How did you start Dudu Couture?
I am Prince Olaide Afolabi Ayorinde, second to the last born of HRH, Oba S.A Ayorinde, the Alakija of Ikija- Orile, Ogun State. I started Dudu Couture when I was at the university. I started with branding of T-Shirts and customised sneekers, I really didn’t feel the difficulties of life then because I was actually doing it for fun. I love hearing the result that it was Dudu that did it, I think that is what is still keeping me till date. If you have passion for what you do, you won’t really feel the challenges till you get to the peak.
What were the problems faced while growing the brand?
I started facing challenges when I finished from university in 2008. That was when I moved to Lagos to learn more about tailoring, that was when I started traditional wears. I later started making suits and trousers. My challenges are my other apprentices that I met at fashion school, because at that time, most of us in the fashion school are graduates that are trying to build up for the tailoring because we have passion for it. There was competition at fashion school then, it was a challenge but that is what is helping the market till date. The challenges gave me more inspiration to do more.
What stands you out?
What really stands me out is that I am not just a fashion designer, I’m a creative fashion designer.
How was growing up for you?
Growing up wasn’t easy because when we started building up Dudu Couture, fashion was not really appreciated but now people have really loved fashion. We are always very careful with our price rate and we are always particular about finishing. Building up Dudu Couture wasn’t that easy but like I said earlier, if you have passion for what you do, you will never relent regardless of the situation you find yourself. Consistency and hard work will definitely take you to the rooftop.
