The Nigerian Fashion industry is lucrative, Ifeyinwa Olumba posit that it has witnessed great transformation in recent years, many of the veteran Nigerian fashion designers doing their things and unveiling different designs for Nigerians. This Transformation is what gave birth to Opulent Afrique Stitches, owned by beautiful and Elegant Ifeyinwa Olumba. In this interview with Eric Olusesan, she reveals how the journey has been so far.
Why fashion?
I went into fashion with a heavy heart to make creativity worthwhile. I needed to do something extra.
How was your growing up years?
My growing up years have been a pleasant one by the grace of God and the people around me.
If not fashion what else would you do?
I never gave it a second thought, what to do if not fashion because I so much love what am doing.
How would you rate our fashion industry?
Our fashion industry honestly is doing awesomely well, yea most of them can do well in the international market.
What basic challenges do you face as a fashion designer?
New inventories, fashion changes per seconds. Trying to meet up with what is trending is quite challenging.
How do you give back to the society?
I Give back to the society by helping the less privileged and i also teach in skill acquisition programmes.
How did you feel following your first sewing experience?
The feeling I got following my first sewing experience is an unforgettable one. Full of anxiety alongside fulfilment
The fashion market seems saturated, how do you intend to keep afloat?
I intend to keep afloat by getting more upgraded, adding uniqueness in what I do and keeping to my words in satisfying my target market.
Would you say fashion is lucrative enough for you?
Fashion is lucrative indeed because people want to look good and majority is ready to spend to look good to their satisfaction and that puts money into designers purse.
How do you define your style?
I define my style by being creative enough. Not copying exactly as it appears if need be it.
How do you source for your fabrics?
I source for fabrics in the market, or fabric shops.
Do you have Nigerian designers that inspire you?
Yes, I get inspired by the work done by Styletemple, Valisimo. B Africana, etc
Do you consider any fashion item indispensable?
No fashion item is indispensable because we can easily improvise.
What is your ready-to-go outfit?
My ready to go outfit is a top and trouser. Well-arranged dress too.
What determines what you wear?
What determines what I wear is the event am to attend.