Meet Ibadan fashion designer who designs for celebrity babes

 -Why Joy Is Hot Right Now

When talking about one female fashion designer who is currently making waves in Ibadan, the name Joy comes to mind. Olabode Joy Abigail is the Creative Director behind the popular Abike Modish Attire (@_ama_brand), a highly reputed fashion designing company that has been creating exquisite styles for women. Not only has Joy carved a niche for herself, but she has also taken it further by constantly upgrading her brand and designs. Hot female celebrities, both young and old, now rush to AMA for their head-turning styles. The reasons for this are not far-fetched, AMA’s styles are usually unique and distinct. This is because Joy pays strict attention to detail when creating all kinds of outfits for different occasions for her clients. Joy, interestingly, is not just a designer but also a walking advertisement for her brand. She is gorgeous with a very nice body shape, making anything she wears sit well on her. And thereby creating a kind attraction for her potential clients. Joy recently spoke with City People’s Dare Adeniran (08057639079) during which she opened up on how she has successfully built a name for herself in the industry, her next plans in taking her brand to the next level and some other issues. Enjoy the excerpts……

How did the fashion designing business start with you?

Well, I would say a bit of diligence and determination have brought me to where I am today. It wasn’t easy initially. I had to work as a Sales Rep for two years and saved up my salary to pay for an apprenticeship, then got my very first sewing machine. Also from my savings, I was able to rent a small space after my apprenticeship. I rented my first space at age 20.

What attracted you to the profession?

The love for “fits” attracted me to the profession. I mostly didn’t like the outfits my tailors made for me when I was younger. This made me fall in love with fashion designing work so I could make clothes for myself. Now I derive joy in seeing my sewing fit different people with different body shapes.

How would you describe the experience since you ventured into the fashion designing business?

It has been both exciting and overwhelming. I’ve been diving into the creative process, exploring fabrics, and sketching out ideas. It’s a lot to take in, but it’s also incredibly fulfilling to see my vision start to take shape. However, there’s a lot to learn. I’m always willing to embrace the challenges and learn as much as I can.

What are the challenges you have encountered and how did you tackle them and improve your business?

One challenge I’ve faced is dealing with customers who, after their dress is finished, refuse to pay the remaining balance. To address this, I now require customers to make an initial deposit of 80% of the agreed price, with the remaining 20% due before delivery.

Sometimes, there are little adjustments to make and all that. But in all, I upgrade my fashion skills every day and I’m still learning from the best and this has helped me a great deal.

What distinguished AMA from other fashion designers in town?

Personalized services and attention to detail. We don’t joke with finishing in our designs. We can’t afford to, we have built a brand within a short period so we have a name to protect. We take our time to understand each client’s unique style and preferences, ensuring that every piece we create is a true reflection of their individuality.

Additionally, our use of high-quality materials and craftsmanship guarantees a perfect fit and exceptional finish, making every design not just a garment, but a work of art.

What do you think has kept you going despite the challenges?

The challenges, like every other sector, are enormous. But we thank God for the grace to be able to tackle these challenges as they come. Having said that, I would say what has kept me going over the years is my love for fashion and design, and, of course, the fact that a girl’s got to eat! But in all seriousness, the joy of seeing clients happy with their custom pieces and the thrill of bringing my ideas to life keep me motivated.

Despite the challenges, the support from satisfied clients, the chance to do what I love, and a little bit of money on the side keep me moving forward.

What was the inspiration behind your brand’s name, AMA?

My love for my praise poetry made me name my brand after my eulogy, Abike. So I just added Modish Attire to it to make Abike Modish Attire (AMA).

Tell me a little about yourself.

My name is Olabode Joy Abigail. I’m a native of Osun State but was born and brought up in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State. I’m a designer and a fashion entrepreneur with a great vision of making my brand a household name.