Lupita Nyong'o Blue Dress: Nairobi Honored at Oscars

By Emma Koonse, Christian Post Reporter Tuesday, March 04, 2014

This year's Academy Award winner Lupita Nyong'o revealed the significance behind the powder blue Prada gown she wore to the ceremony on Sunday.

The 86th Annual Academy Awards recognized Nyong'o as Best Supporting Actress for her role in "12 Years A Slave," but the actress had already made a name for herself amongst fashion critics with her red carpet choice. According to the starlet, she helped design the pleated chiffon V-neck gown, including its light-blue color.

"[The color] reminds me of Nairobi … I wanted to have a little bit of home," the 31-year-old actress explained, according to MSN.

Nyong'o, who identifies herself Mexican-Kenyan, comes from a prominent Kenyan political family and was born in Mexico City, Mexico, but grew up primarily in Kenya. She completed her Oscars look with satin platform sandals, a matching clutch, a gold and diamond headband and earrings and bracelet from Fred Leighton. The actress' look set Twitter abuzz where #Nairobiblue instantly began trending.

In addition to Nyong'o's fashion choice on the red carpet at Sunday's awards show, the actress also received praise for her moving acceptance speech.

"When I look down at this golden statue, may it remind me and every little child that no matter where you're from, your dreams are valid. Thank you," she said after thanking members of her family, friends and others.

The starlet's Oscar win has made headlines across the continent where people are celebrating her success. Among those people is Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta, who referred to Nyong'o as "the Pride of Africa" on Twitter before following the African tradition of honoring community elders and congratulating her parents.

"Excellence inspires and deserves emulation," President Kenyatta said in a statement, according to ABC News. "Lupita reminds us of all that is possible for the youth of this nation when they set their hearts and minds to a great task- in her own words, 'No matter where you're from, your dreams are valid.' We, their parents, must take these words to heart; ours is to help our young people to fulfill their potential."