Striking designs

Eugene Dadi has created a stir with his goals for Tranmere, and now he's attracting a new audience with his fashion label

Don’t call him a big girl’s blouse, but Tranmere’s Ivory Coast international striker Eugene Dadi has teamed up with his Parisian girlfriend, Joana Varela, to create a women’s fashion label. Launched to great acclaim in Liverpool last month, it’s called huge.n.paris, and the sophisticated creations have already been modelled by Brookside star Suzanne Collins.

Dadi, himself a model during his playing days in Austria, has long had a passion for fashion and knew it was only a matter of time before he turned his attention to developing his own creations. "I did the modelling for a year and it was an enjoyable experience," says the former Aberdeen and Livingston frontman. "We can’t avoid choosing what we wear, and as we are increasingly encouraged to develop our own individuality, I think people have become more aware of how clothing can be an effective way of making a statement. That’s why I wanted to create my own range. I’m surprised no other footballer has tried it, because we are quite a fashion-conscious bunch."

The couple aim to mix “European style with British classicism and comfort”. Says Joana: "When Eugene suggested we create our own label I was really excited. It’s been hard work but the process has been simplified by the fact that we both like sophisticated clothes with a sexy edge. We often unintentionally wear a similar style."

Yet before Rovers fans start to worry that their leading goalscorer is set to pack his bags for Milan or Paris after just one season at Prenton Park, fear not. "Football will always be my greatest passion – I won’t give that up," he adds. "I am really enjoying my life here at Tranmere, and when your mind is well, your football improves. That is showing on the pitch and long may it continue?.