OUR QUEST IS TO TAKE FASHION DESIGNS TO THE NEXT LEVEL- MICHELLE, NIGERIAN, UK BASE

She is young, energetic and determined to rule the world of fashion with her brand, LOCAL.

Michelle Arowoshola is a Nigerian British born, based in UK with a keen interest in making her designers one of the best around. Her participation at the just concluded Africa fashion week in Lagos, Nigeria did add to the glamour she has garnered to herself in her business. Michelle in a bid to reach out to her fans and other fashion lovers has spoken with this MAGAZINE. Excerpt:

Who is Michelle Arowoshola?

I am a Nigerian British born, based in United Kingdom. A fashion designer with a brand; named LOCAL. My quest is to explore the world with the great talent God has blessed me with.

What informed your choice of career as a fashion designer?

From a young age I was always interested in creating things, specifically the process of making clothes, I love fashion which then developed into an interest for designs and it metamorphosed to my choice of wanting to pursue a career as a fashion designer.

How many years have you put on the job?

Top fuji Act, PASUMA (RUNWAY with
a brand from LOCAL)

Well I studied fashion art & design at college for two years; I then went unto study it for 3 years at University of Creative Arts, Epsom, UK. I also spent time in between after gaining industry experience, so I will say I have put it up to 6 years in the trade.

Could you share us your experience as regards African Fashion week in Nigeria?

A model decked in one of her brands

African fashion week in Nigeria was such an amazing experience, being A Nigerian British born I felt so embraced and celebrated by my culture, I was glad to represent both Nigeria and the UK.

As a young entrepreneur, what are your plans to explore the world with your designers?

As regards to exploring the world; it is important to start establishing myself from Nigeria, Nigeria is where I draw a lot of my inspirations from; in addition I also want to create a market in the UK that will bring awareness to what I am doing in Nigeria. 

A brand from LOCAL

Can we have name of your brands that are out there making waves?

Local by Michelle Arowoshola 

What has been the challenges so far?

No major challenges so far; I give all thanks to God. However, all my projects thus far have been self funded with little support from my mum and a bit of contribution from my Uncle, CEO, Suru groups. Doing it all by myself has created pressure in the past. 

Michelle with Mercy Aigbe and Wolii Arole

What are the gains so far?

The gains are; I am doing what I enjoy and I am passionate about it.

What are the prospects?

I have got great prospects and another avenue I will like to explore is going into footwear.

Let’s have an in depth to your educational background? 

I attended an Art University where I studied fashion with a core specialization in men’s clothing.

How do you intend to make best out of African fashion and styles... Being a UK base?

I intend to create a medium between both African fashion and western styles but always sticking to the foundation of African fashion. I intend to always remain unique in my style and not being stereotypical.

BNS Promotion Boss and top entertainment Stars

Your brand; LOCAL could you tell us more about it?

Local is a high end luxury brand that Carter’s to different occasional wear, the clothing can be very vibrant, bold in colour and print however we have pieces that are simple in colour but high in detail.

Which other fashion shows have you been to for exhibition?

I showcased at the University for the Creative Arts internal show, and will be showcasing more at other shows this year and the next year of course.

Designs from LOCAL

Is this your first time in Africa with your stuff? 

Yes this was my first year showcasing at Africa fashion week in Nigeria. 

Who are your clients?

Still building my client base and our target is doing something great which we have embarked on and the response so far has been awesome. 

LOCAL and top celebrities what is the relationship like?

Most of all the celebrities I know are through my mother B&S promotions, she is an established Nigerian promoter Based in the United Kingdom.

Through her, I have been able to create a good relationship with top celebrities that are fond of my collections. Amongst them are; Mercy Aigbe, Wasiu Alabi Pasuma, Babatunde Bernard Baba Tee, Iyabo Ojo, Evangelist Tope Alabi, Wolii Arole, Dayo Amusa, Bisi Omologbalogba and a host of others.