People often say that being born into a celebrity family guarantees a path to fame, and Didi Stone, daughter of former model Aliane Olomide and famous Congolese musician Koffi Olomide, proves this point.
Koffi Olomide has had his share of popularity as a Congolese dandy and artist with hits like “Bambino,” “Papa Mobimba,” and “Fouta Djallon.” But how much do you know about his daughter, Didi-Stone Olomide, and what sets her apart as the latest “It girl” worth knowing?
Becoming an “It girl” takes more than cute Instagram photos and good vibes. It’s driven by a strong support team behind the scenes; it’s a full-time job that requires a special “It” factor, which model Didi-Stone definitely has.
Didi-Stone is a French model born on July 19, 1999, in Marseille, France, who has quickly risen to fame in the fashion world. Growing up in a creative family, the 24-year-old spent most of her childhood in Marseille with her musician father and model mother. While attending a local high school, she discovered her passion for modeling and decided to pursue it as a career, and now gradually becoming a household name in the fashion industry. Keep reading for all you need to know about her.
Who are Didi-Stone’s Parents?
Didi-Stone Olomide’s father, Koffi Olomide, is a renowned Congolese musician known for his energetic performances and hit songs in the Soukous genre. He has won many prestigious awards, including several Kora Awards, which are highly respected in Africa.
Koffi formed the Quartier Latin International band and has released numerous successful albums like “V12” and “Effrakata.” He is also famous for his bold fashion style and significant influence on Congolese culture.
Didi-Stone’s mother, Alaine, on the other hand, is a former model and remains less in the public eye compared to her husband, Koffi.
How Didi-Stone Found Herself in the Fashion Industry
Growing up, she was majorly influenced by her father’s flamboyant fashion sense (you know what to expect from a dandy of Congo) and her mother’s career background as a former model.
As per Wikipedia, Didi-Stone began her journey in the fashion industry at 15 when a recruiter spotted her on the street. She ventured into photo shoots and runway shows, initially signing with the Next agency, then transitioning to Metropolitan, Elite, and eventually Ford Model.
By 16, the young model was already seen on Vogue Magazine. Since then, Didi-Stone has been featured in many magazines and has worked with top brands like Sportsmax, GCDS, Casadei, Max Mara, WDD, Versace, Fendi, and more.
Didi-Stone Modeling Resume
In 2020, Didi-Stone became the L’Oréal Paris Ambassador for Franch — a gig that further elevated the model’s career. Didi couldn’t hold her excitement to share the news with her social media fans and just after she dropped the announcement, an affirmation to her tweet was a proud daddy moment from her father — Koffi Olomide — who wrote, “I am happy to announce that my daughter Didi-Stone is now a L’Oréal Paris Ambassador for France.
Fast forward to 2022, the French-Congolese model was also named the National Ambassador for UNICEF in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This appointment, announced on International Women’s Day, came with specific missions, which empowered Didi-Stone to advocate for children’s rights in the DRC and Africa, particularly addressing challenges like child marriage.
She is the Face of Wax Textile Brand, Vlisco
In 2023, Didi-Stone collaborated with Vlisco Hollandaise in Senegal as an ambassador for the launch of their satin royal fabric, designing stunning outfits for women.
By combining Vlisco’s high-quality satin fabric with their unique in-house designs, they achieved finesse, elegance, and exclusivity in the collection. Satin Royal draws inspiration from contemporary African life, blending cultural heritage with futuristic style. Didi-Stone’s cosmopolitan charm, bridging local roots with a global lifestyle, made her the perfect fit for introducing Satin Royal to the world.
And She’s Proud of Her Country of Origin
On June 2, 2024, the Congolese Model shared on her Instagram that she’s been selected as part of Forbes Africa’s 30 under 30 list, a feat she dedicated to her country of Origin.
In her words, “It is with immense humility and infinite gratitude that I share this wonderful news: being highlighted on the cover of Forbes Africa and selected among the 30 under 30. What an indescribable honor. This success goes far beyond a simple professional recognition. It recognizes all the sacrifices and efforts devoted to the realization of my dreams. It is a validation of the importance of investing fully in one’s aspirations.”
“Furthermore, I am proud to represent my country of origin, the Democratic Republic of Congo, as well as my generation on such a prestigious platform. To everyone who believed in me, supported me, and inspired me, this success is as much yours as it is mine. From the bottom of my heart, thank you,” she went on to say.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Didi-Stone has always given us quite a pleasant sensation with her public appearances. By simply scrolling through her Instagram page, it’s evident where her style preferences lie. Read on to discover our top picks of her most memorable looks:
Didi-Stone at Cannes Festival 2024
At the 77th annual Cannes Film Festival, she dazzled on the red carpet in a stunning black gown, featuring a dramatic spiral bodice and an elegant trailing cape.
Didi at Atlantis The Royal in Dubai
In January 2023, Didi-Stone Olomide, graced the Grand Reveal of Atlantis The Royal and Beyonce’s private concert in Dubai. She wore a stunning mermaid dress made from Ankara prints.
Didi-Stone at GQ Men of the Year Awards
The model made a stunning appearance at the GQ MOY Awards in December 2023, adorned in a striking black and white ensemble. Her white top, reminiscent of 80s fashion, featured spirals of the same fabric elegantly wrapped around her breasts, complemented by a flowing black skirt with thigh-high slit.
Didi-Stone at Cannes Red Carpet with FentyBeauty
Didi-Stone graced the red carpet of the May-December 2023 Cannes Festival alongside the Fenty Beauty family, donning a custom-made black gown. The dress featured incredibly lengthy sleeves that draped down her arms like a flowing train.
Didi-Stone at Fashion Trust Arabia 2022
The stunning Didi-Stone graced Fashion Trust Arabia 2022 in a formal gown from Tony Ward’s Fall/Winter 2022/23 couture collection. She wore a black voluminous gown with delicately folded ruffles cascading down from the waist, creating an elegant and dramatic look.
