By Christy Anyanwu
For Abiola Agboluaje, the iconic founder of dynamic creative house, Taovy Fashion Ltd., fashion is beyond fabrics and stitches.
However, to the Lagos-based trendsetting label, fashion is a vehicle of self-expression. According to Agboluaje, who dabbled into fashion about seven years ago, at Taovy, traditional African aesthetics is blended with contemporary style to create unique, vibrant, and culturally inspired clothing.
“At Taovy, we blend traditional African aesthetics with contemporary style to create unique, vibrant, and culturally inspired clothing,” he disclosed.
On why he chose to be a fashion designer, Agboluaje said it’s because he always loved to showcase the originality in himself and other people.
“I chose to be a fashion designer in order to be able to showcase the originality in both myself and other people. Moreover, fashion is not just about fabrics and stitches; to me, fashion is a form of self-expression and a means to convey one’s identity to the world,” he declared.
Taovy is renowned for specialising in creating contemporary and culturally inspired clothing that celebrates the diverse beauty of African heritage.
“Our brand excels in blending traditional African aesthetics with modern designs, resulting in a unique and vibrant collection,” Agboluaje enthuses with a wide grin on his face.
To the fashion entrepreneur, whose creative designs have put smiles on the faces of fashion buffs, some of the most challenging factors for reaching the top in the industry are related to branding, competition and finance.
But then, Agboluaje’s momentous occasions are when he sees his designs being featured in renowned fashion magazines.
In his words: “The editorial recognition not only validated my creative vision, but also opened doors to new opportunities and collaborations. Seeing my garments showcased on a global platform is a surreal and immensely rewarding experience. It fuels my passion for creating meaningful and impactful designs.”
On a parting note, Agboluaje has this advice for the up and coming fashion designers. “For aspiring fashion designers on the path to making a mark in the industry, I would like to tell them to hone their craft. It is also important to dedicate time to perfecting your skills and developing distinctive design aesthetics. Stay curious, experiment with various styles and be open to continuous learning. Attend workshops, engage with mentors, and never underestimate the value of honing your craft. These are the ways to greatness,” he remarked.