“Two Years Ago, I Would’ve Said No To This Dress” Tems Speaks On 2023 Oscars Dress

Nigerian music star Temilade Openiyi, known professionally as Tems has explained the choice of dress for the just-ended 2023 Oscar Awards ceremony.

The musician who has received heavy backlash for her ‘rude view-blocking‘ dress in a pre-Oscars interview gave behind-the-scenes details on the controversial gown.

Speaking with Harper’s Bazaar, Tems revealed she decided to “go all out”  and “make the most” of her first Oscars attendance.

“Two years ago, I would’ve said no to this dress,” she said.

2023 Oscars: Twitter Divided Over Tems’ Rude View-Blocking Outfit

“But it’s my first Oscars — I am going to go all out. I really wanted to make the most of the day. The dress is also my way of celebrating my work and the people around me, celebrating my country, and celebrating the people that are rooting for me. This dress says ‘Yes, yes, I am here!'”

For the Oscars, Tems selected a custom white sculptural gown from Ukrainian brand Lever Couture’s AW22 Leleka Couture collection, a look that Tems described as “outside the box.” She wore the dreamy white gown with metallic silver eyeliner and cocoa-lined lips that complimented the overall futuristic tone of the outfit.

Tems became the first Nigerian Oscar nominee ever this year when she was recognized for her with work with director Ryan Coogler and Rihanna on the Wakanda Forever track “Lift Me Up.”

She is the first African woman to have five Billboard hits (including her infectious collaboration with Wizkid, “Essence”) and also the continent’s best-selling female artist.