Toronto’s Spotlight: Mina Danielle Fashion

Dorothy Attakora, is the owner and CEO of mina danielle designs, timeless African inspired clothing was founded in 2009. mina danielle designs are exclusive afrocentric creations that take rise from the beautiful continent of africa. They feature everything from vibrant batik’s, traditional ashante kente, bold tie dye’s that make a statement, to riveting wax prints and glamorous lace prints.

Thought process behind new line?
•The thought process behind our new summer collection is 50’s sun goddess. I really want to infuse a sassy yet fresh summer look that Mina Danielle is known for. I want our clients to channel that Marilyn Monroe sass while maintaining that Ella Fitzgerald class. Summer time in Toronto is such a beautiful time to show case fashion, and why not have our African prints tell stories of our uniqueness. I really wanted to go for the 50’s pin up girl esthetic Let’s have some fun in the sun, show what our momma gave us, and mama Afrika truly has some great prints to offer us, let’s show it off.

Focus and next step for Mina Danielle designs in the remaining 2011 year?
•After two years of creating awareness about our brand, I believe 2011 is time to take the next level. The response we have received not only from Toronto, but also from men and women across Canada, the United States and beyond has been incredible, overwhelming, and fuels the momentum to move forward. With celebrities such as Beyonce, Solonge and Gwen Stefani bringing more attention to what it is we possess in Africa, it is really important to show our clients why we here at mina Danielle are a great fit for their fashion needs. And in order to do that it requires expansion and collaboration.

•We’ve been honored to have been invited to be partake of some really incredible fashion shows thus far, and have an exciting summer line up set up. Look for us at Nefertari fashion show gala June 18th, Ankara Festival July 9th, Fame Fashion Show July 15, and Luvli Ladies July 24.

How does Mina Danielle help the community and better Toronto?
•We engage in community engagement always. We are always on the ground engaging and collaborating with others that are making a social different. We proudly sponsor and make donations to events such as Souls of Feet Ubuntu Gala, Dressed to Cure Charity Fundraiser. We also selectively pick fashion shows we walk in that make a difference, such as the African Student Association at University of Toronto, Miss Awoulaba Beauty Pageant for plus size women, and Luvli Ladies, an event drawing attention to Black women and their health through fashion. We also work with local Toronto models, photographers and makeup artists looking to build their portfolios.

4. How Can People Contact Mina Danielle?
minadanielledesigns@gmail.com
www.minadanielle.com
twitter/facebook: mina danielle

Interviewed by : Abeke-Vee