You might not be an expert on fabrics, but you’ve certainly seen stunning outfits on celebrities like Toke Makinwa and actress Enado Odigie from renowned designers like House of Marvee, Emagine By Bukola. From red-carpet moments to bridal gowns, it all starts with the right fabric. Nigerian designers are making waves internationally, and the secret to their success lies in their use of textiles. In the world of fashion, the right fabric isn’t just important—it’s everything.
And once you get it right, half the battle is won. I had the chance to chat with Oluwatoyin Omotosho, founder of The Fabrics Sale Nig. I learned how fabric can truly make or break a designer’s vision.
How fabric inspires designers
“Fabric is where the design begins,” Toyin said, “when a designer touches premium fabric, it sparks ideas and takes their vision to the next level. Without that, even the best concept can fall flat.”
Design might look like it all comes down to sketches, but according to Oluwatoyin, fabric is the real star. A simple design can transform into couture gold with the right silk, chiffon, or beaded lace. “Fabric is where the design begins,” Toyin said, “when a designer touches premium fabric, it sparks ideas and takes their vision to the next level. Without that, even the best concept can fall flat.”
The weight, texture, colour of the fabric can influence every aspect of a design. From its shape to its emotional impact. For example, a lightweight chiffon may inspire a flowy, ethereal gown, while a structured fabric could lead to a more tailored, sophisticated look. With the right fabrics at their disposal, designers can confidently create pieces that not only reflect their creativity but also stand out in a competitive market.
Bringing designs to life
Toyin works closely with couture designers from the very start of the design process. She sketches both the fabric and the overall design on high-quality paper. Which helps designers visualise how the fabric interacts with their concepts. This method not only enhances communication but also allows for a more seamless integration of fabric and design. “I’m involved from the initial sketch to the final dress,” she explains. “This hands-on approach enables us to select the perfect materials that will bring the design to life.”
She has done this with several designers like House of Marvee, April By Kunbi, Somo By Somo, Prudential Styling, and Emagine By Bukola. Their standout pieces demonstrate how essential this collaboration is in crafting show-stopping collections that rival those from Milan to Paris.
Revolutionising fabric sourcing with technology
“With AR and VR, designers can explore how fabrics move and interact without physically touching them.”
Toyin is also introducing augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) into fabric sourcing, an app that lets her create a futuristic exclusive experience just for designers. “With AR and VR, designers can explore how fabrics move and interact without physically touching them.” she explained. “It’s a game-changer for efficiency and creativity.”
This virtual approach allows designers to visualise combinations, experiment with textures, and see how fabrics behave under different conditions—all before committing to a purchase. “It’s about making the design process smoother and more exciting,” Toyin added.
Sustainable fabrics at the core
“We collaborate with suppliers who prioritise ethical practices, and we actively repurpose fabric scraps to minimise waste,”
Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in the fashion industry, and Toyin is dedicated to making a difference. “We collaborate with suppliers who prioritise ethical practices, and we actively repurpose fabric scraps to minimise waste,” she explains. she explains. In addition to sourcing fabrics from India and the Czech Republic, Toyin also produces her own couture eco-materials, including hand-dyed fabrics, beads, and sequins. These beads and sequins are crafted from recycled materials and eco-friendly alternatives, with local artisans meticulously adding them to ensure both beauty and sustainability.
Furthermore, by training local artisans, The Fabrics Sale Nig is committed to preserving traditional skills while supporting sustainable livelihoods within the community. “We teach techniques like hand-beading and embroidery, so artisans in Nigeria can contribute to high-end fashion,” Toyin explains. “Fashion should not only be beautiful but also meaningful, creating a positive impact at every step of the process,” she emphasised.
Beyond fabrics: The bigger picture
“We want to create a space where designers can access everything they need, from premium fabrics to raw materials for detailed embroidery,”
For Toyin, The Fabrics Sale Nig represents more than just fabric—it’s about shaping the future of Nigerian fashion. Her vision includes establishing a fabric hub in Nigeria that not only supplies high-quality materials but also nurtures innovation and craftsmanship. “We want to create a space where designers can access everything they need, from premium fabrics to raw materials for detailed embroidery,” she explains. “This will help reduce reliance on international suppliers and enable designers to create truly Nigerian couture.”
Training artisans in advanced embroidery techniques is also central to her mission. “Italian embroidery is world-renowned, and I believe our designers can achieve that same level of mastery,” Toyin states. She believes this can be achieved through consistent training, collaboration with experienced craftsmen. By bridging the gap between raw talent and technical skill, The Fabrics Sale Nig is paving the way for a new era of haute couture in Nigeria.
Fabrics Sale Nig plays a significant role by providing access to high quality materials, positioning Nigerian fashion to make a powerful mark on the global stage. “When designers have access to the right fabric, the possibilities are endless,” Toyin says. With premium materials and bold creativity, Nigerian fashion isn’t just joining the global stage—it’s taking the lead.
