How this Nigerian designer, Titilayo Amoo, founder of RTW_by_TeeTee is redefining ready-to-wear fashion with African heritage and modern flair
RTW_by_Teetee is a fashion brand inspired by African heritage and vibrant self-expression. Founded by Titilayo Amoo, the brand celebrates boldness, confidence, and individuality through African-inspired ready-to-wear clothing.
From her love for Ankara and Adire fabrics to her passion for storytelling through design, Titilayo’s journey is a vibrant fusion of culture, creativity, and courage. Her story is one of resilience and artistic rebirth, proof that fashion can be more than style; it can be a statement of identity.
Please introduce yourself and your background
My name is Titilayo, the founder of RTW_by_Teetee. My journey into fashion started in 2019 when I fell in love with designing and sewing. Growing up in Nigeria, I was surrounded by the rich beauty of African prints, Ankara, Adire, and other fabrics that tell stories of who we are.
What truly sparked my journey was my desire for individuality. I’ve always loved wearing unique pieces, and I wasn’t satisfied with others sewing for me. So, I picked up a sewing machine and began creating my own designs, blending tradition with a modern twist.
In 2022, I moved to the UK to study, and while the experience was exciting, it came with its challenges. Being in a new country felt isolating at first. My sewing machine became more than just a creative tool; it became my escape, my connection to home, and my bridge to sharing African culture with the world.
Tell us about your brand. How did RTW_by_Teetee start?
RTW_by_Teetee officially started as a creative passion project, a way to express my individuality and love for African culture. “RTW” stands for ready-to-wear, and “Teetee” is a nickname derived from my name, Titilayo, which means “eternal joy” in Yoruba. The name reflects my personal journey and the happiness I find in creating designs that empower others to express themselves boldly.
From its humble beginnings in 2019, the brand has grown into a celebration of African creativity and craftsmanship. Each piece I design is meant to inspire confidence while staying true to the cultural stories embedded in every fabric.
How did you come up with the brand name RTW_by_Teetee, and what does it represent?
Like I said earlier, the name RTW_by_Teetee is deeply personal. “Teetee” reflects my name and the essence of joy that drives my creativity. The “RTW” stands for ready-to-wear, which embodies my mission to make African-inspired pieces that are stylish, accessible, and versatile.
Together, the name represents more than fashion; it’s about identity, heritage, and expression. Every collection is designed to make people feel bold, confident, and connected to something meaningful.
What makes RTW_by_Teetee stand out?
What sets RTW_by_Teetee apart is its seamless blend of African heritage and modern design. I celebrate the beauty of fabrics like Ankara and Adire, infusing them into contemporary silhouettes that appeal to the bold and confident.
Each piece tells a story, crafted with care, designed with authenticity, and made to be versatile for everyday wear or special occasions. It’s not just about fashion; it’s about sharing culture through creativity.
Where do you draw inspiration for your designs?
My inspiration comes from my Nigerian roots, the vibrant colours, the bold patterns, and the cultural richness of African prints. Growing up, I was surrounded by Adire and Ankara fabrics, each one carrying its own history and meaning.
These prints aren’t just textiles; they’re art forms. They symbolise identity, pride, and community. Every design I create is a love letter to that heritage, reimagined for the modern world.
What is your most popular product, and why does it resonate with people?
The Adire bomber jacket has become my signature piece. It’s a perfect example of tradition meeting modernity. Adire fabric carries the deep artistry of African craftsmanship, while the bomber jacket silhouette gives it a fresh, global appeal.
Each jacket is unique, a wearable piece of art that makes the wearer stand out while staying connected to their roots. My customers love that it’s bold, stylish, and effortlessly tells a story.
What challenges have you faced in your business journey?
One of the biggest challenges was starting afresh in a new environment after moving to the UK. I didn’t have a network or an audience, and there were moments of doubt. To stay grounded, I turned to sewing. Creating became my therapy, my escape, and my way of finding community through fashion.
Navigating the business side: marketing, branding, and audience building, was another learning curve. But through consistency, social media, and self-education, I’ve grown step by step. Each obstacle has shaped me into a stronger entrepreneur.
How has your cultural background influenced your brand?
My heritage is the heartbeat of RTW_by_Teetee. Every design celebrates African culture, from the fabrics to the storytelling behind them. Moving to the UK only deepened my appreciation for my roots—it pushed me to share my culture more intentionally.
Each collection is a reflection of where I come from, reminding me that fashion isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about preserving legacy.
What milestones are you most proud of?
One of my proudest moments has been showcasing my work at various pop-up markets in the UK. Seeing people from all backgrounds fall in love with African-inspired designs has been incredibly rewarding.
Each event is more than just a sales opportunity; it’s a cultural exchange. Watching people light up as they wear my designs reminds me why I started: to share joy, heritage, and confidence through fashion.
What’s next for RTW_by_Teetee?
The future is bright! I’m currently preparing for my 2025 Summit Collection Launch, a bold new line that will showcase African prints in modern, expressive ways.
In the long term, my goal is to take RTW_by_Teetee global, collaborating with other creatives, exploring new markets, and building a fashion movement that celebrates African heritage and individuality. Ultimately, I want the brand to be more than a label. I want it to be a statement of identity, culture, and pride.
What’s one thing people would be surprised to learn about you?
Many people don’t believe it when I say I sew all the pieces myself! Every stitch carries my personal touch. If I weren’t in fashion, I’d probably still be in a creative field; maybe interior or graphic design, because creativity is at the core of who I am.
If you could give one piece of advice to aspiring entrepreneurs, what would it be?
Stay authentic to your roots. Be consistent, keep learning, and don’t shy away from challenges. Growth happens when you step out of your comfort zone.
Fashion and entrepreneurship as a whole aren’t just about creating; it’s about believing in your story enough to share it with the world.
Connect with RTW_by_Teetee
Instagram: @rtw_by_teetee
The BLAQ ESSENCE Philosophy: Empowerment Through Craftsmanship
