I worked in the fashion industry for about 10 years and it was such a mind-blowing experience. During my time in the industry, I was introduced to some amazing fashion brands that I really fell in love with. Now, I’m not a fashion expert but I know what I like and I think you will also. Every Friday, I’m going to be highlighting a fashion brand that I love and I’m hoping everyone will fall in love with them too.
First up is Obioma Fashion, a father and son team that is really making some noise in the African fashion industry. I got the opportunity to attend one of their pop-up shops and sit down with the son, Emeka while his father helped the customers. Here’s what he had to say…
NV: First off, thank you for taking the time out to sit with me. I love your fashion pieces! What inspired your brand?
EM: I was inspired by the various fabrics from Africa. I was inspired to mix western style with African fabrics and that is how Obioma Fashion was born.
NV: Tell our readers a little bit about yourself, what were you doing before you launched your brand?
EM: I was working on my Master’s degree in Economics and I was a substitute teacher in DC. I actually did some modeling for a while before I became a designer. I like being a designer a little more LOL.
NV: Where did you grow up and how did your upbringing influence your designs?
EM: I grew up in New Jersey and Michigan. My parents are both Nigerian so they taught me about my heritage and told me to embrace it. Also, my aunt owns a fashion business so I was not a stranger to the industry.
NV: That’s really awesome, so this is basically a family business.
Do you have any dream client(s) and why do you want to work with them?
EM: I would love to have a dress in a big movie or at an awards show. For example, I would have loved to see our designs on celebrities like Lupita Nyongo or Angela Bassett in the movie Black Panther or the red carpet. That would have been a dream come true.
NV: With so many African inspired fashion brands globally, what makes Obioma unique and stand out?
EM: Our clothes are all made in Nigeria. We mix Ankara fabrics with western styles so each piece is very unique.
NV: Describe your brand in three words?
EM: Unique African Clothes!
NV: Social media is currently king in the marketing world, how has social media helped your brand?
EM: Social media has helped with free promotion opportunities. It also gave us a platform to show our clothes to people who we would otherwise not have access to them.
NV: Emeka, thank you for sitting with me and talking about how you brought such a beautiful brand to life. I know you’re super busy and you have to get back to the pop-up shop, one last question. What are your future plans for the brand?
EM: My plan is to open a factory in Nigeria so we can mass produce for department stores and other designers. I also want to open a storefront.
That is great! I wish you the best of luck and I will definitely keep an eye on you guys so I can keep up with what you’re doing. Do me a favor… close this interview out with your favorite quote that keeps you motivated?
“Better late than never”
To find more out about Obioma Fashion and purchase some items, check out their website: www.myobioma.com or follow them Instagram: @myobioma
Naomi is a stylish, adventurous traveler. She’s a bit of a daredevil that loves excursions. Those that know her, call her a shoe connoisseur. She is also obsessed with music and has a playlist for just about any mood. She’s a foodie that loves a good vegetarian/vegan spot. Want to know where she is headed next… stay tuned to find out!
