With no formal training, Fatimah Aliyu, CEO of Foah Fashion has been able to carve a niche for herself in the fashion industry.
Based in Warri, Delta State, Aliyu who hails from Edo speaks with the publisher of SOLIDNEWSNG.COM Online Magazine, AZUH LILIAN, about her odyssey in the fashion business among other related issues.
Can we meet you?
I’m Mrs. Fatimah Aliyu from Iraokhor in Estako Central Local Government of Edo State but I’m based in Warri, Delta State.
What’s your educational background?
I have a Higher National Diploma in Accounting from Federal Polytechnic, Auchi, Edo State
Did you have any formal training in fashion designing?
No
When did designing begin for you?
June 2020
What was the duration, how long did it take you to master the art of designing?
I’m still developing it.
What fabrics do you love to work with?
Ankara, vintage and creep
What inspires your designs?
Modesty
What are those things you look out for when designing for a client?
I look out for party or weekend wears.
How affordable are your charges?
My charges are very affordable for an average income individual.
What is your marital status?
Married
What makes a good designer?
Creativity – your creativity
Who is your best dressed Nigerian woman and why?
I, because I love to look good
How lucrative is the fashion business?
It is very lucrative as it has no limit.
What do you like most about being a fashion designer?
I’m able to style people
What is your favourite food?
Beans
How about drinks?
Malt
How do you relax?
By sleeping
Describe your personal style?
Free gowns, Kaftans
What does fashion mean to you?
Fashion is creatively
What is the greatest thing that God has done for you?
Life, good health, my husband, children and my mother
What is a must have in an elegant woman’s wardrobe?
Easy wears, kaftans
The name, Foah, how did you come about it?
It’s short form of my name (Fatimah Omoayena Amedo H) Foah
What is your dream for Foah fashion?
My dream is to make Foah an international luxury brand
What is the best way to overcome challenges in business?
Research; learn more, consistency and prayer
What distinguishes Foah Fashion from the other designers?
Its uniqueness and originality
As a fashion designer what styles are in vogue?
Everyday woman wants that easy everyday outfit and as you grow, you learn to appreciate Kaftans
What does style mean to you?
Style is your imagination brought to reality
At the moment, what colors would you say are in for the season?
Green, Red, Blue black
When was the last time you wore a suit?
Been a while
Which is your favourite; Corporate or Native attires and why?
Corporate attire as well as trouser and shirt, native kaftans
What is your favourite colour?
Black
Can you tell us the three beauty products that you can’t live without and why?
I can live without anything but I can say perfume, powder and clothes
Are you a lipstick or gloss woman?
Lipstick
What is your philosophy of life?
No matter how slow you are, keep moving
Do you love heels or flat shoes?
Flat shoes
What is the most expensive thing in your wardrobe?
My clothes
What is the secret of your beauty?
Native
What are the three things people don’t know about you?
I hate to lose in a challenge, I work really hard and I pray very well.
What is your best fashion accessory?
Earrings
Where is the most fantastic place you have travelled to recently?
None yet
Can we meet your family, tell us about them?
I have a wonderful and supportive family. They are the secret behind my little success
What is your definition of a stylish woman?
Always on point
What is your advice for those up and coming designers who see you as a role model?
My advice is to be consistent and be patient; you might not know who is seeing your work
Share your happy moments with us?
The day I got married, then got pregnant and when I established the Foah brand
Describe your wardrobe?
Simple and Classy
How do you rate the Nigerian Fashion industry?
100% encouraging
How many awards do you have to your credit?
None yet; I am still a work in progress.
What is a must have in an elegant woman’s bag?
Handkerchief
Describe yourself in a nutshell?
I don’t take things too serious; I put in my best in all I do and I am a sweet person
