By Christy Anyanwu
Right from childhood, Ifedolapo Olanike Oladipo, founder and brain behind the fast rising clothing line, Apparel by Empress was enthralled by the wondrous world of the art.
It was this seed of creativity sown as a child that inspired her career in fashion design as an adult. She declared, “I am a fashion professional whose lifelong journey of self-expression, creativity and storytelling from a young age has been enamoured by the transformative power of clothing, and the way it can empower individuals to express their unique identities.”
As a fashionista, what fascinates Oladipo is the rich tapestry of cultural influences, vibrant colours and intricate patterns of Nigerian textiles; and this has deeply shaped her aesthetic sensibilities and design philosophy.
Armed with Master’s degrees in French and International Relations, Ifedolapo Oladipo’s journey in fashion began with a fascination for sketching and creating garments from fabric scraps, a passion that ultimately led her to learn more about the trade.
On what distinguishes her fashion house from the competition, Oladipo said, “Apparel by Empress is a fashion brand that embodies sophistication, elegance and empowerment. Our brand is committed to creating luxurious yet accessible clothing that celebrates the modern woman’s strength and individuality with a touch of essence, which recognises history and heritage.”
As a creative buff, the talented fashion designer derives inspiration from nature, fashion history, arts and culture, as well as personal experiences and emotions; and above all, technology and innovation.
“I also find inspiration in the colours, textures and patterns found in the natural world. From the intricate patterns of leaves to the vibrant hues of flowers, nature provides endless inspiration for creative designs,” she added.
For mentorship, Oladipo admires esteemed Nigerian fashion designers who have achieved success and recognition in the industry. But on the global scene, she adores iconic designers who revolutionised women’s fashion with their timeless creations. They include those whose avant-garde designs and theatrical runway shows continue to inspire and influence designers worldwide.
The fashionpreneur is thrilled whenever she sees her creative vision crystalizes into tangible garments, whether on runways, in photo shoots or worn by customers. Positive feedback from the clients and referrals also give her incredible joy.
However, to Ifedolapo Oladipo, the industry is bedeviled by a litany of infrastructural and logistical problems, which emanate as a result of poor road networks, unreliable electricity supply, and inadequate transportation systems. She added that funding, market saturation and current downturn in the economy also form part of the challenges.
But despite these obstacles, Oladipo believes that Nigeria’s fashion industry offers numerous opportunities for growth and success, including “a large and increasingly affluent consumer base, growing interest in African fashion both domestically and internationally, and a rich cultural heritage that serves as a source of inspiration for designers. Overcoming these challenges often requires resilience, creativity, and strategic planning.”
As a parting shot to up and coming fashion designers, the fashionista counseled them to hone their craft, invest time and effort into developing their skills.
“Take courses, attend workshops, and continuously practice and refine your craft to improve your technical abilities and creative vision,” she volunteered. “Also, define what sets your brand apart and develop a distinct aesthetic and brand identity that resonates with your target audience.”