"This clothing affirms that I am present," - Tems on her great Oscars attire

Tems discussed attending the Oscars and the dress selection process in an interview with Bazaar. Temilade "Tems" Openiyi, a Grammy Award-winning musician from Nigeria, made a splash at the 2023 Oscars with her white outfit. She was undoubtedly one of the Oscars' highlights and most talked-about moments, as many people online criticized her for obstructing others' views while Nigerians rallied to her defense. “Two years ago, I would've said no to this dress," Tems said to Bazaar. "But it's my first Oscars — I am going to go all out. I wanted to make the most of the day. The dress is also my way of celebrating my work and the people around me, celebrating my country, and celebrating the people that are rooting for me. This dress says 'Yes, yes, I am here!'"