Chioma Iwezue is the CEO of Chique’s Apparel, a fashion outlet situated at Woji, in Port-Harcourt. The mother of four and a native of Ika in Delta State shares intimate aspects of her life and business in this interview with the Publisher of SOLIDNEWSNG.COM Online Magazine, AZUH LILIAN…
Excerpts:
How would you describe yourself?
I am Mrs. ChiomaIwezue. I have a B.sc in Mass Communication, from Madonna University, Okija, Anambra State.
When did designing begin for you?
It’s been my passion in the past 15 years, but I went into it full time some 5 years ago.
Did you have any formal training?
Yes! In fact, in female fashion & designing; which I did in Port Harcourt, River State.
How long did it take you to master the art of fashion designing?
6 months
Just 6 months?
Yes, because it’s been my passion, it wasn’t difficult
When did you step up with Chique’sApparel?
Chiques’sApparel started as a female boutique, where I source for dresses from USA, UK and Turkey in 2012. But all along, I had it in mind to go fully into selling my own brand. That gave me the experience I had in styling, for various shapes and sizes knowing names and textures of fabrics. So when I closed the boutique and went to learn sewing, it was like a dream come true.
You studied Mass Communication, why did you abandon it for fashion designing?
I wouldn’t call it abandonment. Studying Mass Communication has given me an edge over being just a tailor. It taught me the importance of branding, marketing, advertising and relating with the general public, which has really helped my business, so I didn’t abandon it.
How did the name Chique’s Apparel come about?
Chique’s is the combination of my name. Chioma – Chi and Queen – Que. Then Apparel is for clothing; hence Chique’s Apparel.
What is your state of origin?
I’m from Delta State. Ika to be precise
Where is Chique’s Apparel office located?
It is Port Harcourt, Woji to be precise.
What fabrics do you love to work with?
I work with any fabric- cotton, chiffon, crepe etc. Though cotton fabrics are easier but with us, anything goes.
What inspires your designs?
It is anything that will suit every woman, especially the plus-size. I’m a plus-size. I noticed we have a lot of roles when it comes to what we wear, so we focus on producing what with flatter your assets and play down those aspects you don’t want.
Do you also design for the slim women?
Yeso! Why not? About 30% of my customers are on the slim side. It’s easier to make their outfits.
How affordable are your services?
Chique’s Apparel is very affordable. Our customers can testify to that. You don’t have to rob a bank to patronize us. We work with your budget. We don’t compromise the quality of accessories we use. We give you value for your money. We believe in making profits from our turn over.
What are those things you look out for when designing for a client?
We look at what the outfit is for and suggest what will suit the occasion. Some customers just say ‘I need something for a wedding or traditional marriage’. Some say ‘Friday wears at the office’. Some say ‘any casual wear’,‘I want to update my wardrobe’ etc. Then we ask what fabric they want, the style, this is where we advise on what will suit their shapes. Then, we negotiate the price. Some clients bring their fabrics, while in most cases we source the fabrics for them. We also sell fabrics too.
Who is your best dressed Nigerian woman?
I don’t really have o. I just admire well-designed African print on women generally.
What distinguishes Chique’sApparel from the other designers?
Our designs are unique. We work with quality fabric that won’t give you issues in future for less. We deliver on time. Infact, we are known for quick delivery. We are affordable and our customers’ satisfaction is important to us.
What colours are in vogue now?
Bright colours. You can never go wrong with it. It brightens mood and it also draws attention to you.
Be specific?
Yellow, red and green colours especially put together in one fabric
What is your dream for Chique’sApparel?
It is to become a household name on every lip, to be a popular brand for women styling in Nigeria and abroad.
What makes a good designer?
One who knows what to recommend for customers of any shape or size at every given time.
How lucrative is the fashion business?
It is lucrative when you know what you are doing. It has its up and downs, it requires a lot of patience and hard workto build a brand. Integrity is the key. Don’t be greedy. Collect jobs thatyou can handle and keep to your promise. We deliver within 2 weeks.
What do you like most about being a fashion designer?
When customers give positive feedback and wear our designs with smile.
What is your favourite food?
Yam with egg sauce or vegetable sauce
What is your favourable drink?
Coke
How do you relax?
Watching TV and going through social media for trending styles
What is the best way toovercome challenges in business?
If you are following your passion don’t give up. Be prayerful and persistent
Describe your personal style?
I like comfortable wears. Something I can wear to your party and eat everything I want and still not worry about my tummy bulging.
What is the greatest thing God has done for you?
A gift of family.My home, marriage and kids.
What is a must have in a woman’s wardrobe?
A black dress goes with any color of shoes or bags
What is the greatest lesson life has taught you?
To never give up on your dreams. One day, you will thank yourself for never giving up.
What is your definition of a stylish woman?
A woman who knows what makes her look smart, who has her style and don’t just simply jump on trendy outfits
When was the last time you wore a suit?
(Laughs) Suits? It’s not my thing. About 10 years ago?
Which is your favourite? Corporate or native attires?
I love native attires like print blazers with any pants, I love boubou a lot, and I also like smart casual dresses…
Why?
Because they speak Africa.
What is the most common thing in your wardrobe?
Ankara dresses, of course
Where is the most fantastic place you have travelled to recently?
Dubai
What is your best fashion accessory?
Bracelets and rings
Describe Chioma Iwezue?
I’m simple, easy going, down to earth and a strong woman.
Who are your fashion Icons? The people you look up to in the fashion industry?
AnjyLuminee Couture, Aladukeh All on Instagram
Can we meet your family, tell us about them?
I’m married to Engr Iwezue and blessed with four kids
What does fashion mean to you?
Fashion is your language to the world about who you are and your personality.
What is the most important thing to you right now?
Putting God first in everything I do and to achieve success in all my endeavours in life.
Share your happy moments with us?
Every day that starts well and ends well with lots of achievements gladdens my heart and when I gave birth to my children; my joy can’t be explained in writing; that kind of joy that takes away any kind of pain. This is what money cannot buy. A precious gift from God. It’s always big joy.
What styles are in vogue?
Maxi dresses, Ankara short dresses, Ankara jumpsuit and Ankara blazers.
Describe your wardrobe?
80% of my outfits are made by me.
What is your favouritecolour and why?
I love navy blue. It blends with my complexion
How do you rate the Nigerian fashion industry?
It has really grown in designs, manufacturing, distribution and retailing. And has gained global attention.
What is your advice for those upcoming designers who see you as a role model?
First of all be sure it is your passion, be consistent and everything will fall into place. I emphasize on following your passion because that is the only thing that keeps you going when you are learning the ropes. You don’t get discouraged even when you face challenges. That passion always makes you strive to be the best.
