By Sterfon Demings
Where in the world is Chikodi’s World, and what in the world is it? Let’s unpack this.
Chikodi’s World is a unique boutique find that consists of several facets to it’s brand. The boutique is located at 2000 Mulberry Street Montgomery, AL 36106 in a quaint cottage. From the moment you step into Chikodi’s World you will never want to leave! You will find an extensive array of luxurious afrocentric clothing and jewelry. The quality is truly impeccable!
There is a large variety of hand tailored clothing and jewelry curated and commissioned from Africa and India. Chikodi Demings is the designer of most of the commissioned goods from overseas where she interacts directly with the artisans.
Chikodi herself also designs and hand makes some of the clothing and jewelry sold within the boutique and online.
Since you now have a brief composite of this local business, let’s go back a little and give you some history.
Chikodi is a native of Nigeria, a country referred to as the Giant of Africa, because of its massive population. The country is said to have unrivaled cultural magnificence! With that kind of background interwoven into your DNA, talent just seems to come effortlessly.
Chikodi is a natural hairstylist by trade. Chikodi later became a jewelry and fashion designer, which has also turned out to be equally fulfilling.
Chikodi is a master cosmetologist who turned natural hairstylist almost three decades ago. Chikodi spent time as a platform artist for several major haircare companies. Chikodi was also the hair artist, spokesperson and the face that graced posters worldwide for Jamaica Mango and Lime haircare. She has taught hair internationally from Amsterdam, London and Germany to South Africa.
She was ahead of her time and ahead of the natural hair movement curve. At a time in the 90’s when most African American women and their hairstylists were still using different chemical processes to create styles for their hair, Chikodi began to show them the alternative for healthier hair. The most important aspect of it all is using your natural hair and having it healthy.
Chikodi’s work has graced all forms of media and in diverse ways. Her work has appeared in magazines, newspapers, videos, television and film!
She’s created looks for entertainers such as Chloe X Halle, Lalah Hathaway, Saida Garrett and Sean Penn to name a few!
Chikodi previously owned and operated locations in the Virgin Islands and Los Angeles California. A life changing move was made to Montgomery in July 2017. Chikodi’s husband a Montgomery native, decided to come home to help care for sick parents. A difficult task many are faced with should they choose to accept the challenge.
Sharing in accepting the challenge, Chikodi made the move in support of her husband and his family. The business officially opened in the spring of 2018 and has progressed very well since then.
Then we all know what happened in 2020 when many businesses shut down, that was a real game changer! Chikodi appropriately adjusted by bringing her boutique online. Chikodi’s presence is now established on social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook and TikTok always smiling and enjoying creating content! You can also find her on Etsy, Chikodisworld.com and regularly on Facebook Live and Instagram Live.
Involving herself with local artists and events, she stays very active as well. One example a collaborative effort Chikodi has formed is with local artist and activist Michelle Browder where she constantly incorporates her true African essence!
Come to the historic Mulberry Shopping District here in Montgomery to step into Chikodi’s World! You will be glad you did!
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