Fashion Business Lessons from Deola Sagoe

Image source; Google

Deola Sagoe is the first to build an empire from putting fabrics together for make story telling outfits, an haute coutourier and a mother of three. She started her womens wear brand- The House of Deola Sagoe, over 25 years ago. She won many awards and showcased her designs on international platforms. A woman who wants to be remembered as the one who went into her heritage, into her history and made us to be recognized again that we are indeed people who add value.

Image source: Google

1. Been the first in your field gives you a powerful edge: been the first to get into a field is power. You automatically become a pillar as registering your name in people's mindsis quite easy. Lesson one is, even in a saturated field, carve your niche, it will serve as your anchor in the storm of competitors
   

2. Be dedicated to innovating: it is true that The House of Deola Sagoe is the first in the industry, but a lot has happened since 25 years ago. We now have the likes of Mai Atafo, Ejiro Amos Tafiri, to mention a few. The rate at which new entraints storm the industry on a yearly basis is quite alarming. Innovation and excellence has been a strength of this brand, littlenwonder they still remain pace setters. Lesson number two is, never get too comfortable, it does not take too long to be forgotten. Keep moving!
   

3. Heritage of craftsmanship: It not enough to have the name, money to brand,, connections with celebrities. Excellent craftsmanship stands you out.
   

4. Deola Sagoe is a designer who never jokes with the business part of her passion. Never forget its a business, passion is not always the number one thing in market place. Get educated in this regard, the level of business literacy most times determines the height
   and longevity of your organization.

5. She always raises the African flag whenever, wherever and however she can. Her vision for her brand has always been to be the African brand of choice when it comes to premium ready to wear, when it comes to any product that needs to be traced back to Africa. This is one key ingredient that has helped the likes of Coco Chanel, Gucci, Dior, etc. A string country-of-origin link is very essential.

6. Never let your obstacles limit you: Even though structure and infrastructure pose a challenge to the Nigerian fashion industry, Deola never allowed that get in the way of her dream. Be your own cheerleader!