MEET ARIANA
Growing up, Abiosola Latzel struggled to find bras that fit and were comfortable. She was ‘that girl’ wearing a bra in JSS1. She was very athletic, loved to run but stopped because her boobs got in the way. So she developed a love-hate relationship with her body. After she had her daughter her body went through another big change, and again she couldn’t find bras that fit and were stylish.
This time she decided to do something about it and created her own brand.
Abisola launched Trouvai to empower women to feel confident and comfortable in their everyday lives by providing them, with lingerie that fits perfectly and looks fabulous. She wants the modern African woman to love herself and embrace her body, flaws and all.
Most recently, In December 2018 she launched a campaign, ‘More than you see’ to celebrate African women in all fields, letting them and others understand the worth of a woman and how powerful they are.
Trouvai designs unique pieces as well as manufactures and curates lingerie, swimwear and nightwear focusing on full bust sizes.
What is that one feeling that you want to create when people use your product or services? Describe a moment when you achieved that goal.
I want women to put on a Trouvai Bra or swimwear and go ‘Wow! I feel supported, I look sexy and I am comfortable’.
Once I had a customer send us a direct message to say thank you. She hadn’t been able to find swimwear that fits her size since she had kids and was very self-conscious about her body at the beach or pool. She got one of our one-piece swimwear and a beach cover-up and tagged us in pictures with her and her kids on the beach. This made me so happy.
How can a customer identify a good lifestyle brand? What values hold the key?
For me a good lifestyle brand is one that understands her customer values, lifestyle and culture. And is able to cater to those needs. A brand that inspires by its products and message and continues to evolve.
Tell us about you, your style, what is the one luxury item that you really want to have?
I am an Engineer turned lingerie designer and entrepreneur, a wife and mom. I love pop rock music. I love to travel and discover new cultures and food.
My style is comfy chic. I am that person that finds one item they love and buys it in all colors.
One luxury item I would love to have will be a Jaeger-LeCoultre watch.
Name three African owned luxury brands that you admire and why?
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Malee Skincare
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Alara
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Vanleles Diamonds
These brands are changing the narrative about African brands. Celebrating, supporting and promoting African sourced raw materials, talent and designers. Changing the way the world sees Africa.
Do you have any lifestyle – trend predictions for 2019?
There’s a focus now on SELF whether in food, diet, fashion, lifestyle choices, careers or relationships. People are starting to choose what’s best for them and putting themselves first. You cannot pour from an empty cup. Before you can give to others or influence others you need to take care of yourself. I believe that’s very important.
