As the fashion world evolves and innovates daily, young entrepreneurs have taken the sphere by storm with new methods and revolution as Nigeria competes with her counterparts around the world. One of these new innovators is Modupe Ajisegbede, a trained computer engineer who is currently the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Dimples Fashion Et Al and AMABRIDE Bridal Home. In this chat with Newsafresh.com, the Babcock University graduate and award-winning entrepreneur speaks about her passion for fashion, her style, challenges and other issues.
Passion for fashion
I actually learnt sewing in 2002 before I went to university. I wanted to take it as a hobby but the Nigerian factor kicked in, so I went into it fully in 2011 with the creation of Dimples Fashion Et Al. Subsequently, AMABRIDE Bridal Home was created. Since then, we have been moving forward by the grace of God with clients from both Nigeria and abroad.
My computer engineering knowledge is however not a waste as it has given me an edge and helps in day-to-day fashion innovation.
Meanwhile, the experience has been quite dynamic because of its good and bad sides. But I give glory to God today because the business is picking up and we have a brand name to protect, while people are appreciating our work and God is expanding us.
Role model
My fashion career started as a hobby and latter developed into full entrepreneurship. I didn’t have a role model, I just used my talent through inspiration from God and the Holy Spirit. However, in recent times, Tope Olanre Alade of Ibile Vogue has been my mentor.
Challenges
The challenge posed by manpower is the first because in our line of business, it is very difficult to do it alone. However, fashion business usually starts with one person, and when demands increase, you employ people.
I used to go to the market to source for fabrics, then do the cutting and sewing; but over time, I was able to bring other people on board to do the job. Also, it took some time before people began patronising and even trusting the brand.
Another major challenge is electricity because of the amount we spend on generating sets, fuel and general maintenance.
Style
I ventured into bridal design because that is where my creativity is best expressed. If I restrict myself to ankara, I wouldn’t have to innovate and expand my knowledge horizon.
Naturally, every bride wants to look exquisite and unique on her wedding day, so due to this mindset, we have to raise the bar to give an experience they will cherish forever. Because a wedding is normally a once-in-a-lifetime event, we do our best to please the bride. If you can please a bride, I don’t see any other person you cannot please.
That uniqueness then revolves around our ability to avoid disappointing clients. I really don’t like disappointing people and I think that stands me out. If I’m unable to deliver on the agreed date, I would call the clients earlier so we can both be on the same page. However, this would not happen if the agreed date is a day to the wedding or the wedding day because that is not forgivable.
Generally, I love to work with crepe because it is one fabric that is very flexible and very easy to manoeuvre. There is hardly any design you cannot come out with crepe. You can use it to make a formal or casual wear.
Ultimately, God’s factor makes us stand out because he gives the inspiration and makes the process easier than expected.
Innovation and replication
As I said earlier, my first source of inspiration is God and the Holy Spirit. Most of the time, God gives me inspiration through dreams. I also get inspired by other people’s designs.
I believe there is no new thing in fashion because everything is just revolving and evolving. When I bring out a design through inspiration or replication and improvement, it is usually neat, and I think that is one of the things that make me stand out. I don’t believe it is only the exterior that should be neat, the interior too should be neat.
I really believe nobody has any right to claim any design because it is possible for two designers to have the same inspiration. Even if you are the first person to create a designer and a client sees it and likes it, she can take it to her tailor to make it for her. The designer will have no choice but to give her what she wants.
Competition
My mother taught me that competition is part of life, so I see competition as healthy. I don’t allow it to limit me as I won’t say because someone is doing something, I won’t do it so they won’t say I copied them.
I was brought here by divine providence, so if someone wants to copy what I am doing, no problem. The sky is wide enough for all birds to fly and everyone will have their clients.
I have also discovered that an average Nigerian woman has five or six tailors just because what they are looking for in Tailor A is different from that of B, C and others. This simply means that you should do your best and leave the rest to God.
Business vs home
My life as a fashion designer, mother and wife couldn’t have been possible without God and the support of my adorable husband. He makes it easy for me to be his wife and mother of our children. However, I try as much as possible to make out time for my home against all odds.
Awards
To the Glory of God, I received the Heritage Award for Designer of the Year in 2007 and City People Award for Best Upcoming Bridal Brand in 2019.
Advice to upcoming talents
To start a fashion business, you need two things: a regular machine and neighbours/friends you can sew for. At the initial stage, you don’t need money or a shop to start a fashion business. Once you start sewing and improving in innovation and competence, referrals begin to come your way.
I always tell my students that it is not enough to say you are good at what you do or you are a good fashion designer. It takes dexterity and doggedness to succeed because the industry will stretch you to your limit.
If you have passion, you will succeed in this field because before you can get the juice out of the fruit, you have to squeeze it hard. If you don’t have this requirement, you will lose interest and drop out.
Another thing you need is patience. It takes a lot of patience to succeed in the industry because you can try your best for a dress and the client would still complain.