Nigerian Singer, Temilade Openiyi popularly known as Tems as shared her reasons for wearing an attention-grabbing dress to the 2023 Oscars.
The highly coveted awards ceremony, which took place at the Dolby Centre in Los Angeles on Sunday, was attended by some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry, who dazzled in an array of stunning fashion pieces.
Tems, who was among the attendees, wore a bespoke, sculptural white gown by Ukrainian brand Lever Couture’s AW22, Leleka Couture collection. The outfit, which came complete with a large headpiece, was criticised by some for obstructing the views of others at the event.
Speaking with Harper’s Bazaar, Tems in a pre-Oscars interview gave behind-the-scenes details on the controversial gown.
According to the Grammy award-winning artist, she chose to “go all out” and “make the most” of her first Oscars attendance.
Tems explained that just two years ago, she would have declined to wear such a dress. However, she felt that it was an excellent opportunity to celebrate her work, the people around her, her country, and those supporting her. The dress was a statement piece that shouted out, “Yes, yes, I am here!”
Speaking on her recent accomplishments on the international music scene, the singer revealed that she believed this was only the beginning for her.
Tems noted that her collaborations with music icons such as Beyonce and Rihanna were a sign that she was on the right path.
“If the biggest women in the world love my work to such an extent that they are working with me, then that must say something. My work is actually reaching places, it’s making some type of impact.
“And that is insane! I really am just trying to keep my feet on the ground and continue running and doing things that are a hundred per cent authentic to me. Evolving, learning, growing. It’s just the beginning for me,” Tems said.
Tems was nominated for Best Original Song at the Oscars for her collaboration with singer Rihanna, music producer Ludwig Göransson, and Black Panther director Ryan Coogler on the movie’s soundtrack, ‘Lift Me Up.’
Unfortunately, the award went to Kaala Bhairava and Rahul Sipligunj for ‘Naatu Naatu.’
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