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Damilola Olayemi Kolaq, the CEO Didah Emporium is an expert in the outfit known as ‘abaya’.
The Fashion Designer tells Sunday Sun, about abaya fashion, she also cleared the up age-long misconceptions about the outfit considered majorly as Muslim women fashion.
Excerpts;
Why do you think nudity has become a top fashion trend?
Firstly, I will say that the Internet plays a significant role. People’s exposure to nude images and videos has increased dramatically over the years and we all want to evolve, We are copying more of the modern world, and with the help of technology, it is now a very easy access to all their day-to-day affairs.
Even before the greater influence of modern fashion, many believe flowing dresses make people unfashionable, what do you say to this?
I believe that’s totally wrong because people’s beliefs and mindsets differ. I believe fashion is what makes you comfortable and there is so much joy when I wear ‘abayas’ or ‘boubou’.
Is Abaya religious outfit?
No, it’s not a religious outfit. As a matter of fact, I will refer to it as modern wear. There are so many people across the globe wearing ‘abaya’, and it doesn’t matter what religion they belong to. The good thing about these outfits is that it makes one classy and respected in society. In those days, Abayas and ‘boubous’ were believed to be for older women. These days, younger people tend to love it more.
Talking about affordability, during Sallah celebration, it seems overpriced, what’s your take on that?
There are levels to it. Just as there are with other outfits, there are ‘abayas’ and ‘boubous’ for different levels. Everyone is entitled to looking classy, so there are so many affordable ones, it just depends on what the individual wants.
Fashion business is generally capital-intensive. Can you tell us about yours?
I would say it’s a lot but also not so much. Just as I said earlier, there are levels to it so it depends on who you want as customers. All the same, it’s best to venture into all ranges. Businesses these days are quite convenient, to the extent that you don’t necessarily have to have so much capital to start up a business, all thanks to technology.
What are the challenges faced?
I would say the country’s economy at the moment and I’m sure it affects most businesses and not just mine.
Will you say that society is fair to women entrepreneurs or even women in other sectors like politics?
I don’t think so because both genders still need to put in the same great energy to attain success. We are not getting any preferential treatment so there is nothing like that.
Also, I love it when women are doing exceptional things. As the saying goes, ‘What a man can do, a woman can do better’, I also will go into politics soon to do my best.
In this era, women are doing wonderful things in all aspects. Let’s even look as far as football; Asisat Oshoala is doing absolutely amazing. I picked football because I love soccer.
How do you believe women can prove their worth and be seen as more than cheerleaders and sex objects?
Women can prove their worth when we task ourselves too. We should always have it at the back of our minds that we are also entitled to take responsibility. By doing so, we won’t have to wait for anyone to give us money and it will serve as motivation for us to work harder.
