Leggy Ugochi Latoya Igwilo is an international model based in Delhi, India. Igwilo is fascinated with accessories as well as short dresses that are comfortable and flatter her legs.
How it all began
Igwilo went to India to further her education at her father’s proposition, while studying in the university; she saw an opportunity to model. She studied interior design and even worked for some time while with an architectural firm in New Delhi. However, she took interest in modelling while in high school and as such, her friends often encouraged her to model. While studying in India, some fashion students approached her to shoot for their fashion portfolio and that was how modelling fully began for her.
About Igwilo the model
Igwilo is fast becoming one of the most recognised models in the Indian fashion industry, and one of the most recognizable faces in the Nigerian community in India. She is well read, versed, young and versatile socialite. She takes pride in her ability to communicate with different types of people and go for the things she appreciates.
The six feet tall model spends her time strutting the runways of different fashion shows in India. Her style of walking is often described as the perfect mix of edge and sensuality. She has done campaigns and editorials for fashion designers; she also works with photographers to explore new depths in fashion photography.
The Nigerian model in India
Igwilo is known to be the first Nigerian model to walk down one of fashion’s most celebrated platforms in India, Lakme Fashion Week (LFW). She is said to be breaking the spell of white model favoritism in India.
She is often commended for her efforts in continuing to push the boundaries of modelling in India. She’s done photo shoots and fashion shows with premier designers in India.
Life of a model
Modelling is not as cool and easy as she had thought. The life of a model is not always glamorous. Modelling is still a business and a profession, and just like any other profession; it requires hard work, personal, intra-personal and professional skill.
Hobbies and inspirations
She enjoys travelling, meeting new people, going on exciting outings and reading. She discovered that all these are the things that inspire her the most. She plans to model in Europe or the United States as well as Nigeria and eventually start her own design company.
Staying in shape
Igwilo stated that she does yoga. “I do yoga to stay in shape and I take a lot of protein and fiber-based foods, less carbs and I also drink a lot of water.”
Style
Stylish, nothing too exaggerated.
Outfits you wear
I wear clothes that make me comfortable, bring out my figure and height as well as complement my body. I don’t like outrageous clothes.
Major clothing item in your wardrobe
I think short dresses. I love to flaunt my legs in short dresses.
Clothing item you will never be caught wearing
I will not wear pyjamas in the day time neither will I wear it out. I will not also want to wear a thong on the ramp. That would be horrible.
Favourite fashion accessory
I love neck pieces, rings, bracelets and perhaps anything with some stylish stones.
Make-up
I love it natural except if I am going for a dramatic look, then, I put a little bit of drama in it.
Shoes you love
I love high heels shoes. I love heels from designers like Forever 21, Aldo, Charles and Keith.
Fashion item you would like to be
I will like to be a jacket. I find jackets really stylish. I also don’t mind being a handbag.
Hair style
I wear low cut hairstyle because as a model you have to look neat. This hairstyle does not only make you look neat but also youthful and refreshed. It is also easy to maintain.
Advice for aspiring models
They should be realistic about their expectations and choices. They should also avoid being desperate so that people will not take undue advantage of them. Aspiring models should believe in themselves and allow their inner voice guide them. Rejection is a part of success, hence, they should take it in the right spirit. Also use it as a learning tool and don’t let it affect who they are.
