Home Entrepreneurship How Vivian Omotosho is making waves in the African Fashion industry

How Vivian Omotosho is making waves in the African Fashion industry

by Seun Emmanuel

Vivian Motunrayo Omotosho has spent the past five years establishing herself as a dynamic force in African fashion. Through her brand, Vienne Styling, she has blended modern trends with cultural heritage, resulting in a unique approach to fashion that celebrates both artistry and African traditions.

Vivian’s journey into fashion was sparked by personal experiences. Her aunt introduced her to sewing, nurturing her early love for the craft. This passion was further developed during a university break caused by an ASUU strike when she apprenticed with a local tailor. “Those three months really opened my eyes to garment construction and design,” she says. After completing her National Youth Service in 2019, she pursued her passion at the Anncranberry Fashion Academy, officially launching her brand. Starting with simple projects for friends and family, Vivian built both her confidence and her network.

Her love for fabrics, colours, and textures has always fueled her creativity. “From a young age, I was captivated by the textures, patterns, and colours that fabrics can embody,” she explains. For Vivian, fashion is about telling stories through design, and each garment is a canvas for self-expression.

Inspiration for her work comes from a wide range of industry figures, particularly women who have overcome barriers to achieve success. “Their ability to navigate challenges while setting new standards of excellence motivates me,” Vivian says. These influences have shaped her own determination to push boundaries and remain relevant.

Vivian attributes her longevity in the fashion world to her adaptability. She balances staying on top of trends with maintaining her brand’s core aesthetic, while always listening to the needs of her clients. “It’s a blend of self-improvement, trend awareness, and community engagement,” she notes, highlighting the importance of connecting with her audience.

Vienne Styling is focused on creating affordable, high-quality pieces that are accessible without sacrificing craftsmanship. Like many in the industry, however, Vivian has faced challenges, including sourcing high-quality materials and managing logistics. Additionally, the cost of professional-grade equipment has been a hurdle. She emphasizes the need for better networks within the industry, particularly those that connect designers with suppliers and funding. “We need platforms that connect designers with suppliers and funding sources,” she suggests, envisioning a more supportive ecosystem.

For aspiring designers, Vivian’s advice is simple yet profound: “Embrace your creativity and let it shine.” She encourages young talent to remain authentic and open to collaboration, as well as to continuously learn and build connections within the industry.

Her brand, Vienne Styling, is centred on sustainability and the celebration of African culture through fashion. Each collection is inspired by traditional African craftsmanship, particularly textiles like Adire and Aso Oke.

A trip to Abeokuta, where she witnessed artisans creating these fabrics, marked a turning point in her career. “Seeing artisans create these stunning textiles reignited my passion for African fabrics,” she shares, leading her to incorporate these elements into her designs.

Vivian’s story is deeply rooted in her upbringing in Sango, Ogun State, Nigeria, where she was born on January 3, 1998. She holds a degree in Philosophy from the University of Lagos, a field that has informed her reflective and thoughtful approach to design. She is also pursuing a master’s degree in Human Resources, which she believes is key to understanding the people-focused aspects of the fashion industry.

Looking back, Vivian has no regrets about her decision to enter the fashion industry. “Fashion is not just a business for me; it’s a form of self-expression and a way to connect with culture and community,” she reflects. Despite the challenges, her passion has only grown stronger. With every piece she designs, Vivian celebrates her creativity, culture, and commitment to African craftsmanship, solidifying her place as a rising star in African fashion.

Vienne Styling official handles: Instagram: Vienne_styling; Facebook: Vienne Styling; Twitter: @vienneStyling

You may also like