Temitope Akerele is a fashion designer, business leader and certified finance expert. A visionary entrepreneur with over a decade of experience in global fashion, She is the founder of Sought Out Fashions after her early days with Queenline Accessories. A Master’s degree holder in International Business and Finance from the University of Derby, United Kingdom, Temitope speaks about her passion for visual arts and the fashion industry in this exclusive interview with David Meshioye.

Take us through your career path
My love for art has been a constant in my life since childhood. I would often spend hours drawing and creating. In secondary school, I pursued Visual Arts, which solidified my interest in creativity. Even before graduating from Obafemi Awolowo University in 2011, I ventured into the fashion industry by starting my first business, Queenline Accessories. It focused on bead-making and wirework jewellery, particularly bridal pieces. I also took pride in training others in bead-making, which was incredibly rewarding.

What prepared you for this path and how did your early experiences help shape your current brand?
My early experiences laid a solid foundation for my understanding of craftsmanship and creativity. I always had a knack for innovating my clothing styles and would collaborate with tailors to bring my designs to life. This creative drive led me to explore online resources to learn about drafting body patterns, further enhancing my design skills.

With your expertise spanning fashion, how are you able to hone your skills?
After enrolling in Neo Mart Fashion School in 2018, I officially registered Sought Out Fashion Stores in 2021. The brand now specializes in bespoke dresses, exotic beads, fashionable bags, and accessories, allowing me to fuse my love for art with my business acumen

You wear many hats; how do you combine different sides? How do you ensure that each piece reflects your artistic vision and resonates with your customers?
I have learned to stay calm under pressure and maintain a clear focus, which helps me manage diverse responsibilities efficiently. I ensure that every aspect of my life, both business and personal, receives the attention it needs. Besides, I strongly believe combining multiple roles effectively comes down to embracing my natural calm and patience. This method allows me to seamlessly give my best to my businesses. As for my brand, each collection starts with a theme or a story I want to tell. I draw inspiration from cultural elements, current trends, and the feedback I receive from my customers. For instance, my recent collection showcased traditional Nigerian motifs combined with modern aesthetics. I believe it’s crucial to stay in tune with what my audience desires while ensuring that each piece embodies my artistic vision. This approach helps maintain authenticity and emotional connection with my customers.

It’s inspiring to hear how your passion evolved. What would you say is the most memorable piece you’ve created so far?
One of the designs that stands out for me is a bespoke evening gown I created for a client’s 40th birthday. The piece combined intricate embroidery, hand-beaded details, and a flowing mermaid silhouette. The gown was not only elegant but also symbolic of the client’s journey through life. The feedback I received was overwhelming, and it solidified my confidence as a designer.

That sounds like a remarkable project. Can you walk us through the design process for that piece?
Of course! The client wanted something bold yet classic, so I started by sketching ideas based on her personality. I knew I wanted to incorporate deep hues and add luxurious embellishments. The real challenge was the balance between the bold embroidery and the elegant silhouette. It took about three weeks from concept to the final fitting, and seeing her reaction when she first tried it on was priceless.

In a competitive industry like fashion, especially with the state of the present global economy, how challenging has it been and how are you able to overcome it?
The fashion industry is indeed competitive, and I’ve faced challenges such as limited resources and the pressure to constantly innovate. However, I view these challenges as opportunities for growth. Building a network of other designers has been invaluable, providing a support system and avenues for collaboration. Additionally, feedback from customers helps refine my offerings and keeps the creativity flowing. Adapting to changes in market trends and consumer preferences has been essential in maintaining relevance.

What does the future hold for Sought Out Fashions?
I have ambitious plans for Sought Out Fashions. In the next few years, my aim is to expand our product lines to include menswear and accessories while exploring collaborations with other designers. Additionally, I hope to create a platform that promotes local artisans, celebrating the rich craftsmanship in Nigeria. Ultimately, I want Sought Out Fashions to be recognized not just as a brand, but as a movement that highlights the beauty and potential of African fashion on a global stage.

What advice would you give to a younger woman seeking to navigate this path?
My candid advice to young women navigating their path is to follow their hearts and be happy. If you have a vision or a passion, do not hesitate to pursue it because that is where your joy and riches are.The fashion industry thrives on individuality and creativity. Invest in learning and continuously hone your skills, whether through formal education or self-study. Networking and collaborating with others in the industry can open doors and provide valuable insights. Remember, every challenge is a stepping stone, so persevere and keep pushing boundaries.

What is your mantra?
“Stick to your passion and embrace your unique perspective”. No matter what is happening around you, remember that God is in control and there is a reason you are here. Discover your purpose, give it your best effort, and share as much love as you can. Trust is fundamental in business, when people believe in you, they feel confident supporting you. Always pursue your goals with determination and a resolute mindset.