We’re excited to release the first part of our lifestyle series celebrating women through fashion, art, music, and film. Ahead of International Women’s Day this month, we’re starting off with a fashion edition showcasing the wardrobe of the ever-elegant Chinonye Vanessa Mbonu. Vanessa is the vice president of marketing at NAACP and a Forbes 30 under 30 honoree.
We’ll sift through Vanessa’s wardrobe to bring you what she’s wearing to work, on the red carpet, and when she’s just at home, lounging with her dog. We’ve been inspired not only by Vanessa’s work but also her sense of style, and we know you’ll feel exactly the same.
Meet Vanessa Nonnie
Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Vanessa has a BSc in Journalism from St. John’s University and an MSc in Media and Communication from the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE).
As the VP of Marketing at the NAACP, Vanessa leads the organization’s marketing strategy, amplifying their efforts on social justice and equity. Through her campaigns, Vanessa has raised more than $15 million for the association through individual donations. Vanessa is also the founder of WRIBRAND – a brand consulting agency, and CasaVae, her home turned interior design studio. Vanessa has received several recognitions for her work, including being listed on the Forbes 30 under 30 for marketing and advertising and being recognised as a Google Next Generation Policy leader. Beyond her stellar career, Vanessa believes that leveling up isn’t just about managing your money — it’s about showing up with confidence, and nothing does that quite like a killer wardrobe.
Vanessa is passionate about celebrating Black and African designers who are redefining luxury and blending culture with artistry. In this conversation, she opens up about her journey, fashion influences, and the lessons that have shaped her.
Tell us a little about yourself—where you grew up and what shaped you.
My name is Vanessa Mbonu, and I grew up in Festac, Lagos, before moving to the United States when I was 10 years old. Right now, I’m the Vice President of Marketing for the NAACP, the first and largest civil rights organization in the United States. We primarily advocate for anti-racism and anti-discrimination policies, and we champion inclusion and equity across all industries. Every year, we host the Image Awards, which recognize outstanding talent in the media and the arts.
I have been shaped by my personal experiences and those of the people before me. Fashion has always been a creative outlet for me—I dress according to how I feel or who I want to be in a particular moment. I grew up around strong, powerful women. My mum and my aunties were young go-getters doing incredible things. My mum and her sisters held jobs in investment banks, and they always went to work in their skirt suits—I thought that was the coolest thing in the world. I couldn’t wait to have my own, though funnily enough, I don’t think I own a skirt suit today.
When I moved to the States, I modeled for a bit because I was tall. I was so sure I’d be a fashion journalist, so I developed an unhealthy obsession with clothes. Over time, I started merging my love of fashion with my passion for social justice, celebrating the creativity and impact of people of color around the world.
What’s a childhood memory that still makes you smile?
The first time I came to America was not when I moved here, but when I visited for the first time. I was about six or seven, and we flew from Lagos to New York on South African Airways. My mother had ten siblings, and one of them was getting married. Nigerians love to travel dressed to the nines, so my mom and her siblings were all in suits, and the kids were in matching denim sets. We looked like we were going to a convention. When we landed, we had to drive from New York to D.C., and limos were waiting at the airport. So, we drove all the way in a limousine, not realizing how extravagant it was.
At one point, we stopped at McDonald’s for snacks—can you imagine 11 people pulling up to McDonald’s in a limo? I think we got lost at some point and had to stop at a random guy’s house to use his phone to call my dad for directions because there were no cell phones then. Looking back, it was such an over-the-top introduction to America, but I cherish that memory because of the family time and the experience of being together.
What’s something people would be surprised to learn about you?
If you only know me from the internet, you’d be surprised to learn that I am very afraid of flying. It’s ironic because I fly at least once a month. My fear of flying is tied to my fear of water —I never learned to swim as a child. Every time I’m on a plane, I have this irrational fear that the plane will crash, and I’ll be the one survivor—only to drown. It’s a crazy fear, but it’s real for me.
If you could have dinner with any three people, dead or alive, who would they be and why?
Jay-Z. I need to know what really went down in that elevator with Beyoncé and Solange.
My paternal grandmother. I love history, but in African culture, so much of it is passed down orally, and a lot gets lost. My paternal grandmother passed away when my dad was young, and there’s only one picture of her. I feel like she’s the missing piece in my family’s history.
I’d also like to have dinner with my future child, who doesn’t exist yet. Is that weird? Probably.
What’s a life lesson you wish you could tell your younger self?
Stop buying everything, girl! There was a period when I was an emotional spender—happy, sad, bored, I bought something. I accumulated so much stuff, and looking back, there were so many better ways I could have used my money.
Also, life is short, but there’s no rush to become the woman you’re meant to be. Life happens in phases, and each phase should be enjoyed and relished. Something new is always coming — good or bad. Just embrace where you are instead of trying so hard to be who you think you’re supposed to be.
How would you describe your personal style in three words?
Eclectic. I like everything — bright, bold, muted, tailored, oversized. I’m an equal-opportunity buyer and wearer.
Comfortable. I don’t believe in “beauty is pain.” I prioritize comfort. I love tailored pieces, but I also wear oversized clothes most of the time.
Chic – Always.
What’s one fashion item or accessory that always makes you feel confident?
Bags. I am a bag lady, a handbag girlie.
If you took an index of everything in my closet, handbags would probably make up 45% of it. I love all kinds—designer bags, unique bags, statement bags. Funny enough, I don’t even carry much inside them, but I feel like a good bag completes an outfit.
I’m also in my “aunty” era now, where I like to match my bags and shoes. So, sue me.
Now to what Vanessa is wearing this Week!
Let’s kick things off with two stunning looks from Vanessa’s Wardrobe:
The Nowai Haltered Jacquard Maxi dress by Neiteh.
Don’t you just love the splashes of bright and bold colours and the sleek silhouette? Finding something to wear over and over again can be really stressful. But this dress gives, “I make a statement, every single time”.
To style, let the dress take center stage. You can add minimal accessories such as simple jewelry and a chic handbag.
Next is the ILÉ dress by DLCT Contemporary. Very intriguing. Very flattering. Very timeless. This dress is the kind of wardrobe staple outfit that won’t go out of style soon.
Stay tuned for more looks from Vanessa!
