Fashion in Nigeria…is growing like a wild fire - Mai Atafo

Renown and ever smiling fashion designer, Mai Atafo, sets the bar high when its comes to fashion in Nigeria. His designs are not for the fainted hearted and he’s never afraid to mix and match. RazzleDazzle recently quizzed the Edo Stateborn proud father of one on what he feels about the current state of the Nigerian fashion industry.

“Believe me, fashion in Nigeria has become a real business and it is growing like a wild fire.
The reason why the Mai Atafo brand is still here and will still be here is because the business is not only paying, it is growing. It is definitely growing,” he said.

On three things that can be helpful to the upcoming and already made fashion designers in Nigeria, he said, “Firstly, if you aspire to do fashion and you want to be a successful brand, you must be t you must acquire the right skill from the right people. Get a formal training so you can understand the business. Secondly, you must realise the business side of the profession.

Fashion is not just a hobby or a skill, it’s a real business, and so you must come to terms with this. “Thirdly, make sure you have an area you are specialised in and stay focused on be known for something. It will help you to be outstanding and unique.” Mai Atafo journey into the Nigerian fashion industry started with the establishment of MAI ATAFO INSPIRED in 2007.

It specialises in suits, red carpet dresses and wedding dresses. His designs are versatile, timeless and notably classy. His clientele cuts across various fashionistas in the fashion, beauty and entertainment industries.

He has been identified with big names such as Omowunmi Akinifesi, Adaeze Igwe, Dbanj, Stephanie Okereke, Kemi Adetiba, Tee Bills, Desmond Eliot among others.