House of Pambal is a contemporary African brand that came into existence in 2012. The creative designer and CEO Mrs Folake Nofisah Balogun of this simple but classic brand says her clothing line is for every woman that sees herself as royalty. She goes ahead to talk about her background,her undying love for the man that inspired her fashion line and how it birthed.

TELL us about yourself, growing up, family, background, education and all?
My name is Mrs Folake Nofisah Balogun, I am the fourth born of four children. I was born in Lagos state. It was really fun growing up considering that we were four girls. I also had very stylish parents who always dressed us up every chance they got. It was a beautiful experience growing up I must say.

I attained my primary school and secondary school certificate from carol nursery and primary school Ikeja and African church model college Ogba respectively. And went off to finish my university degree from the University of Lagos, Akoka. I am currently a fashion designer and the name of my brand is ‘House of Pambal’ which I culled up from my first daughters name, Princess Ameerah Balogun.

What else do you do for a living?
Fashion designing is my main focus, nothing else.
Please fill us in on your rise to fame and how did it all start?
It all started like a joke actually. I have always had a passion for fashion but as God will have it, I met the man of my dreams and he also happened to be a very good mens wear fashion designer. With time and with our very unique sense of style, my husband brought it up one day and asked me if I wouldn’t mind being a fashion designer just like him. He sort of noticed how interested I was and how I always pay so much attention whenever he’s working on a clients’ outfit. Ofcourse simply because everything felt right with him and I have always loved the art, I screamed YES in excitement and from there on, he started teaching me all he knew about the art and by the grace of God, today my brand has become a very big dream come true.

Which of your many jobs excite you the most?
All my jobs excite me, no matter how small that job is. Putting a smile on a female clients face through fashion gives me utmost joy and fulfillment.

What other areas of your career are you looking to explore?
My ready to wear line and also having great women in my piece e.g Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey, Kim Kadashian and so many other great women all around the world.

What has been the high point of your Fashion Career?
The highest point so far was my fashion show at the African fashion week Nigeria which was held at Eko hotel and suites. It was so amazing as the crowd really cheered when I came out to take a bow with my adorable princesses. I felt so fulfilled and proud. I thank God almighty.

What has been the lowest so far?
When I just started the brand and trying to make it a force to be reckoned with in the society and the fashion world, it really made me feel very low at some point but with words of encouragement and support from my husband, I became more determined and focused and now I give glory to God that ‘House of Pambal’ is what it is today.

What are the plans for the future, Short-term goals.
Getting my ready to wear line available in just about any fashion forward store around the world and also having major exhibitions on the highest level in the world as well.

Tell us about “House of Pambal” and what it represents?
House of Pambal is a royal clothing line for every woman that sees herself as a queen. House of Pambal is basically a simple and classy royal brand.
What inspires your designs?
Art and royalty.

What made you decide to pursue a career in fashion?
Fashion for me is in born. It has always been a very strong part of me and I guess that’s why it came to me naturally. I also love to look good and most importantly, I love to see and make others look fabulous.

You must be a very loving and patient but most of all proud wife, how does it feel having your husband in the same line of work as you?
Yes I am. Thank you so much. It feels amazing because he is my mentor and teacher. He inspires me a lot and I am particularly happy that we share the same vision and goals. This tightens our bond and makes us relate more as friends. It basically makes everything more fun between us. I am extremely thankful and grateful to God for that man called King Hakbal, my husband, my crown.
What are the challenges you are facing in the profession?

Electricity. I believe that’s every entrepreneurs’ major problem.
Any tips for aspiring designers?

Stay focused, be very patient and humble, stay prayerful, learn the art of sewing and get creative but with a very decent sense of style.