectedly found myself immersed in the world of wardrobe styling and realised that people were actually forging successful careers in this field. It was a revelation that sparked a newfound curiosity within me. In addition to my other talents, such as singing and excelling in academics, wardrobe styling emerged as a profession I had never previously contemplated.

TheCable Lifestyle: How has your experience working on various production sets influenced your approach to styling and costume design?

Eric Ihaza: My journey working on various production sets has been an invaluable source of knowledge and growth. Experience truly is the best teacher, and the lessons I’ve learned have profoundly influenced my approach to styling and costume design.

Through the multitude of projects I’ve been involved in, styling has become second nature to me. The continuous exposure to different sets and productions has honed my skills and expanded my expertise. Styling has transitioned from being a sporadic endeavour to a consistent and ongoing process in my professional life. This constant engagement has allowed me to become more adept at what I do.

One significant benefit of this experience is the ability to avoid rookie mistakes. Mistakes are an inevitable part of any learning process, but with the wisdom gained from working on various sets, I’ve developed a keen eye for potential pitfalls. Now, when faced with challenges or unexpected situations, I can rely on my experience to swiftly devise alternative solutions. This level of preparedness and adaptability is a stark contrast to my earlier days as a novice.

Engaging with different production sets has also provided me with a profound sense of versatility. Every project brings unique requirements and demands, and I’ve learned to approach each one with a fresh perspective. This adaptability has made my work more efficient and effective. Drawing from the lessons of past experiences, I can tailor my styling and costume design to suit the specific needs of each production, ensuring a seamless and cohesive outcome.  I am deeply grateful for the opportunities to learn and grow, as they have undoubtedly made my work easier and more fulfilling.

TheCable Lifestyle: As a wardrobe stylist, what have you found most rewarding about your job?

Eric Ihaza: Basically, putting smiles on the faces of our clients. There is nothing quite as fulfilling as seeing the smiles on their faces.  I think it is the most rewarding thing about my job. When I’m on set, one question always lingers in my mind: is my director happy? It goes beyond just fulfilling a task; it’s about ensuring the client’s utmost satisfaction. So, when everyone involved, from the director to the producer and actors, is pleased with my work, it fills me with pure joy.

Witnessing the impact of my creations on the big screen, be it in cinemas, on streaming platforms like Amazon Prime and Netflix, or even on billboards and TV ads, is an incredibly gratifying experience. It’s a soothing feeling to reflect and say, I played a part in this. To see people embrace and love my work is truly rewarding.

TheCable Lifestyle: Have you ever encountered a situation in your career where you felt that your contributions were not adequately recognized and how did you handle the situation?

Eric Ihaza: In my career, I have always strived to give my best in every production I have been a part of. I believe that my dedication and passion for my work have been key factors in my professional growth. When it comes to handling situations where my contributions may not have been adequately recognized, I approach them with a proactive mindset.

One aspect of my approach is ensuring that I consistently put in my best effort, regardless of the project’s scale. Whether it’s a smaller project or a larger one, I maintain the same level of enthusiasm and commitment. This mindset helps me maintain a sense of fulfilment in my work, knowing that I have given my all to each production.

However, I have heard of situations from colleagues where their hard work and contributions were not appropriately acknowledged. For instance, some crew members were not invited to the premiere of a particular project despite their significant efforts in making it successful. This can understandably be disheartening for individuals who have invested their time and energy into a project. I believe producers should strive to do better in recognizing the entire team’s contributions.

While recognition is important, I firmly believe that true fulfilment comes from knowing that you have played a vital role in creating something impactful, regardless of external validation.

TheCable Lifestyle: What are some of the biggest challenges you face in your line of work, and how do you overcome them?

Eric Ihaza: I have always embraced a philosophy that encourages me to view challenges as opportunities for growth and development. This mindset has been ingrained in me since my childhood, and I firmly believe that no matter the challenge, there are always alternative solutions to explore. As a wardrobe stylist, I encounter a few significant challenges in my line of work that I strive to overcome.

One of the challenges I face relates to sizing discrepancies. Occasionally, actors may provide sizing information that differs from what I have measured. This can pose difficulties when it comes to procuring the appropriate garments. Additionally, fittings can present their own set of challenges. After meticulously planning and executing the fitting process, unforeseen circumstances may arise, causing a director to change their mind about certain elements, such as color choices.

Another challenge I encounter is time constraints. While other departments on production sets often have well-defined schedules, the wardrobe team frequently operates within tight timelines. This can be disheartening because it sometimes feels as though the significance of the wardrobe team is underestimated. Nevertheless, as a dedicated professional, I consistently prioritise punctuality and strive to deliver exceptional results within the given time frame.

TheCable Lifestyle: Do you think there is enough support for emerging creatives in the industry, and if not, what changes do you suggest?

Eric Ihaza: I would like to think that there is. I kick-started my career by volunteering at the Lagos Theater Festival at Freedom Park, Lagos Island in 2019. Volunteering can be an excellent way for emerging creatives to gain practical experience and network within the industry. There are lots of volunteering jobs out there, but I have observed that many people are hesitant to take on such roles.

Some people may express an interest in volunteering but are unwilling to put in the necessary work and effort to learn and grow.

I am always skeptical about bringing greenhorns into my team because many are not ready to learn, and many of them are not ready to start small.

My advice would be to start small, if there’s an event happening, just volunteer. Opportunities like dream stores, pop-up fashion shows, and other similar occasions serve as ideal avenues for beginners to gain experience through volunteering.

Another option for those starting out is to consider internships. You might not get paid but you’ll have the opportunity to grow and improve your skill.

While efforts can be made to improve the support system for emerging creatives in the industry, I feel we could actually still do more on our own part. Even if you are scared, take risks, and put yourself and your craft out there, especially at the early stages of your career.

TheCable Lifestyle: Can you describe your experience working on ‘Gangs of Lagos’, and how did your role on the project differ from your previous work on ‘Smart Money Woman’?

Eric Ihaza: Working on ‘Gangs of Lagos’ was an incredibly demanding experience. We had overnight shoots with minimal sleep, long hours on set, and the constant need to reset costumes due to blood stains. It was essential to have multiple outfits of the same costume to ensure continuity and to handle the washing and drying process efficiently. Also, we had to carefully coordinate the costumes and accessories for the extras involved in fight scenes, ensuring they matched the main actors’ outfits and safeguarding special items like the Oba neckpiece. It was a challenging task to manage these elements effectively and make sure nothing went missing.

Shooting in Isaleko was crazy because Isaleko is not somewhere you just go and shoot scenes. The long working hours, consecutive overnight shoots, lack of sleep, and the constant focus on costumes, including specific night pieces and socks for continuity, added to the complexity. Resetting outfits for both extras and major actors proved to be a significant challenge, particularly given that the fighting scenes were shot within a single day. It was a lot but we were able to make it work and I’m grateful for the reception it has received so far.

In contrast, my involvement in ‘Smart Woman Money’ was initially as an intern in the wardrobe department. It was my first time being on a big set and I faced some initial struggles in finding my footing. However, I gradually rose to the role of a fashion assistant. When it came to the second season, ‘Smart Woman Money 2,’ I joined the set as a wardrobe coordinator and stylist. The experiences and lessons I gained from working on the first season proved invaluable in my role during the second season.

While ‘Smart Woman Money 1’ had its own share of stress, it did not compare to the mental and physical demands of ‘Gangs of Lagos.’ Prior experience on other projects proved beneficial, as it provided me with the necessary skills and resilience to handle the challenging workload. Despite the considerable pressure, I was determined to see the project through until the end, even as many others left the set due to its magnitude.

TheCable Lifestyle: How do you approach styling for different types of clients?

Eric Ihaza: I usually adopt a tailored approach that aligns with the specific project and the client’s vision. For instance, in the context of movies, I begin by thoroughly reading the script and conducting a character breakdown. I engage in ongoing discussions with the director or producer to understand their requirements and preferences. In some cases, the director may have a clear vision for a character’s appearance and would seek my input. At such times, I offer my suggestions while ensuring that they align with the director’s vision.

On the other hand, when working with musicians, the styling process is often driven by the director’s desired mood or atmosphere for the shoot. As a stylist, it becomes crucial for me to understand and capture the intended feel, that the director communicates to me. While movie projects involve more costume design, in the case of musicians, the focus lies in creating a visually appealing look that reflects their brand image. Therefore, I work closely with musicians to ensure their personal style and brand aesthetic are incorporated seamlessly.

TheCable Lifestyle: Are there any celebrities or personalities you haven’t worked with yet that you would like to in the future?

Eric Ihaza: Absolutely! There are countless celebrities and personalities I would be thrilled to work with in the future. Some of the top names on my wishlist include A-list artists like Davido, Wizkid, Burna Boy, Tiwa Savage, and Tuface. Being a music lover myself, I have already had the opportunity to style Seyi Shay, who was a judge on Nigerian Idol. I would love to take on the challenge of styling the entire music competition, such as The Voice Nigeria or Nigerian Idol. It would be an incredible experience to curate the looks for not only the judges but also the talented contestants vying for stardom. I’m not limiting myself to just celebrities but also politicians, and not just in Nigeria alone, but worldwide.

TheCable Lifestyle: What sources do you draw inspiration from when creating looks for your clients?

Eric Ihaza: I draw inspiration from a variety of sources, including fashion magazines and social media platforms. I often come across captivating looks on social media and feel inspired to experiment with them on my clients, adapting and customising them to suit their individual preferences and needs.

Another significant source of inspiration for me is the client themselves. Each person possesses a unique personality, and their distinct qualities and characteristics often inspire me to create a styling concept that reflects their individuality. I will also attribute my creativity and ideas to God. I firmly believe that all inspirations ultimately come from Him.

TheCable Lifestyle: What are your plans for the future as a wardrobe stylist, and how do you intend to grow and expand your brand?

Eric Ihaza: My plans involve building and expanding the Eric Ihaza and Ricky Xtopha brand, which has already gained recognition and established a solid foundation. My primary goal is to take the brand to a global level by venturing into various regions including East Africa, West Africa, Europe, North America, and Australia. I aim to establish a strong presence in these markets by creating partnerships, collaborating with local designers and boutiques, and showcasing our unique clothing line.

Currently, I am working on an exciting project that involves traveling to different African countries such as Benin, Togo, Ghana, and Abidjan. It’s a thrilling opportunity that enables me to explore the fashion scenes in these countries and establish connections with local influencers, stylists, and fashion enthusiasts.

In addition to growing my clothing brand, I am also passionate about coaching and mentoring aspiring wardrobe stylists through coaching sessions and workshops. I believe in giving back to the community and empowering others to pursue their dreams. I aspire to be a role model and inspire generations of fashion professionals.

TheCable Lifestyle: What advice would you give to someone who is interested in pursuing a career in styling?

Eric Ihaza: Passion is key. Make sure you have a deep passion for what you’re pursuing. It’s important to be persistent and consistent in your efforts. Additionally, incorporating faith in God can provide guidance and strength in everything you do. Remember, this journey won’t be easy, so be prepared to work tirelessly and around the clock. Have unwavering faith in yourself and believe that you are capable of achieving your goals. Don’t let your current circumstances, family, or relationships hold you back. If others have succeeded, why can’t you?

Embrace a growth mindset and affirm that you are not limited by your environment. Love what you do, as genuine enthusiasm will drive your success. Lastly, actively network and connect with the right people who can support and inspire you along the way.