Pretty designer, Uduak Godwin Cameo – Osagbemeh, is the face behind FredaCameo Style House situated in Woji Port-Harcourt, River State capital. A native of Akwa-Ibom State, the mother of two boys shared her success story in the fashion industry to the publisher of SOLIDNEWSNG.COM Online Magazine, AZUH LILIAN.
Can we meet you?
MY name is Uduak Godwin Cameo- Osagbemeh, the creative designer of FredaCameo Style House LTD, a leading women’s wear brand based in Port Harcourt. I am also the lead instructor at the FredaCameo Fashion Academy.
What’s your educational background?
I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Engineering from the University of Port Harcourt, River State, Nigeria.
Did you get any formal training in fashion?
Yes I did, in different places, but mostly at Hanzulu Couture Fashion School.
When did the fashion designing begin for you?
Fashion designing began for me in 2013 right after my graduation from the University, just before going for NYSC. I started off at a skills acquisition centre in Port Harcourt, practiced personally for a while and then went to Hanzulu to upgrade myself.
How long did it take you to master the art of
fashion designing?
Mastery of any skills takes years; I am still in the process of mastery. But it took me a little over two years before I launched out with my fashion brand.
As a fashion designer, is there any particular fabric you are more comfortable working with?
Ankara, velvet and crepe.
What inspires your designs?
I get inspired by day-to-day encounter with people.
What are those things you look out for when designing for a client?
I look out for style, comfort and durability. Because we designs clothes for everyday use, these three form part of our first part of thoughts when designing.
How affordable are your charges?
Well, affordability is quite relative; we believe that we are quite different based on the kind of quality services and products we deliver.
Who is your best-dressed Nigerian woman and why?
I cannot pick one; we have too many stylish ladies in Nigeria.
What is the sweetest thing about marriage?
Marrying someone who loves and support you in everything you do. When your spouse supports your vision, you have won already.
Would you consider it (marriage) the best decision you have ever taken?
Yes, most definitely the best decision I have taken. My husband is such an amazing person. He supports me in all and cheers me on to success; best decision ever.
What makes a good designer?
Passion, hardwork and daily improvement.
How lucrative is the fashion business?
Oh, it is a very lucrative business; it takes a while to break even when you do. It’s totally worth it, especially if you have a good structure for your business.
What do you like most about being a fashion designer?
I love seeing my designs on beautiful women; it makes me feel like I have touched them in one way or another.
What is your favourite food?
Rice in any form.
How about drinks?
I don’t have a favourite drink.
How do you relax?
I unwind in bed with a movie.
Describe your personal style?
Comfortable stylish fashion.
What is the greatest thing God has done for you?
Blessing me with the most supportive spouse and family.
What is a must have in a woman’s wardrobe?
The little black dress is a must have.
What is the greatest lesson life has taught you?
I have learnt that hardwork and consistency pays.
Who are your fashions icons, the people you look up to in the fashion industry?
Tubo… I love her
What is the most common thing in your wardrobe?
Shift dresses… I love comfort
When was the last time you wore a suit?
Three months ago, for choir ministration.
Which is your favourite; corporate or native attires? And why?
Corporate; it depends on how I feel. I am open to both kinds of outfits depending on the occasion.
Where is the most fantastic place you have travelled to recently?
Dubai
What is your definition of a stylish woman?
A stylish woman is one who wears whatever she can afford with so much confidence.
Tells us more about your family?
I am the first daughter, but second child to my parents. I have four siblings; 3 brothers and a sister. I am happily married to Mr Cameo Osagbemeh and we have 2 handsome boys, Ivan (6 years) and Declan (4 years)
What is the most important thing to you right now?
My family.
What is your advice for those upcoming designers who see you as a role model?
If you desire it, work towards it and before long, you will get it. The sky is so big for all of us.
What is your favourite colour and why?
Any favourite color changes seasonally. Right now, its blue.
Can you tell us three beauty products that you can’t live without and why?
Moisturiser for my skin, lip balm/gloss for my lips and Vitamin C
Are you a lipstick or a gloss woman?
Lip-gloss all day!
What is your philosophy of life?
I do not chase, I attract; what is mine comes to me.
What is the secret behind your beautiful looks?
God and joy from family.
What is the most expensive thing in your wardrobe?
My wig.
Do you love heels or flat shoes?
Flats
The name Freda Cameo, how did you come about it?
Freda is my English name; Cameo is my husband’s name, hence, FredaCameo.
When did you set up FredaCameo Style House?
FredaCameo Style House was launched officially in 2015.
What is your dream for FredaCameo Style House?
My dream is for every household in the world to have a FredaCameo woman.
What is the best way to overcome challenges in business?
Prayers and perseverance.
You studied Environmental Engineering, why abandon it for fashion designing?
Well, I found passion in fashion designing. As soon as I started making clothes, I knew that it was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. I haven’t searched for any job since then, even engineering related jobs; I just love what I do.
What distinguishes FredaCameo Fashion House from the other designers?
We are different because of the flavor we bring to designing clothes; we make clothes that make women stand out wherever they go.
What are the three things people don’t know about you?
(1) I sing very well. (2) I used to be a very good dancer. (3) I’m not sure if there is a 3rd.
What is your best fashion accessory?
Earrings, they light up a woman’s face.
What does fashion mean to you?
Fashion is an expression of Self and life.
Share your happy moments with us?
One of my happy moments is spending time away with my family. Also, I do a happy dance each time clients are pleased with their outfits.
As a fashion designer, what styles are in vogue now?
Corseted dresses with skin tone tulled are in now.
Describe your wardrobe?
Comfort and classy.
How do you rate the Nigerian Fashion Industry?
Eight out of 10, we are doing amazing outfits.
How many awards do you have for your credit?
Nominated for 2, none at the moment.
What is a must have in an elegant woman’s bag?
Money!
Describe Uduak Cameo-Osagbemeh?
I am a happy girl next door; I do not take life and happening too seriously. Maybe because of my temperament; I always see the best in people and situations. I like being around people, but I prefer being in my own space by myself. You can find me singing or humming a song almost every time. I love to try new things, especially foods.
