Abdul Ademola is a professional fashion designer known for his impeccable tailoring and sophisticated designs. 

He is the face behind the iconic fashion brand, Signatures by L’apparella.

Ademola grew up creatively challenged by his father who is a highly skilled interior decorator.

The Business Management graduate of Olabisi Onabanjo University with First Class Honour, knew right from graduation that his calling was in the needle and thread business. 

Proudly a self-taught designer who soared  with the guidance of his two sisters who are fashion enthusiasts, the fashion entrepreneur has never relented in his pursuit of success.

In this exclusive interview with Allure Vanguard, Abdul Ademola sheds light on his latest collection; The Sojourner, his design inspiration and future plans for Signatures by L’apparella.

Excerpt;

How long have you been in fashion business?

I have been in the fashion business for almost a decade officially. I started fashion while in the University where I made outfits for my colleagues after they saw what I made for myself and that’s how we got going.

What inspired the brand, Signatures by L’apparella?

The Signatures by L’apparella brand has its inspiration deeply rooted in the rich and diverse culture of African descent. Drawing inspiration from the continent’s vibrant colors, symbols, patterns, and traditions, aiming to not only showcase but also celebrate the beauty of African craftsmanship. SBL’s commitment is to preserving the authenticity of African culture and art and translating it into contemporary fashion that resonates globally.

We are passionate about promoting cultural diversity, artful modernization, skill retention, and bridging the gap between traditional African aesthetics and modern fashion trends. The brand was established out of a desire to create a unique niche in the fashion industry by acknowledging and celebrating African heritage through innovative and stylish designs.

How did you come up with the brand name?

The Brand name is a combination of different elements and global ideologies and as such bears a greater meaning and importance to the founders. 

L’apparella means the clothier while The Signatures shows uniqueness in the deliverables such as products and services offered to the consumer through the brand. 

You just released a new collection, can you tell us about it?

In a world where fashion is not just about what you wear, but the story it tells, Signatures by L’apparella proudly presents “The Sojourner” collection—an ode to the adventurous spirit and the essence of embracing the journey ahead with style and grace.

 “The Sojourner” encapsulates the spirit of a traveler, weaving a narrative of exploration, resilience, and the comfort found in the journey itself. Each piece in this collection is a testament to the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship, authenticity, and the celebration of diverse cultures.

How affordable are they? 

Absolutely! The affordability of a fashion collection depends on various factors, including the materials used, production methods, and the brand’s overall pricing strategy. Signatures by L’apparella can certainly prioritize making “The Sojourner” collection accessible to a broader audience without compromising on quality and style.

At Signatures by L’apparella, we believe that fashion should be inclusive and accessible to all. With ‘The Sojourner’ collection, we are committed to offering high-quality, stylish pieces at affordable price points. We carefully consider the materials and production processes to ensure that our collection remains accessible to a diverse range of individuals who share our passion for fashion and adventure. It’s our way of making the spirit of the sojourner available to everyone, inviting you to embark on a stylish journey without breaking the bank.

What’s your creative process?

Inspiration and Conceptualization – MoodBoard Creation – Design development and prototyping – Material selection and acquisition – Pattern drafting and sample production – Branding and storytelling – Launch of collection – Feedback and iteration.

Who’s the ideal L’apparella Man ?

The ideal L’apparella man is a sophisticated and culturally savvy individual with a modern and global outlook. Embracing diversity and appreciating craftsmanship, he effortlessly blends laid-back elegance with fashion-forward choices. Versatile in his lifestyle, he seamlessly transitions from professional settings to cultural events. The L’apparella man values individuality, confidently expressing his unique personality through a wardrobe that reflects his love for travel and cultural exploration. He is not just a consumer but an ambassador of the brand’s commitment to celebrating traditions while embracing contemporary style.

What are the grand plans for Signatures by L’apparella?

Signatures by L’apparella envisions a future marked by a continued celebration of diverse cultures in fashion collections, embracing affordability through strategic initiatives, integrating sustainable practices in production, leveraging digital innovation for seamless online experiences, exploring global expansion opportunities, fostering a sense of community through inclusive marketing campaigns, and experimenting with innovative retail concepts—all to reinforce the brand’s commitment to cultural appreciation, accessibility, sustainability, and innovation while creating a memorable and engaging experience for a global audience.

Below are photos from The Sojourner’ collection