Gabriella John Nasky, referred to as Naskii, became an internet sensation for her work in styling Tems and Dave's 'Raindance' music video, which was done on a tight schedule of just 48 hours. The spark for her fashion journey ignited from an early frustration with music videos, where she often questioned the wardrobe choices that seemed out of place.
"I’d watch a music video or a film and think, ‘Why are you wearing that here?’ It didn’t blend with the environment, and it used to bother me," Naskii recalled. This persistent irritation shaped her vision as a stylist.
The COVID-19 pandemic served as a turning point for her, compelling her to explore a career in fashion beyond mere interest. The lockdown prompted her to seek a more fulfilling life as her previous career path felt unsustainable. "I wasn’t happy. After lockdown, life was showing me what it really does, and I sought purpose. I wanted work that, though challenging, felt rewarding."
Raised in a culture that prioritized academic success, Naskii initially pursued a medical career. However, she shifted directions after recognizing that her true calling lay in the creative field. When questioned about an alternative career outside of styling, she admitted uncertainty, having only previously dreamed of dancing for famous artists like Beyoncé, but ultimately realizing that her talent was meant for the creative industry.
Her entry into styling was unplanned, characterized by a series of trial-and- error experiences. She took on small styling gigs to hone her skills, starting with an upcoming artist. "It was chaotic, unrefined, and overwhelming, but I felt something click," she reflects.
Naskii’s journey into professional styling was catalyzed by her brother, a film director, who was initially skeptical about her ability to deliver on projects. He was cautious about trusting a family member with critical tasks, emphasizing the importance of professionalism in the industry. "People put a lot of trust in you, and execution is crucial," she noted.
Her career took off when she styled a significant music video for Mohbad titled 'Backside' in 2022, where she handled various looks under immense pressure. Despite not being a commercial hit, Naskii considered it a pivotal moment, reflecting on how the styles from the video continue to feel relevant.
Describing her creative process as chaotic, she typically works under tight time constraints. Often given only a few hours from the moment she receives a song, she quickly develops mood boards using limited references from artists, creating a visual concept in a rush.
The aspect of her job that brings her the most joy is not the shoot itself, but rather the process of assembling ideas. "Shooting can be overwhelming; the real satisfaction comes from tying it all together on the mood board. Shooting a video often takes hours for just a few minutes of final product," she said.
To a casual observer, her mood boards might seem like simple compilations of attractive images, but for Naskii, they serve as meticulous research, drawing inspiration from varying aesthetics. She credits her understanding of music and visual culture to her upbringing in a music-enthusiastic home.
For the 'Raindance' shoot, Naskii had just 48 hours to prepare for a production involving a large cast, and the funding arrived later than expected. She detailed the urgency of the situation, emphasizing that such a tight timeline is atypical. The creative brief from Dave, who co-directed the video, was straightforward yet challenging: it had to reflect a chic, African essence without over-the-top elements.
Despite her significant influence on the video, not everything went smoothly. Both Dave and Tems took an active role in approving the styling choices to maintain a cohesive representation of their artistic vision.
When asked about her aesthetic philosophy, Naskii avoids labeling herself too rigidly. Rather than chasing trends, she prioritizes comfort and confidence in the looks she creates, focusing on how individuals feel in their outfits. "I want everyone to feel beautiful and sexy, regardless of their body shape or age, but this often leads to challenges in an industry that leans towards shock over coherence."
Her styling portfolio now includes collaborations with notable musicians such as Tems and Lojay, as well as various projects spanning numerous influential artists like Mohbad and Amaeya. Recently, she fondly recalls her style decisions for a performance inspired by Fela Kuti’s legacy, underscoring her cultural connections in the artistic sphere.
In an industry rife with challenges, especially in Nigeria characterized by restricted budgets and rapid execution, she remains determined to carve her own path while retaining her artistic integrity. She emphasizes that potential clients should understand that quality styling demands commitment and funding.
Naskii keeps essential items in her styling bag, which includes safety pins, measuring tapes, and steamers – tools that can save productions from unexpected fashion mishaps. Looking ahead, she aims to solidify her niche within the fashion community while striving to elevate her artistry to new levels.
Among her aspirations is a desire to work with global icons like Beyoncé and major sports apparel brands, all while continuing to express herself authentically through her projects. As she progresses, Naskii seeks to balance imaginative styling with the realities of the fast-paced industry, fostering a growth mindset through each collaboration.
While she brushes off the label of ‘stylist,’ it is apparent that Naskii is more than that; she is a visionary who beautifully merges various influences into wearable art, defining her future and the impact she aims to leave within the fashion landscape.
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