Oluwatoyin Adeosun, popularly known as Poise, is one of the youngest men making waves in the Nigerian fashion industry. Toyin graduated from Lead City University, Ibadan, Oyo State, in 2014 and has won many awards. He spoke with Toyin komolafe on his sojourn into the fashion world among other issues. Excerpts:
How and when did your journey into fashion designing start?I started as early as age six with drawing and painting which I found so interesting. I had a passion for creating beautiful pictures, so I was always thinking of ways of getting better in all I do which inspired me to start making cards. I did that for a long time and by the time I got to SSS1, I moved to the phase of customising wear, footwear, belt, pendant, etc. I started the sewing aspect when I made my graduation costume in SSS3. It was then that I realised that fashion is my passion.
What are the pains and gains of designing?There is a lot to fashion, there are seasons when you feel like the Industry sucks and you get frustrated but with time, I got to the conclusion that when great challenges come, that means you are close to the limelight and as soon as the challenges are overcomed then you have achieved great results.
Who are the people you have worked with?I have worked with a lot of great personalities, organisations and celebrities like ID Cabasa, Shola Allyson, Olamide, Davido, KFC, Popsony Petroleum, Omo Baba, HAIR ALIVE INDUSTRIES, GEORGIA, and U.S.A etc.
A lot of people get inspiration from different things, how do you get inspired?My greatest inspiration is from God. I also stay in a conducive environment, not noisy ones. I love it cool and calm with music at the background.
What other things have you done before venturing into fashion designing?My life from the scratch has been Art, Fashion and Creative works.
What is the most important thing to you when it comes to work?One thing you will always find with me is my tape measure. Having my tape measure with me makes me perform effectively as a fashion designer because I can take necessary measurement anywhere and work on it when it’s needed.
What other things are you passionate about? I have other gifts but the major thing I am passionate about is making people look good which makes me a fashion designer.
What are the qualities that truly describe you?Poise, efficiency and fashionable
What decision did you make that made you the success you are today?Years back, I made the decision to make Poise Clothing “A major part of every wardrobe” and also make it a multinational corporation which will influence major world events in the interest of the people and also the Joy of this is that this is coming from Nigeria, Africa. So, whenever I think of all these, I want to work more and achieve greater results in a shorter time with less effort.
How would you describe yourself style wise?I am a creative person, and I love playing with colours which I do to interpret my mood or to suit the event. Basically, I love to look smart, clean and poise.
How would you access the fashion industry?The Nigerian fashion industry is doing great and I must give credit to the wonderful designers who are making the industry proud both here and in the Diaspora and also the several organisations and media outfits that have been organising fashion shows to showcase Nigerian Designers and our collections for the world to see and adopt our culture through fashion. I must give credit to our fathers in the industry like Modela and Nobel Afrik for the great performance; we will do better by God’s grace.
What are your hobbies?I love reading fashion related magazines and articles that can make me better. I also like swimming and playing basket ball
How do you relax?I relax by listening to music but my mood usually determines the kind of music I listen to.
