A young star with exciting prospects, Dami Okesanya is an emerging fashion designer based in Dublin. Self-taught, and with fantastic ambitions for a successful label, she’s making a name for herself as a trendsetter, sourcing inspiration from her Nigerian roots, nature, the ‘80s and ‘90s, and everything around her…
A young star with exciting prospects, Dami Okesanya is an emerging fashion designer based in Dublin. Self-taught, and with fantastic ambitions for a successful label, she’s making a name for herself as a trendsetter, sourcing inspiration from her Nigerian roots, nature, the ‘80s and ‘90s, and everything around her…
Hi Dami! Can you tell us a little about your background? How do you feel it prepared you for a career in design?
I am currently studying Business and Management at DIT Aungier Street. This is the perfect tool to aid me in my pursuit to become a world-renowned fashion designer. I am gaining many important skills that will definitely become useful in my career.
How did you get started in a fashion design career?
Ever since I could remember, I have always designed little things. I started with making little outfits for my play dolls when I was very young, till when I started making them for myself.
Friends and other people would see my designs and comment, and ask if I could design something for them, and that’s how it started.
I had my first fashion show in August last year at the annual Ankara festival and everything kicked off from there.
What drew you to fashion, and specifically to starting your own line?
I have always been so interested in the way people dress, right from a young age! I just love how a simple ensemble could reinvent your look and how you feel about yourself. I wanted to be able to do that for other people, to bring such creativity to the world. It’s a powerful thing.
You design and make your own clothes?
Yes, I design all sorts of things such as clothes, shoes, bags, jewellery as well as bowties. I love to create my own style rather than following trends. Designing and wearing my designs enables me to stand out and look different because it wouldn’t be something everyone has.
What does a typical outfit creation involve?
Depending on the size and detail it may need, it could vary from one hour to a day’s work.
The first thing that needs to be done is finalising the sketch/design you want. Then it is all about making your creation come to life: cutting, joining, sewing and the finishing touches to add some detail and perfection.
What material do you use?
I mostly mix plain fabrics with an African print called Ankara to add a touch of culture.
How did you come about your design techniques?
I draw my creativity from anything that may inspire me and I think it shows in my work – well I hope so!
What is your style?
I can’t describe my style in a nutshell. I don’t follow trends so I’m more into anything that looks good and fits well. One day I could have an ’80s inspired look to a more modern hipster look.
A few people I admire style-wise would be Solange Knowles, Janelle Monae and Janet Jackson’s looks from back in the day.
What is the most difficult aspect in launching your own label?
I’d say the hardest part would be getting your name out there and trying to actually make a profit!
People love to window-shop but that becomes a problem for a designer when one doesn’t make money out of that. It is all about constantly marketing your brand and making sure you stay current.
What do you most enjoy about a fashion design career?
What’s not to love? The constant rebirth of fashion trends; the creativity and innovation. I love the adventure it brings you on every day, the challenges, the glamour and the amazing people you meet.
What skills are important in a fashion design career?
Being able to reinvent yourself every time, to be tolerant and humble and to have great marketing skills.
What do you wish you had known before entering the fashion industry?
How much hard work you would have to put in.
Where do you see your business in the long term?
I hope to be one of the people who dominate the Irish market and then spread out as far as I can reach!
What is fashion, in your opinion?
Fashion is a way for me to express myself; to express my mood, my likes and dislikes. When someone walks into a room, the first impression comes from your visual senses. What you see is what you get. Fashion speaks for you, it gives you an identity.
What is your greatest design achievement to date?
I would say my jewellery collection. I thrive to be creative when making my pieces.
Aside from design, what other interests do you have?
I sketch a lot, and dance and sing.
What do people need to know about a fashion design career?
Although there is a lot of glamour, benefits and beautiful clothes, one must not forget the constant hard work required in order to make it a success.
What advice would you give a fashion newbie or student looking to become a designer?
Be ready to put the work in, and you need to have tough skin. Not everyone accepts you with open arms and you don’t just become famous in one day. It takes time and dedication.
But also remember to be yourself and dare to stand out in everything you do!
Do you have any closing thoughts?
Thank you very much for choosing to interview me, and I hope you enjoyed what I had to say!
