From Sketches to Spotlight: How Omolade Ladejobi Is Weaving African Elegance Into a Global Fashion Statement

At barely two years into launching Anikky Stitches Fashion Hub, Omolade Suliat Ladejobi is proving that passion, culture, and creativity can be stitched into a powerful fashion legacy.

In this exclusive interview with CityBuzzNews, the Mass Communication graduate turned fashionpreneur shares how her roots, resilience, and raw talent helped her rise from sketching outfits in school to dressing public figures and dreaming of global runways—all while staying deeply connected to her African identity.

Excerpt

How did your academic journey influence your path as a fashion designer?

I studied Mass Communication at Lead City University, Ibadan, and graduated in 2015. Studying communication sharpened my storytelling abilities, which I now express through fashion. It helped me understand how to connect with audiences—a skill that’s been vital in growing my fashion brand.

What inspired you to pursue a career in fashion design?

My greatest inspiration came from my mother, who was a talented sew mistress. Watching her bring fabrics to life with skill and passion sparked my early interest in fashion.

Fashion has always been my language of creativity. Even while in school, I sketched outfit ideas and styled friends for events. Over time, what began as a passion evolved into a purposeful career.

Did you receive formal training in fashion?

I received mentorship and vocational training under the guidance of Tailored by MEENAH. She was my only formal teacher in the field, and her mentorship was instrumental in helping me develop both technically and creatively.

What challenges did you face starting out in fashion?

One of the toughest parts was gaining recognition in a highly competitive industry. I had to prove myself with every design, ensure my pieces spoke for themselves, and gradually build trust within my client base.

What is your design style, and what sets your brand apart?

My designs blend modern aesthetics with rich African cultural elements. I create pieces that are elegant, expressive, and empowering—designed especially for women who want to stand out with grace and confidence.

What’s a proud moment you’ve had in your career so far?

Dressing a public figure for a red carpet event was a huge milestone. Seeing my design appreciated on such a platform reassured me that my work resonates beyond borders.

How do you stay creative and relevant in a fast-changing industry?

I draw inspiration from everyday life, nature, music, and culture. I also keep up with global trends, collaborate with other creatives, and remain open to learning and evolving.

What advice would you give to upcoming fashion creatives?

Start with what you have, be consistent, and never stop learning. The journey isn’t easy, but if you stay passionate and authentic, you’ll carve your space.

What brought about the name Anikky Stitches?

The name “Anikky Stitches” was born out of a personal nickname and the desire to create something truly reflective of my personality and journey. It carries a sense of familiarity and pride, tied closely to my identity and the values I uphold as a designer. After freelancing for about 12 months, I officially founded my fashion brand, Anikky Stitches Fashion Hub, in July 2021. The name represents my commitment to craftsmanship, originality, and empowering every client through bold, elegant fashion.

What’s next for you and your brand?

Looking ahead, my vision for Anikky Stitches Fashion Hub is to evolve into a globally recognised fashion powerhouse. I’m developing a luxury ready-to-wear line that fuses African elegance with global trends, and I plan to launch flagship collections at international fashion weeks. I’m also working on creating a mentorship platform for emerging designers, aimed at nurturing fresh talent and promoting sustainable, culturally rooted fashion design. My ultimate goal is to establish a creative studio that serves as a hub for innovation, empowerment, and African excellence.

Contact: 08077874964
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