‘My fashion client is my muse’

Temitope Williams is one of the most talented designers in the country. She runs Martwayne Dynamiques, a fashion retail and consulting outfit split into a retail arm/clothing line, Martwayne’ and a consulting arm ‘Fashion Advisory and Support Services’ (FASS). Armed with degrees in Economics, Fashion Design and Management from the Obafemi Awolowo University, Future Excellence Design Institute of South Africa and Australian Business and Retail Academy, she is extremely creative. Looking at her works, one would realise how serious she takes the fashion business. She recently sat with OLAMIDE ONI and shared her experiences. Excerpts.

Why did you go into the fashion business?

I was tired of the sub-standard work my tailor used to give me and the never-ending amendments despite being my tailor for three years. I just got tired of how she spoilt my clothes, so I decided to learn how to sew so that I could teach her. But, of course, as time went by and I got involved in the fashion industry, I began to see endless possibilities in areas I could apply my fashion knowledge and I can safely say today that I know exactly where I want to feature in the fashion industry.

What inspires and motivates you to do what you do?

This would depend on the area you are reffering to because I run tow distinct fields; the fashion design part and the consulting part. For the design portion and in terms of garment construction, everything around me inspires me. As a designer, you have the ability to use even the pattern on a floor tile as inspiration for your garments. If I have to create a runway collection, I choose a theme, do my research, build on the theme before I start sewing. Also, because I am into ready-to-wear clothing, most of my pieces have to be practical and wearable. If I am working on a client’s wardrobe, then the client is my muse.

For the consulting aspect however, my client is my main motivation. My major aim at all times is to give every client of mine ‘The right to make a striking visual statement’ at a fraction of the cost so I study mu client and create pieces for them or take them shopping if they are working on a stringent budget.

How long have you been involved in fashion?

Well, I left to study fashion in 2007 so technically, I have been in the industry for about four years now but I have been in operation for less than a year. I came back to the country in December 2009 and set up in March, 2010 so just about a year now.

How would you describe your fashion sense?

Personally, I am a very simple person. I dress in clothes that will remain valid for years, timeless fashion I think they call it. My favourite item is a pair of jeans and its funny that most people find it difficult to match my clothes to my personality because they are miles apart . I strive to be unpredictable and surprise people.

How have you been able to promote yourself as a designer?

I participate in shows and my clothes have been showcased in magazines so that has been great. I also try as much as possible to work with and train other designers in seminars/workshops organised by corporate entities because I am not only a designer but also a consultant. The areas that I can add value are so many so I promote myself in other areas too. For example,i give presentations on dress code matters and I market my clothing line as well.

How has your journey been in the fashion industry?

I must say that it has not been easy at all. Like every new business,it has been a huge challenge but I am thankful that despite all that has happened, I am still here, making a difference, no matter how little.

The players in the industry have been very encouraging and I seek advice when I need it from those ahead of me and they have equally shared ideas that have consistently helped too. Also, because I am willing to work with the existing players, the industry has been very receptive towards the collaboration effort so I can’t really complain.

What are you working on at the moment?

I actually have a few projects which include working on my collection; part of which I showcased at The Kappa Alpha PSI Dinner and Fashion Show which was held recently. I plan to add to the current selection so that I can have more garments on ground available for further shows and fashion shoots. I am also working on a fashion seminar, the first of many which will hold in March 2011. These seminars are aimed at new entrants and existing players in a bid to highlight various opportunities available in the fashion industry and how each player can plug themselves in and benefit from the industry. In addition to this, I am also an active player in Fashion Box, a brand/concept aimed at working and collaborating with other designers and we also have a few projects lined up. I am also working on facilitating training in fashion schools and looking forward to working with other designers in the areas of production. So,yes, we are multi-tasking at the moment and it feels really great to be busy.