by Ekene Okwuegbunam

On the 1st of October, Mango – the Spanish fashion line that has the Latin beauty, Penelope Cruz, as one of its faces – held a no-holds-barred shopping experience, offering amazing one-time discounts on all items in stock. The venue of the event was Mango’s outlet at Lagos’ glitziest mall, The Palms, Lekki. For some it was a celebration of Nigeria’s 50th independence anniversary, but for many others, it was just another excuse to shop themselves silly! The doors opened at 8pm, and Lagos fashionistas flocked into Store 18 in a frenzy, rummaging and sifting through the display racks. With practiced ease and fixed determination, they looked to take advantage of the discounts – to find that one piece (or maybe two or more) that would make the girls green with envy and the guys sore with desire.

At the store’s entrance were six models, fitted in Mango pieces. They struck perfect mannequin poses changing apparel from time to time. As each model emerged with a new outfit, shoppers paused to take pictures of the models, competing fiercely with the professional photographers who were also taking shots of guests on the red carpet and in the store. Every shopper worth her salt knows that vigorous shopping requires an energy investment, and Mango did not disappoint. They provided fuel for the guests who could choose from small chops, cup cakes, spring rolls, samosas; and to drink, juice, red and white wine. Hence a new customer service trend was born. ‘Snack while you shop’. How’s that for premium service?

Unfortunately Mango caters only to the fairer sex, so many men, feeling slighted, stayed at home to sulk. However quite a number of them accompanied their little misses to the do, and I’m sure they served as a useful shopping resource: “Fetch me a basket will you, Henry love?” Still, some other men wandered around alone, and one might have wondered what on earth a lone single man was seeking at such an event. However, asking that question would be as silly as stopping a bee to ask what it wants in a flower field.

To sum it up, the Mango event was an avenue for multiple achievements – shop, eat, meet and greet, and come away from it all feeling a deep satisfaction, and a renewed sense of independence.

Oluwapelumi