In the world of fashion, where creativity meets personal expression, few names resonate as powerfully as Lilian Madyara. Known as “Hollywood Lee,” she has carved out a niche as a bold and glamorous fashion blogger, influencer, and industry advocate. From her early days of experimenting with style to becoming an award-winning fashion icon, Lilian has remained passionate about showcasing the potential of Zimbabwe’s fashion industry.

In this exclusive interview with My Afrika Magazine (MAM), Lilian (LM) shares her journey, insights, and aspirations for the future of fashion in Zimbabwe and beyond.

MAM: Thank you for this exclusive, Lilian! Could you start by telling us a bit about your journey into the fashion world? What inspired you to become a fashion blogger?
LM: Thank you for letting me share my journey. I was a tomboy in high school, growing up as the only girl in a family of five. Fashion wasn’t really my thing until I finished high school and went to college. There, I started noticing how well-dressed the girls were, and I fell in love with high heels, handbags, and dressing up. I felt like I had to make up for lost time, so I went all out and started receiving compliments. My friends said I dressed like I was in Hollywood, which earned me the nickname “Hollywood Lee.” I realized I had a knack for mixing ordinary pieces to look fabulous, and that’s when I decided to start fashion blogging to share my tips on blending high-end and low-end fashion.

MAM: You describe your style as “Hollywood-fabulous.” Can you elaborate on what that means to you and how it reflects in your everyday looks?
LM: By Hollywood-fabulous, I mean my style isn’t ordinary. I have an eye for unique pieces that make me stand out. I don’t follow trends; I prefer timeless, elegant looks that attract compliments. Hollywood fashion is all about glamour and sophistication—think midi dresses, puff sleeves, belted waists, and lots of accessories. That’s my daily vibe.

MAM: You’ve mentioned wanting to inspire the average girl to be creative with her wardrobe. What advice would you give to someone who feels they need expensive brands to look stylish?
LM: My advice is to always mix your highs and lows. Being stylish isn’t about the price tags; it’s about how well you put pieces together. Pay more attention to the details than to the brand names.

MAM: Can you tell us more about HL Eyewear? What inspired you to venture into luxury designer-inspired eyewear, and what sets your brand apart?
LM: HL Eyewear was born out of the need for a solution. I struggled to find unique sunglasses, so I decided to design my own. Plus, my dad always emphasized the importance of protecting our eyes from UV light, and he had an amazing collection of sunglasses himself. I wanted to create eyewear for Africans by Africans, combining functionality with style.

MAM: You’ve received several accolades, including the Style Oracle 2016 Best Zim Blogger award. How do these recognitions shape your approach to fashion and blogging?
LM: These awards have been such an encouragement. When I started, I didn’t think people noticed my work, but the recognition pushed me to keep going. It’s why I became the Executive Director for the Style Icon Zim Awards. I realized we need to honor those in our fashion industry to keep it alive and thriving.

MAM: As a fashion influencer, what do you see as your role in shaping fashion trends, especially within the Zimbabwean context?
LM: My role has always been to showcase Zimbabwean fashion talent to the world. From blogging and wearing local designs to walking the Soweto Fashion Week runway, my goal is to promote our designers. We need to find and embrace our unique Zimbabwean style and showcase it globally. Wearing local designs not only celebrates our identity but also helps grow the industry.

MAM: What challenges have you faced as a Zimbabwean fashion blogger, and how have you overcome them to make a mark in the industry?
LM: One challenge is finding people willing to collaborate for the betterment of the industry. Funding projects like the Style Icon Zim Awards has also been tough because some don’t take the fashion industry seriously. I’ve learned to keep going, even with limited resources. Grace and persistence have seen me through.

MAM: Your blog is just the start of “greater history to be made.” What future projects or goals do you have in mind for your brand and your career?
LM: Absolutely! I want to see the fashion industry go global. Despite setbacks in 2023 and 2024, we’re working on a strong comeback for the awards. I’m also building towards creating a fashion museum to preserve our history and inspire future generations.

MAM: You emphasize that styling isn’t about brands but about how well you can put a look together. Can you share a personal example of a favorite look you created without relying on high-end labels?
LM: For Africa Day, I collaborated with a local designer, Samsara, to create a dress made from sackcloth. The entire look cost less than $100, yet it was stunning and memorable.

MAM: What other roles do you play within Zimbabwe’s fashion industry that help shape its narrative across Africa?
LM: Beyond my YouTube channel and the Style Icon Awards, I mentor young designers and style consult for individuals discovering their fashion footprints. I’m also part of the National Arts Council, contributing to industry discussions.

MAM: Lastly, what advice would you give to aspiring fashion bloggers or consultants looking to break into the industry?
LM: Start where you are with what you have and focus on serving others. Stay authentic and create work that reflects your unique perspective. Market yourself consistently, and don’t underestimate the power of collaboration. Together, we can shape the future of African fashion.