The Timeless Style of Mr. Tex Egbedi: A 30-Year Legacy of Elegance and Refinement
By; Al Humphrey Onyanabo
Mr. Tex Egbedi, the owner of the topflight Men’s Shop, Texen, has been a prominent figure in the Nigerian fashion industry for over 30 years. Known for his impeccable sense of style and grooming, Mr. Egbedi has been a trendsetter in men’s fashion, setting the bar high for others in the industry.
When it comes to his personal style, Mr. Egbedi is known for his sophisticated and well-tailored looks. He is often seen in tailored suits, crisp dress shirts, and polished shoes, exuding an air of elegance and refinement. His attention to detail is evident in the way he accessorizes his outfits, often opting for classic pieces such as a sleek watch or a stylish pocket square.
One of the key elements of Mr. Egbedi’s style is his ability to effortlessly mix and match different pieces to create a cohesive and polished look. Whether he’s attending a formal event or just going about his daily routine, Mr. Egbedi always looks put together and stylish.
In addition to his impeccable sense of style, Mr. Egbedi is also known for his impeccable grooming. He is always well-groomed and a clean-shaven appearance. His attention to grooming reflects his commitment to looking his best at all times, and it is a testament to his dedication to maintaining a polished and professional image.
As the owner of Texen, Mr. Egbedi’s sense of style has undoubtedly influenced the fashion choices of many Nigerian men. His high class Boutique is known for carrying a curated selection of high-quality menswear, and customers often seek out his expertise and advice when it comes to updating their wardrobes.
Mr. Egbedi’s influence extends beyond The House of Texen, as he is also a respected figure in the Nigerian fashion community. He has been a mentor to many up-and-coming designers and has been a vocal advocate for the growth and development of the Nigerian fashion industry.
In the over 23 years I have known Tex Egbedi owner of the upscale Men’s fashion shop, Texen. He has always been spot in whether night or day. Well dressed and groomed. A perfect gentleman man.
I have also never seen him use foul language or talk down on anyone.
Tex Egbedi was a fore runner in the men’s style business. Starting out as a style and society reporting in the late 80’s his Boutique on Awolowo way Ikeja was where we gathered to have a sneak at the latest men’s magazines, GQ, VOQUE, etc. He had them always. In the reception we sat scanning through learning a few new things.
Style n Society writers who have touched base with Texen over the years include, Tony okonedo, the famous Town Talker,
Debo Fatiregun,
Kunle Bakare,
Mike Osagie,
Al Humphrey Onyanbo,
Vicki Ibanga,
Nike Sotade, Yinka Agboala and Remi Diagbare amongst many others.
He was also generous with his time. Pointing us to the latest trends in men’s fashion.
When I put together the Best Dressed Men in Lagos compilation, I sat in his office as we ticked off names who did not deserve to be on the list. That shook the city.
Age has mellowed him somewhat but the man we all call Uncle Tex is still as stylish and classy as ever. He picks his words with care throwing inspirational tips and encouragements along the way.
His line of business has also changed with time. Yes, he still brings in those swanky suits for the big boys, exquisite hats, leather goods and bags for men, fashion accessories and so on.
But he also has gone into manufacturing of boxers, and underwear for men. He also has a line of office shirts, and a factory producing traditional wears for the super Rich. His Boutique is where to find the latest hats and men’s fashion accessories, sandals and shoes.
I have always wanted to ask him why he did not start a grooming school for men. I know he schools big boys on dressing well and combining colours and all that but a real school for young men to learn grooming would have been super cool.
Those days he lived the high life, with a flat in London where the boys gathered,
flying first class and drinking the best cognac. He always had a bottle somewhere in his office for the big boys, coffee was also handy. He ran a classy establishment for the young men of his day with class. He did not cater for millionaires, rarely, a few stray in. His catch have always been the thriving professionals, CEO and executive directors of Multi-Nationals who know that looking good is good business.
He is the best man to advice our Politicians on how to dress. He will pick out clothes for what occasion to help create the proper image without breaking the bank. I recall both of us going through a magazine I published years ago, it had a bank MD on the cover, well dressed. He took time looking at the cover and told me, he was wearing the wrong pair of shoes for the suit he had on. That took us into another 30 minute lecture on dressing and grooming for men.
When you go visiting with him, there is no hurry for us his boys. You will go away a few wise tips, something new or meet some big fish who sneaked in to pick up something or have his measurements taken.
Uncle Tex is always proud to tell you he is a Sapele boy. He has never forgotten his roots and he has a branch of Texen out there.
These days when Niger Delta big boys want to make their trado and senators wears. They seek him out because they know that as a homeboy himself, they will stand out in any occasion.
It’s a transition that I find really amazing. Crossing over from fashion merchandising to full blown local manufacturing and the reduction in the stress of having to always source forex and paying duties and many more. Age also brings wisdom and with it rest they say.
It’s a long time Uncle Tex has thrown an open house with champagne, congnac and some chops and a chance to network with the Biggies. Who knows…maybe soon again.
And off course, Mr Tex Egbedi is also one of the StoryTeller Icons for a New Nigeria, deservedly so.
By: Al Humphrey Onyanabo ( The STORYTELLER)
Tel; +2347054674906
Email Nigeria360online@gmail.com
