Who are the forces behind the African fashion brands we retail? What are their stories and how did they end up as fashion brand owners? In this series we delve deep with these creative minds to offer a glimpse into their lives.
Meet Seyitan- the face behind kimono brand, Abebibytan. Seyitan is a multi-hyphenate: producer- tv host- creative director. We asked questions and she provided answers to help us understand better her motivation to start her brand of kimonos and other tidbits- such as which Afrobeat artist has been her favorite from day one.
1- When did you know you wanted to become a designer?
Thing is, I never in a million years thought that I would become a designer/entrepreneur. I majored in Mass Communication and have a Master’s degree in International Broadcast Journalism but I had always had a fascination with kimonos and got the inspiration to create my own kimono line while recording the second season of a travel show I featured in, “Here & Now: The adventures of TASA” in Senegal (It’s a long story but I’ll stop here).
2- What do you want people to feel first when they wear your designs?
When they wear it, COMFORT! When they look in the mirror, QUALITY! When they walk down the street, STYLISH!
3- What is the most difficult part about being a designer or being in fashion in Nigeria?
The hardest thing really is the harsh working environment and lack of basic facilities e.g electricity. Every aspect of this business from production to sales relies heavily on constant power supply, so one has to channel resources towards making that possible and that has financial implications.
4- What is the most rewarding aspect?
That despite all the challenges, we have been able to thrive and maintain the quality of our product. It’s what keeps me going.
5- Top three words that describe Nigeria for you?
Tenacious ! Home! Stressful!
Seyitan in one of her roles as TV Presenter on Nigeria’s RedTV’s “The Sauce”
6- Flats or sneakers?
Sneakers! They are comfortable and stylish and I was at some point in my life a tomboy, I’d like to think that I am a ‘lady’ now but wearing sneakers is one attribute I haven’t been able to shake off.
7- Hollywood or Nollywood?
Hollywood.
8- Fried rice or Jollof?
Is this even a question? JOLLOF RICE MAN!
9- Favorite Nigerian musician
Wiz! And I’m not just saying this because he’s popular now and modelling for Dolce & Gabanna in these streets. I’ve been a fan since his corny “Holla At Your Boy” video.
10- Favorite non-Nigerian musician
Coldplay- everyone that knows me knows I’m obsessed with the band.
11- The future I want to create is one where we are known for world class designs and every individual owns an Abebibytan kimono.
Shop Abebibytan kimonos on the brand’s boutique here on our site.
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