Meet The Founder of Aso Ibile Mi [Exclusive Interview]

Let’s meet the hardworking female creative entrepreneur who is in the business of creating Afrocentric Pre-eminent ready to wear outfits for women of all class.

Please introduce yourself and your background:

My name is Abiru Islamiyat Adewunmi, I am the Fashion Creative Director behind AIM AFROCENTRIC CLOTHINGS otherwise known as AŞO ÌBÍLĘ MÌ. I studied Computer Science at the Polytechnic of Ife while at the same time did a diploma course in Fashion Designing, as well as a few months solid course in Textile Art design & Shirt Customization with Harpeez’art Clothings in Ile Ife, Osun State. I have been in the business of Adire textile design since 2013 but properly started making a living out of it in the year 2021.

Tell us about your work. How did your company start?

I worked for several years as a Data Analyst with a Leading Telecommunication Company in Nigeria. While working as a white collar jobber and also working from home due to the Covid19 Pandemic, I started running my business of Creating Afrocentric Pre-eminent Ready to Wear Outfits for women of all Class, modern heritage clothing locally made out of Indigenous Handmade Fabrics such as Adire & Aso Oke.

This is a business I had attempted to build a few times earlier but failed due to lack of consistency, Cash flow and lack of total commitment to the business. I resigned from my 8 to 5 Job after 9 months in my business so as to input more effort to grow, learn, preserve and promote the African Cultural Heritage across the globe, which is the main goal of this brand.

How did you come about the brand name and what does it mean?

My brand name AŞO ÌBÍLĘ MÌ meaning “My heritage clothing” in English was the first thing that came to mind as soon as I started drawing a business plan. The term was drawn from the Vision of the brand, which is to preserve and promote the African Cultural Heritage. The Heritage we are trying to promote by making sure we create more awareness of out Locally-made clothing home and abroad. The aim which is to put our Heritage on the Global Mark.

What is your niche and how did you know it was a market to get into

Unique innovation and outstanding creativity of using basically Handmade Fabrics to create extraordinary pieces is a core model that set this business apart. African Traditionally made Fabrics are very underrated, it has become a necessity to awaken it and push it forward for the whole wide world to see its beauty. A lot of people now appreciate these African clothing that they could pay a million just to get these clothing readily made for them.

Where do you get the inspiration for your products?

The inspirations for my products are gotten from Arts and ages stories about heroines and Olden days clothing. Day to day inspirations are gotten from everyday lifestyle and evolving modern tastes of modern women.

Can you remember one of the first products you made? What makes it memorable?

One of the first products we designed was Aje Kimono, a Long Jacket made with a combination of Aso Oke and an Adire fabric that has a pattern of Cowry (Cowry traditionally insinuate wealth). The fabric has since been changed because of the inconsistency in it’s color, we were unable to perfect our dye combination for the specific fabric.

It was our best selling from the Launch date of the business and has been the selling heavily ever since (this might be due to its very different look that set it apart from other random Kimonos in the market).

What are some of the challenges you face in your business?

The main challenge faced day to day in my business is the fact that Handmade Fabrics, especially Adire are now been massively replicated by other countries and sold back to our people at a very cheap rate. This is very bad for my business because some person out of ignorant might feel that my products are too expensive compare to the printed clothing sold to them at cheaper rate. The Government should do better in this aspect please, for how long do we import the items we can produce on our own? Sadly, the fabrics used in producing even the original handmade Indigenous clothing we use are also imported, making it difficult for a low class citizen to afford.

Do you have any regrets venturing into this line of business?

My only regret since I started this business is that I did not start on time. I mean, I had a solid 8years experience before I started making money out of it. If I started a long time ago, my business would have grown farther than where it is now.

What is your most popular product?

My most popular product is ‘Aje Kimono’ set, a bestseller back to back for couple of months now.

To what extent do you draw upon your Nigerian (African) heritage for your work?

The Heritage is what I sell. The aim is to take African Heritage global.

What are some of your short term and long term goals, both in your business and life in general?

My main Goal is to preserve and promote the African Cultural Heritage while making an ends meet out of it. My vision is to make sure that in the next 10 years, foreign outfits are 95% eradicated from our Continent and our Locally-made outfits takes place and becomes affordable.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

I’m a Fashion Designer, a Textile Art Designer, A Data Analyst and a Fashion Creative Designer. This are rear talents to be processed by just an individual.

What profession would you be in if you weren’t in this Industry?

I would be a Data analyst.

If you could give one piece of advice to anyone who wants to start their own business in your industry, what would it be?

Look before you leap, stay consistent and be willing to take huge risks

Aso ibile mi attire meet the founder of aso ibile mi
Aso ibile mi attire meet the founder of aso ibile mi

There you have it. An exclusive interview with the Founder of Aso Ibile Mi. To connect with her, you can follow her via:

Instagram: Adirestylesng

WhatsApp: +234 903 388 3764

 

Meet the Founder of Mooie Kraft [Exclusive Interview]

Meet the Founder of Mooie Kraft

In an exclusive interview, we get to meet the Founder of Mooie Kraft. Ndedigwe Mary Chinaza is a resourceful and talented entrepreneur, who has successfully infused fashion with African prints.

Meet the Founder of Mooie Kraft [Exclusive Interview]
Ndedigwe Mary Chinaza – Founder of Mooie Kraft
*To know more about the products, simply click on the images*
Please introduce yourself and your background.

My name is Ndedigwe Mary Chinaza, I’m a graduate of computer science from Crawford University, I am from Nnewi South local government Anambra state.

Tell us about your work and how did your company start?

My love for bag making drove me into bag making. I started MOOIE KRAFT in 2020 and it’s been an amazing journey so far. MOOIE KRAFT  is not just about bag making but we are also into the making of beautiful accessories with our African prints, leather works such as belts and we also make top-notch souvenirs for events and parties.

Ankara foldable hand-fan by Mooie Kraft
Ankara foldable hand-fan
How did you come about the name and what does it mean?

Mooie is gotten from a Dutch word that means beautiful, pretty and fine. So I wanted a name that represents everything that my brand signifies. with our name, you should know what to expect from us. [Winks].

What is your niche and how did you know it was a market to get into?

Producing beautiful bags, belts and accessories for both males, females and also children. we are partially for everybody.

Ankara themed Hoops earrings by Mooie Kraft
Ankara themed Hoops earrings

Mooie chain BagMooie Kraft chain Bag

Where do you get the inspiration for your products?

Everything around me. I also work with customers descriptions.

Can you remember one of the first products you made? What makes it memorable?

Yes of cos, it was an Ankara bag I made for myself, it was memorable because I made it out of little/ no knowledge about bag making.

African print mixed laptop bag by Mooie Kraft
African print mixed laptop bag
What are some of the challenges you face in your business?

Cost of production is one of the major challenges we are facing, material sourcing is another challenge we are facing, the high prices of leatherworking tools to achieve proper finishing of the leather productions.

Do you have any regrets about venturing into this line of business?

NEVER. Not at all ….lol

What is your most popular product?

Right now our Genuine Reversible belt is really selling fast now. And our African mix laptop bag.

Genuine leather Reversible belt by the founder of Mooie KraftGenuine leather Reversible belt

This genuine leather reversible belt is a 2 faced belt. You have the chance to get 2 different colors of your choice in 1 belt.
To what extent do you draw upon your Nigerian (African) heritage for your work?

In most of our signature products, we used our African print/ indigenous fabric to produce them.

Ankara themed flipflop by Mooie Kraft
Ankara themed flipflop
What are some of your short term and long term goals, both in your business and life in general?

My short term goal is for Mooie kraft to be able to reach out to many people across the world and collaborate with many big fashion brands,

My long term goal is for Mooie kraft to have my dream fashion studio with different branches across the world, empower both young and adults, create jobs opportunity for people.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

 I love to bake and cook for fun

What profession would you be in if you weren’t in this industry?

I would probably be a baker (hahahaha)

What is success to you?

Success to me is achieving all my dreams come true and impacting my knowledge and skills in society.

Mooie Kraft bag
Mooie Kraft Cross bag
Waist bag by Mooie Kraft
Waist bag
If you could give one piece of advice to anyone who wants to start their own business in your industry, what would it be?

I would advise the person should make proper research about everything especially when the person has zero knowledge about the business.

Who and what has been your greatest source of inspiration?

God almighty, my family, my friends and everyone that has patronized my brand. You all are my greatest inspiration.

Thank you for having this interview. It was indeed a pleasure to meet with this bubbly personality – Ndedigwe Mary Chinaza.

There you have it. An exclusive interview with the Founder of Mooie Kraft. To connect with her, you can follow her via:

Instagram: mooie.kraft

Facebook: Mooie Kraft

WhatsApp: +234 810 063 0509

 

Interested in exhibiting & flash sales?

INTERESTED IN EXHIBITING?

Are you interested in exhibiting & flash sales? Well, you’re in for a treat.

It is our tradition to host an exhibition where attendees get the opportunity to buy quality Nigerian creative products on a large scale. Due to the Covid-19 restrictions, we decided to host a limited number of brands at a one of a kind offline and online shopping experience.

We will be hosting you physically at the venue and virtually at flash sales which will showcase quality fast-selling creative products and you can buy them at the click of a button.

The watchword at Bellafricana is Quality, to this effect; I can assure you of the availability of top-quality creative African-owned businesses at the flash sales.

The 4 focus categories for the exhibition are:
  • Arts & Crafts
  • Fashion
  • Health & Beauty
  • Home & Living
Limited slots for 20 brands only; BOOK NOW before it’s SOLD OUT.

Want to exhibit or take part in the flash sales? Or you know of any amazing creative/innovative product that falls within any of the aforementioned categories? Reach out to us at [email protected] and inform us (don’t wait too long) and we will get back to you within 24 hours. Or get them to simply register [see link below].

Here are some of the benefits of flash sales:
  1.     Access to New Market
  2.     Sales and New Contacts
  3.     Opportunity to Participate at future events/exhibitions
  4.     Gain Valuable Knowledge

Whether you’re selling, exhibiting or buying; this is one event you don’t want to miss.

Venue: Offline at the Event Venue – BWC HOTELS, 1228B Ahmadu Bello Way, Victoria Island, Lagos Nigeria (Opposite Eko Atlantic). And Online on Bellafricana Marketplace Website – www.bellafricanashop.com
Date: 29th & 30th October, 2021
Time: 10am – 4pm
Cost: Early Bird: 20,000 (for Bellafricana members), and 30, 000 (for non-members).
Late registration: 25,000 (for Bellafricana members ) and 35,000 (for non-members).
Register: aceawardsafrica.com/exhibit

Remember, only 20 slots are available. Hurry now!

 

Meet The Founder Of EONL (Exclusive Interview)

MEET THE FOUNDER - EONL

Eyiyemi-Olivia Rogbinyin, a verified member of Bellafricana, wears many hats, one of which is her passion for tailoring. She is a graduate of Architecture from the University of Jos with more than 25 years post experience in the fields of Architecture and Interior Design, Broadcasting as a Television and Radio presenter, Make-Overs and Dressmaking which she has a Passion for.

I am very excited to be introducing this amazing Founder and her brand to you. Keep reading to Meet the Founder of EONL (Exclusive Interview).

  • Please introduce yourself and your background

My name is Eyiyemi-Olivia Rogbinyin an architect, broadcaster, actor, tailor. 

  • Tell us about your work. How did your company start? 

I started tailoring professionally in the year 2000 after a short stint in broadcasting. leveraging on the gift of sewing my mum had helped hone almost 20years before. Having the idea to show off what else we could do with ankara fabrics apart from Boubous and iro and bubas

  • How did you come about the name and what does it mean? 

I started with Olivia concept (Olivia is my middle name) and registered EyiyemiOlivia Nigeria Limited in 2012 as a limited liability company.

  • What is your niche and how did you know it was a market to get into? 

Detailing, detailing, detailing. Finishing has to be one of the most underrated skills used by tailors. We say you can wear our clothes inside out. We also love to show our versatility with local fabrics.

  • Where do you get the inspiration for your products? 

Everywhere and Anywhere. Mostly though from The Holy Spirit 

  • Can you remember one of the first products you made? What makes it memorable?

We used aso oke to make a cropped top and long fitted skirt for twin sisters for a wedding. Nothing like that had been done in a long time. It literally shot us into the limelight. 

  • What are some of the challenges you face in your business? 

Maintaining clientele and being consistent with marketing. 

  • Do you have any regrets venturing into this line of business?

Not a single one.

  • What is your most popular product? 

Right now our Auta jogger pants. We’ve had a really good run with our Omorinsola jacket as well.

  • To what extent do you draw upon your Nigerian (African) heritage for your work?

That was the whole point of setting up the business and we are very passionate about using locally sourced indigenous fabrics for our garments.

  • What are some of your short term and long term goals, both in your business and life in general? 

That has changed over the years, now it is to impact those who are struggling in the industry and shorten the number of potential hot spots they will encounter. As for myself, I am working on my journey with getting to know My Father better and doing His will. 

  • What would people be surprised to learn about you? 

😂😂 I’m not sure there’s anything. I’m an open book.

  • What profession would you be in if you weren’t in this Industry? 

Already done a few. 

  • If you could give one piece of advice to anyone who wants to start their own business in your industry, what would it be? 

Understudy someone in the industry who’s willing to show you the ropes.

  • And finally, please share images of some of your work and tell us a little about each product

 

Auta Jogger Pants, POW Doodle t-shirt blinged or eco friendly hand painted

Auta Jogger Pants, POW Doodle tshirt blinged or eco friendly hand painted

Draping services for your photoshoots.
Don’t want the hassle of choosing fabric, designer, fittings etc. Be draped in the lushest fabrics and be guaranteed of unique styling, one you won’t find anywhere else.

Draping services for your photoshoots Draping services for your photoshoots

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Amarachi set chiffon top and micro pleated 34 length wide leg pants

Amarachi set chiffon top and micro pleated 34 length wide leg pants
Eyiyemi-Olivia Rogbinyin

And that is it from here, for more details about the brand, check out their Instagram page here: Eyiyemi Olivia Rogbinyin (@eyiyemiolivia) • Instagram photos and videos

EONL LOGO
EyiyemiOlivia Nigeria Limited

Meet The Founder Of EONL (Exclusive Interview).

 

Amluck Stitches- The Hub for Top Quality, Bespoke Fashion

Nuqi Blazer by Amluck stitches

 

 

What’s that one thing that endears you to a fashion brand? Is it the quality of their work, their versatility, their unique styles, or their affordability? If you have ticked one or more of these options, then you’ll definitely love Amluck Stitches. Trust Bellafricana to provide you with the best, quality fashion pieces.

They are a “Unisex brand that speaks Class & Uniqueness”.

Their ready-to-wear pieces are the best handmade illustration of bespoke fashion.

Keep scrolling to see some of our favorite pieces made by them.

Just before that, you need to follow Amluck Stitches on Social media. Check out their social media handles below:

Instagram: @Amluck Stitches

Facebook:  @Amluck Stitches

Now, let’s get started:

  1.  Unisex  Kaftans

Amluck Stitches Kaftans

 

Kaftans have a way of giving you that “daring, boss lady” feel. I think that’s why they’re all the rave now. That said, looking for Kaftans of  different patterns and styles? Then Amluck Stitches can hook you up.

Price: NGN 12,000.00

  1. Boubou Unusual

 

Amluck Stitches Boubou Fashion stylist in Nigeria

This dress is for the everyday woman who loves comfort, class and Elegance. Already picturing yourself in this piece? Me too! This is one that every woman should have. Don’t you think?

Price: NGN 10,000.00

 

  1. The Nuqi 2-Piece Set

 

Amluck Stitches Nuki 2-piece set

This set is very comfortable and chic, suitable for all events. Looking to turn heads? This two-piece is definitely the right choice.

Price: NGN 12,000.00

 

  1. Bespoke Party/ Evening dinner outfits

 

Looking to stand out at that event? Then let Amluck stitches help with that. You can choose your preferred fabric and style.

Price: NGN 15,000.00 (Fabric exclusive)

  1. The Nuqi Blazer

 

Nuqi Blazer by Amluck stitches

This is a must have high quality luxurious Blazer. The belt to properly cinch the waist, plus the dramatic sleeves? Definitely a keeper. It’s available in different colors, so you get the option to pick your favorite? Why haven’t you ordered yet?

Price: NGN 10,000.00

 

Seen something you like? Then click here to chat directly with a representative

Would you like to see more beautiful designs?  Click here to view the entire catalog of beautiful styles.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Have You Supported A Local Business in Nigeria Today? (Part 1)

Queen-Idia-print-mimiremi fabrics on bellafricana

Hi there, have you supported a Local Business in Nigeria today?! You know, there’s a lot of misconception surrounding local products in terms of its meeting up to International standards in terms of creativity and quality.

I am here to correct that misconception. Made in Africa products are beautiful, creative, and top quality. I’m not just saying this because I’m African. I’m saying this because I have proof. And I’ll share this proof with you.

So sit back, relax and enjoy these amazing products made in Nigeria (Africa):

  1. Food produce

a. Proudly Made-in-Nigeria Coffee

Happy Coffee pack on bellafricana

Presenting to you, tasty, rich made-in-Nigeria coffee by Happy Coffee Nigeria. Explore more here

b. Nourishing Meals for Babies

August-Secrets Meals on bellafricana

AugustSecrets is evolving to be the company from Africa, leading the cause for child nutrition with wholesome solutions. Explore more Here

c. Healthy Snacking Options

Lami-chinchin-choco on bellafricana

Lami Foods, the company that produces healthy snacks in a variety of  flavors is proudly made-in-Nigeria too. Check out more here

d. Tasty Pap Paste

Ologi.com Pap on bellafricana

Have you ever had pap that tastes and looks like yoghurt? Ologi pap is tasty and proudly made-in-Nigeria. Explore more here

e. Dried Beans Flour

adarexfoods-product-bean on bellafricana

Dried Beans Flour for the win, proudly made-in-Nigeria by AdarexFoods. Explore more here

f. Dried Fruit snacks and Powders

Lim lim dried fruits and powder on bellafricana blog

 

There is barely anything this Nigerian company cannot transform into powder. The powder alternatives contain the same amount of nutrients as the normal ones, and even last longer. Limlim Dried Fruits is the name. Explore more here

g. Quality herbs and teas

Kiolar-Honey on bellafricana

Kiolar Foods is your go-to for quality spices, herbs, and teas. Need to get more? Check them out here

See article: 7 Unique Gift Items For Women

Toks foods cassava flour on bellafricana blog

Toks foods is out to promote healthy meals all over Africa through our healthy foods. With their nutritious processed flours and grains (such as cassava flour, Ofada rice, etcetera), you’re guaranteed of top quality.

i. Processed food spices

Ady's Food Mart spices on bellafricana

From Crayfish to Chilli pepper, and lots more, Ady’s Food Mart provides cooking, shopping and delivery services to a wide clientele across Nigeria and the world where African dishes are appreciated.  Get the best of Ady’s food mart here

2. Hand Printed Fabric and Ready-to-wear pieces

  a.Hand-dyed Fabric

Asologe Adire Fabrics on Bellafricana

Presenting to you, hand dyed fabric pieces in several patterns and colors, courtesy Asologe Fashion House. Explore more here

b. Hand Painted fabric

Queen-Idia-print-mimiremi fabrics on bellafricana

Look very closely at these piece. Do you know they’re handpainted? Yes, Mimiremi Textiles makes the hand painted pieces with the a variety of patterns and styles. Explore more here

c. Children’s African Wear by Little Weavers

Little weavers Nigeria Bellafricana member

Little Weavers makes beautiful ready-to-wear pieces for kids and teenagers with African Fabric. Pretty isn’t it? Explore more here

d. Adire Tees

Dhoney-Adire oversized tees on bellafricana as a member

These Tees are pretty, aren’t they? Well, courtesy of Dhoney Nigeria, these oversized unisex tees are yours to keep, (and even gift that special one). Check out more beautiful Adire pieces here

e. Adire and Batik fabric

Adire by Teeny on bellafricana

 

Adire by Teeny specializes in handcrafted Adire and Batik. They also produce fabric souvenirs from their products. You should check them out. You’ll love what you see!

f. Batik Fabric 

House of bolts adire on bellafricana

The Bellafricana family has one of the best Batik fabric in Nigeria, and even beyond. That’s House of Bolt. Need some more convincing? Check them out here

Aren’t these creative local business in Nigeria all lovely? Yes! Made-in-Africa products are here to stay! And this is just the tip of the iceberg! We will be showcasing so many products from creative Indigenous brands which also happen to be Bellafricana Members too! Bellafricana marketplace is doing her part to promote and empower these local businesses. Will you also do your part by supporting and patronizing them too?

 

The AMVCAs: Creative styles by Made-in-Africa Brands

Yesterday was the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA), an award show dedicated to rewarding hard work and talent in the movie industry.

I watched some part of the show, at least long enough to see jaw-dropping red carpet looks by celebrities.

Most interesting is the fact that a lot of them were styled by Nigerian fashion designers, and as Bellafricana is a  lover of the creative and African, I couldn’t help but share some looks wit you.

Here’s bringing you some of the most creative looks on the red carpet, all styled by Nigerian Fashion designers.

1. Talk show host and actress, Nancy Isime in an Xtrabrideslagos (XBL) masterpiece

Nancy Isime by Medlin Boss

2. Actress, film maker and Entrepreneur, Mercy Aigbe in a stunning gown by Luminee

Mercy Aigbe in Luminee

 3. Actress, Venita Akpofure in Trishocouture

4. Actress, Sharon Ooja in Gorgeous piece by Somobysomo

5. Actress and Filmmaker, Adunni Ade in Luminee

6. Actress, Idinma Okojie in breathtaking piece by Mazelle studios

7. Actor, Elozonam in T.I Nathan

 

8. Content creator and Infuencer  Denola Grey in Mazelle studios
Denola Grey in Mazelle studios
9. Influencer and Entrepreneur Mike Edwards in David Wej

There you have it. What other creative style by Indigenous brands did we miss out? Kindly leave a comment below!

Looking for quality Boots made in Nigeria?

As far as footwears are concerned, boots always seem to get more work done than regular shoes. While shoes are busy arguing semantics in a boardroom, boots are out in the garage actually doing work.

Boots are relatively versatile, as they can suit both casual and formal styles and in addition to comfort, they also provide good support for the feet.

Over the years, a few things have been found to be the true points of attraction to quality boots – Craftsmanship, how long these brands have been making products, overall rebellion against cheap widely popular footwear that has no soul, no longevity, and no visual appeal.

Unfortunately, boot lovers have to resort to seeking for renown brands abroad and have to wait out long periods of time, and also pay outrageous shipping fees before these products can be delivered in their own country.

 

BootsbyMetal is a boots brand that not only prides in the fact that it is fast becoming the trademark for quality boots over the years, but also in the fact that it is made in Nigeria.

BootsbyMetal boasts of world class quality products and knows exactly what to consider when producing for all classes of customers.

All Sizes

One of the major concerns for people with under and beyond average-sized feet when considering boots is if their sizes are currently in stock. Nobody wants to get a pair of kicks that lacks or shoots a couple of inches because they can’t readily find their size. All sizes can be purchased readily from any of the retail stores and in very rare cases where you want something even more fitted and streamlined, you could opt for the Custom Build option.

Comfortable insoles

The insole is the inner part of the shoe that touches the sole of the foot. A good insole supports each part of the foot but remains flexible and adapts to the foot’s movement.

You can test for comfortable insoles by walking around, standing on the tip of your toes to see if your toes have enough space to stretch out without being pushed to the tip and top of the shoe.

These boots have been specially patterned to grip the heel just right so you can walk comfortably.

Flexibility

The flexibility of the outside and top of the boot are important, as those parts also affect comfort. Quality Boots must be flexible enough to bend slightly but not so much as to bend in half. Also, there is support for the arch section of the boots which not only enhances fluid movement but also helps maintain balance as well.

Black-leather-bootsbymetal-shoes-made-in-Nigeria-1

Quality Materials to suit your Lifestyle

These locally made boots are made from different materials such as Leather, from full-grain to nubuck, animal skin, or synthetic fabrics such as cordura, which are resistant to abrasions.

Leather boots soften and mold to your feet as you use them, but they require extra care to keep the leather from cracking.

Meanwhile, synthetic material is easier to maintain but usually lacks the classic elegance leather boots offer.

BootsbyMetal offers a wide range of options to suit your lifestyle and your willingness to look after the material.

 Boots bymetal shoes

 

WHY GO METAL?

As we proceed further into the year, some may choose to refresh their style, including giving boots a try and others may choose to try out a new brand. Here are some good reasons to get yourself a pair of Metal boots:

• Top Notch Quality
• Affordability
• Easy purchase with local currency
• Custom Build Services
• Wide range of choices
• No time delays in purchase and delivery

Want to order now?
Visit www.bootsbymetal.com to place your order now!

Meet The Founder Of Detail Africa (Exclusive Interview)

NAJU-B-1

Detail Africa is the newest addition to the Bellafricana Verified Family, and I am very excited to be introducing this amazing brand to you. Keep reading to meet the Founder, Seromume Ikogho, as he speaks with Jessica of Bellafricana.

  • Please introduce yourself and your background.

My mane is Seromume Ikogho. I studied accounting at Covenant University. I am a chartered accountant and business consultant, with over three years’ business consulting experience serving small and medium businesses as well as multinationals.

  • Tell us about your work. How did Detail Africa start?

I observed the unpopularity of men carrying proper leather work bags when I got a personal work bag from Dubai about three years ago. It made me think that there was a gap in the market for the product, so I went around to the market and noticed that quality men’s leather bags were either great quality but too expensive or low quality and affordable.

I wanted to bridge this gap and put Africa on the global scale in terms of fashion, especially regarding men’s leather bags and other leather accessories. Since commencement of production in 2017, we have increased our product lines from work and travel bags to include wallets, pouches, portfolios and other leather accessories.

  • How did you come about the name and what does it mean?

I have always been very particular about attention to detail. It’s a guiding principle I follow in all my work. I wanted to build a brand that would be an extension of my personality, hence I came up with the name ‘Detail’.

Furthermore, I have always seen Africa as my primary market and not Nigeria. So, I decided to include that in the brand name to remind us of our ideals, embrace diversity and inclusion, and drive us to conquer the continent.

  • What is your niche and how did you know it was a market to get into?

Our niche is men’s leather bags. As mentioned earlier, I observed the unpopularity of men carrying proper leather work bags when I got a personal work bag from Dubai about three years ago. It made me think that there was a gap in the market for the product, so I went around to the market and noticed that quality men’s leather bags were either great quality but too expensive or low quality and affordable. I wanted to bridge this gap and put Africa on the global scale in terms of fashion, especially regarding men’s leather bags and other leather accessories.

  • Where do you get the inspiration for your products?

I constantly try to understand the lifestyle of our target market. I take time to talk to people in order to know what they need in a bag and what inspires them. I’m also a big fan of western brands such as Carl Friedrik and Frank Clegg.

  • Can you remember one of the first products you made? What makes it memorable?

Yes, I remember the first product we made. It was the Naju briefcase. It is memorable because it was named after my dad. He constantly encourages and inspires me to do better and be better.

  • What are some of the challenges you face in your business?

The journey has been exciting and depressing at the same time. Everyday has been a new opportunity to learn and improve. Entrepreneurship is difficult but entrepreneurship in Nigeria is even more difficult because of the infrastructural deficit. It is a herculean task trying to maintain great brand reputation when the surrounding environment is not an enabling one and many artisans are on survival mode. However, we have been able to learn on the job and come out on top.

  • Do you have any regrets venturing into this line of business?

Not at all.

  • What is your most popular product?

Our Detail Signature Bag.

  • To what extent do you draw upon your Nigerian (African) heritage for your work?

We promote Africa through our ideals and branding and also have plans to release a new collection before summer 2020 where we will infuse a lot of African designs, prints and accessories.

  • What are some of your short term and long term goals, both in your business and life in general?

Our medium term vision is to establish presence in at least four countries in Africa, as well as three countries outside Africa, and also, invest in backward integration/leather tanning by 2025. Our long term vision is to significantly change the narrative surrounding the Nigeria leather industry and its value chain on a continental and global level.

  • What would people be surprised to learn about you?

I used to rap in university lol

  • What profession would you be in if you weren’t in this Industry?

Management consulting

  • If you could give one piece of advice to anyone who wants to start their own business in your industry, what would it be?

Don’t start ‘small’, start ‘lean’

And finally, please share images of some of your work and tell us a little about each product.

The Tourman Travel bag: Simple yet stylish, the tourman is designed for a casual getaway or a business trip. Featuring a detachable strap, single main compartment and extra frontal compartment for smaller items.

tourman travel bag from detail africa

The backpack: Designed for the contemporary professional, the backpack perfectly fits a laptop up to 14inches, especially for the individuals that don’t like to carry a typical business bag.

Black-Backpack-with-Orange-Detail

The Fome Briefcase: As people of diversity and inclusion, the female briefcase is our pioneer product that seeks to support the contemporary woman in her journey towards greater success.

The FOME BRIEFCASE

Tan-Naju-Briefcase-Side-View

And that is it from here, for more details about the brand, check out their listing page here.

Picture sourced from: Bags and Briefcases Archives | Detail Africa

The Rise Of Adire For Fashion Lovers

Asologe Adire Fabrics on Bellafricana

Fashion lovers in Nigeria are definitely not new to Adire but if you have never heard of the fabric from Nigeria, you have been missing out on all the colorful items you could have in your wardrobe. To help you a better understanding of this, here is some history;

Adire, is a Yoruba (a tribe in Southwestern Nigeria) word for tie and dye. It was first made by Yoruba women of old by using a variety of resist-dyeing techniques.As the translation of the name suggests, the earliest pieces of Adire were probably simple tied designs on cotton cloth handspun and woven locally. 

I remember seeing a movie called “Odùduwà“, where the first wife of Oduduwa thought women how to tie and dye clothes. The ideology according to that movie’s story line was that before tie and dye textile came, clothes were only available in white colours. Continue reading here

Now we all are on the same page, let’s talk about the rise in the growth of adire. Gone are the days when there were limited styles for adire, now, you can you can use it for any style in mind. Check out some below;

With these latest styles, tell me who wouldn’t want to rock a piece?

Also, it’s easier to get now. With vendors such as Asologe, Sisi Aladire and more, you can easily place a call to get any of these. Click on pictures to shop any.

Asologe Adire Fabrics on Bellafricana

Adire by Sisi Aladire

Adire by Sisi AladireSisi Aladire Adire Eleko Fabrics

 

Adire fabric by asologe

With fabric styles like this, do you still wonder why adire fabric is growing in the fashion sphere? Join the train today and shop some adire fabrics from bellafricana marketplace.

STEPS TO MAKING

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