If you know me, or you’re my friend, acquaintance, or colleague in the media and entertainment industry (and, by extension, any industry), then you’ve probably heard my go-to greeting: “Working boy!” It’s my playful way of acknowledging hustle and hard work—a term borrowed from popular slang among the “yutes”, often used to describe those making money through less-than-legal means. Of course, my use of the phrase couldn’t be further from that connotation. For me, it’s a salute to those genuinely grinding, showing up, and doing the work. Some laugh it off; others might tell me, “Don’t call me that.” But when you strip it down, being a working boy is just that—being someone who does the work. Enter Emmanuel Goodnews. In a city where fashion is not just an industry but a way of life, Emmanuel has carved a space for himself as one of the most promising young stylists on the rise. From styling the stars of Real Housewives of Lagos to crafting wedding day magic for Moses and Marie Bliss, his work reflects passion, persistence, and an unwavering commitment to his craft. Not forgetting a regular clientele that includes household names like Hilda Baci, Osad Ighodalo, and Enioluwa Adeoluwa, Emmanuel’s journey is a masterclass in hard work meeting opportunity. Yet, for all the glitz and glam that comes with styling celebrities, he remains refreshingly grounded, a testament to his belief in the transformative power of fashion and his respect for the hustle. And while he’s just getting started, it’s safe to say the fashion world better make room—this working boy is here to stay.
Interview by Ayo Lawal
Emmanuel, you’ve built an impressive portfolio at such a young age. What sparked your passion for fashion styling, and when did you know this was your path? And let’s get real—did you ever doubt your journey? How did you push through?
Growing up, I was always fascinated by the transformative power of fashion. I think what sparked my passion was watching my mom get ready for special occasions. She’d try on different outfits, and I’d see how each look changed her confidence and demeanour. From there, I started experimenting with styling my friends and family, and it just clicked.

As for self-doubt, I’d be lying if I said I never questioned my path. There have been times when I felt like I wasn’t good enough or that I was in over my head. But I’ve learned to push through those feelings by focusing on my why and reminding myself how far I’ve come.
Fashion in this city can feel like a battlefield. What were some of the toughest challenges you faced breaking into the industry, and how did you overcome them?
Breaking into the fashion industry in this city can be tough, especially when starting from scratch. One of my biggest challenges was building my network and getting my foot in the door. I overcame it by being persistent, attending industry events, and reaching out to people I admired in the field. I also ensured that I was always prepared and had a strong portfolio showcasing my skills.
Every stylist has that breakthrough moment. For you, what was the first job or client that made you think, ‘Yes, I’ve arrived’?
There have been a few turning points in my career, but two jobs that stand out were styling Priscilla’s Bridgerton-inspired look in 2023 and Enioluwa’s AMVCA look in the same year. Both experiences were surreal, and they made me feel like I was making a name for myself in the industry.
You’ve worked with some of the biggest household names, who approach their brands in different ways. How do you keep your creative edge while adapting to a wide variety of personalities and aesthetics?
Maintaining my creative edge is all about staying curious and inspired. I make it a point to attend fashion shows, read industry publications, and follow other stylists and designers on social media. When it comes to meeting the demands of diverse personalities, I think it’s all about being a good listener and being able to adapt to different aesthetics and visions.
Mentorship is often key in the fashion world. Did you have anyone guiding you when you started, or did you figure it all out solo?
To be honest, I didn’t have a mentor when I started out. It’s been a journey of figuring things out on my own, but I’ve always been inspired by my friend Style Territory (may God bless her soul). She was a talented stylist who always pushed me to be my best self.
What’s a lesson the fashion industry taught you that no book, school, or mentor ever could?
One lesson the fashion industry has taught me is that relationships are everything. It’s not just about having a great eye or being able to put together a beautiful outfit – it’s about building trust with your clients, being reliable, and delivering exceptional service.
Styling a wedding is no joke, especially one as high-profile as Moses and Marie Bliss’s. What was the most memorable moment for you from that experience, and what did it teach you?
Styling Moses and Marie Bliss’s wedding was an unforgettable experience. The most memorable moment for me was seeing the love and connection between the couple as I styled them. It was a truly special experience, and I feel grateful to have been a part of it.
The road to success can be isolating. With so much achieved already, how do you stay motivated, especially on those days when it feels like too much?
Staying motivated can be tough, especially on days when the pressure feels overwhelming. For me, it’s all about taking a step back, focusing on my why, and reminding myself of how far I’ve come. I also make it a point to celebrate my small wins and take care of myself physically and mentally.

There’s this glamorous image of fashion stylists, but what’s a common misconception people have about your work that you wish they understood better?
One misconception about being a fashion stylist is that it’s all glamour and fun. While those things are definitely part of the job, it’s also a lot of hard work, long hours, and attention to detail. People often don’t see the behind-the-scenes work that goes into creating a beautiful outfit or looks.
Fashion is a way of life, but let’s talk personal style—what’s your go-to look when you’re off the clock? Or is dressing down not even in your vocabulary?
When I’m off-duty, I love to keep things simple and understated. You can usually find me in distressed denim jeans, a plain white or black T-shirt, and sleek sneakers. I’m all about comfort and practicality when I’m not working.
Balancing artistry with the business side of styling can’t be easy. How do you manage to stay true to your creative vision while navigating the realities of running a brand?
Balancing the artistic side of styling with the demands of running a successful brand can be challenging, but for me, it’s all about finding that sweet spot where creativity meets commerce. I make it a point to stay focused on my unique vision and aesthetic while also being open to new ideas and perspectives.
Your story is so inspiring to up-and-coming stylists. What’s the one piece of advice you’d give to someone who dreams of following in your footsteps?
My advice to young stylists is to stay true to themselves and their unique vision. Don’t be afraid to take risks and try new things—it’s often the biggest risks that lead to the greatest rewards. Also, never underestimate the power of hard work, dedication, and attention to detail.
When you think about the future, what legacy do you want to leave in the fashion industry?
When I think about my legacy in fashion, I hope that people will remember me as a stylist who was true to himself and his art. I hope that my work will continue to inspire and influence future generations of stylists and designers.
If we raided your styling kit or wardrobe right now, what’s that one item you’d fight to protect? Something with a story, perhaps?
If you raided my styling kit, the one item I’d guard with my life is a bag gifted to me by a friend. It’s a one-of-a-kind, handmade staple that holds a lot of sentimental value.
Fashion is fueled by creativity, but inspiration often strikes from the most unexpected places. What’s been your wildest or most surprising source of inspiration so far?
I find inspiration in the most unexpected places—from the colors and textures of nature to the architecture and design of the city. But honestly, some of my wildest and most unexpected sources of inspiration have come from my dreams. I’ve had instances where I’ve woken up with a clear vision of a look or a concept, and it’s been amazing to see those ideas come to life.
CREDITS
Photography: Wilson Onwuka | @Wilsononwukastudios Set Design: Ekerin Yussuf Ayomide | @Boy_a_Director