Exclusive: All you need to know about the creator of Maya Jama’s stunning Love Island red two-piece

Without question, Maya Jama has stolen most of (if not all) of the headlines when it comes to Love Island this year. The television presenter has made a sensational debut and has been widely lauded for both her presenting and her fashion outfits!

When ITV dropped their first look of Love Island in January, they shared a shot of host Maya Jama arriving in a helicopter. Although everyone was looking at her mode of transport, the main focus was on what she was wearing.

Maya looked absolutely incredible in a two-piece Rose set by Crolage, designed by Sierra Ndagire. I was lucky enough to interview Sierra about how she came about to design a piece for Maya and what is next for her professionally?

When did you start your label Crolage?

January 2021

What inspired you to start a fashion label? Have you always been interested in fashion?

I was always interested in Fashion, but it took a backseat in my life as Science made the most logical sense. I was good at both, so stuck out the most stable route. However, last year I decided to make an instagram portfolio as a hobby. Crochet was a great outlet as I could make it all myself and the pieces would be unique. Therefore, I thought it was a great place to start.

How would you describe your label? Do you have a specific woman in mind when you are designing?

I would describe it as young, vibrant, and daring currently. That’s currently where I am mentally as a designer. And I don’t particularly design for a specific woman, but my goal is to bring out confidence in everyone that wears my designs.

Where do you get your inspiration from?

Truthfully, everywhere. Being British Ugandan and spending crucial parts of my life in both countries, my experience is unique. I mix these two experiences, there’s so much texture, so many different things, different ways of life, different environments. My experience in these two very different worlds is what I merge and get inspired by.

How did it come about that Maya Jama wore one of your outfits on Love Island? Was it through her or a stylist?

Yes, her stylist Rhea Francois contacted me. I was on holiday in Berlin at the time and they needed the item the next day because they had a fitting. I couldn't do it in time for the fitting because I got back at midnight the next day, However, I then stayed up all night making the outfit so I could deliver it to them right before they left. Her wearing it was not guaranteed, it was dependent on her liking the item.

Do you have any other celebrities who wear your label regularly?

Summer Walker, Indiyah Pollack, Hailee Steinfeld and several other influencers have worn clothes from my label.

What happened after Maya Jama wore your outfit on Love Island? Were you inundated with calls?

I got more clicks. My sales increased and more people trust my brand due to her wearing it. I genuinely think she has opened the brand up to new clientele.

And yes, I was, I got contacted by several magazines, news outlets and even individuals congratulating me etc

What's next for you professionally?

A lot of versatility and all sorts of unexpected projects. Personally, I see this as the beginning of my professional career, so the world is my oyster really.

Do you have any role models when it comes to fashion?

Yes definitely. Virgil Abloh obviously and seeing several black women who have grown and made an impact on the fashion world. These include Anifa Mvuemba of Hanifa, Fisayo Longe of Kai Collective and Mary-Ann Msengi of Farai London. When it comes to craft, Elsa Schiaparelli really inspires me