Fashionpreneur and founder of the wave making Vanstace Apparel, Toyin Akindele, has a vision to turn her fashion outfit into a global brand in the next five years.
Growing up as a girl child, the fast rising fashion designer was always in love with colours and textures, and this informed her urge for creative expression that prompted her to pursue a career in the haute couture industry.
I was always fascinated by colours and textures as a child. Also, I loved to express myself through clothing, she reminisced.
As a start-up, building a new enterprise can be overwhelming, especially in a challenging environment like Nigeria.
But with Akindeles raw determination, she was able to break the odds, with the inspiration from mentors and creative forces like Lisa Folawiyo and Duro Olowu.
“Some local and foreign designers inspire me. I particularly admire designers like Lisa Folawiyo and Duro Olowu for their cultural diversity and for fusing their designs with modern aesthetics. I equally derive inspiration from traditional Nigerian fabrics, patterns and diverse art forms, she remarked.
Toyin Akindele believes that people have their preferences when it comes to fashion. In fact, for her, fashion is a powerful form of self-expression that allows individuals to depict their personality, culture and creativity. And so, she wouldnt be caught wearing anything that doesnt glorify God or promotes unethical practices.
“My fashion style is simple but classy. I detest any apparel that promotes unethical practices or brings harm to animals,” she noted.
What separates Vanstace Apparel from the pack is its celebration of Nigerian culture through contemporary fashion. The creative brand is equally unique for incorporating traditional fabrics and techniques into its modern, stylish designs.
According to Akindele, patience is her watchword when dealing with a difficult client. The fashion icon, however, maintained that she offers alternative solutions to resolve critical issues with her clientele.
I try as much as possible to find a common ground after listening to the clients. I also empathize with their perspectives and ensure that the issues raised are attended to,” she remarked.
While admitting that her fashion journey has been rewarding and challenging, Akindele gazed into the future and declared that in the next five to 10 years Vanstace Apparel will conquer the world of fashion.
“In the next five to 10 years, we are going to expand our reach globally. Aside empowering local artisans, we see our brand extending the frontiers of African fashion by collaborating with international designers,” she declared.
Toyin Akindele has identified some of the problems militating against the growth of the Nigerian fashion industry.
According to her, they include infrastructural deficits, lack of high quality materials, price fluctuations, and poor customers awareness about the value of locally made materials.
The award winning fashionista, who has showcased her collection at prestigious fashion events in the country, urged the government to look into the problems of the industry and provide lasting solutions.