Passion, Consistency, and Creativity Drive Our Success – Mrs. Ajadi, CEO, Kiksy_Stitches

How to Become a Successful Fashion Entrepreneur — Expert

In the competitive world of fashion, standing out takes more than talent, it requires persistence, innovation, and a clear sense of purpose. For Mrs. Okikiola Ajadi, the creative force behind Kiksy_Stitches, based in Lagos, fashion is not just about designing clothes, it’s about building confidence, empowering women, and turning creativity into enterprise.

Speaking exclusively with Temitope Adebayo, she speaks on how passion, consistency, and sound business strategies transformed her dream into a thriving enterprise how Passion, Consistency, and Creativity Drive Success EXERPT

How It All Began

“I’ve always loved fashion,” Mrs. Ajadi began, her face glowing with pride. “Even as a child, I used to play around with fabrics and design dresses for fun. After secondary school, I decided to learn tailoring properly — not just as a hobby, but as a career path.”

With just one sewing machine, she started creating outfits for family and friends in Meiran. “The feedback was positive,” she recalls. “That gave me the confidence to name my brand Kiksy_Stitches and start taking the business seriously.

“Turning Passion into Enterprise

What began as a small neighborhood service quickly grew into a business as customers spread the word. “When people started paying for my designs, I realized this was more than just a skill — it was a business opportunity,” she said.

Driven by her vision to empower women through fashion, Mrs. Ajadi began treating her craft like a company — developing branding, registering her business, and learning how to manage finances.

“The biggest shift came when I realized that fashion is not just about sewing,” she explained. “It’s about creating an experience — giving clients confidence through what they wear.

”Overcoming Challenges

Like many Nigerian entrepreneurs, Mrs. Ajadi faced several obstacles, from lack of startup capital to limited access to modern equipment.

“Capital was my first challenge. I had to start small, reinvest my profits, and work long hours to meet orders. Another challenge was building trust — some clients doubted a young, local designer could deliver quality. But consistency changed that,” she says.

Today, Kiksy_Stitches has grown beyond Meiran, attracting clients from across Lagos and online. “Social media gave my brand visibility,” she noted. “Instagram and WhatsApp became my virtual shop window.

”Keys to Her Success

When asked about the secret behind her success, Mrs. Ajadi highlighted three principles: quality, consistency, and customer satisfaction.

“I tell my apprentices — your finishing is your advertisement. Clients will always remember good work. If you deliver on time and maintain quality, your business will grow through referrals,” she said.

She also stressed the importance of separating business funds from personal expenses. “Discipline is what sustains any entrepreneur. Save, reinvest, and stay focused.”

How did your journey into fashion begin?

I’ve always loved fashion. Growing up, I was fascinated by how a piece of fabric could be transformed into something beautiful. After secondary school, I decided to learn tailoring properly — not just as a hobby, but as a skill I could build a future with.

I started sewing in my mother’s sitting room in Meiran with just one sewing machine. I made outfits for friends and family, and their feedback gave me confidence. That’s how Kiksy_Stitches was born — from passion, patience, and a vision to grow beyond my small beginning.

What motivated you to build a business out of your skill?

At first, I was just sewing for people around me. But when customers began recommending me and I started getting steady orders, I realized this could become a real business.

The joy I saw on my clients’ faces whenever they wore my designs inspired me. I told myself — if I stay consistent, improve my finishing, and treat this work like a brand, it can become something big. That mindset changed everything.

What were your major challenges at the beginning?

Starting a fashion business in Lagos isn’t easy. My first challenge was capital — getting materials, buying good machines, and setting up a proper space required money I didn’t have at the time.

Another challenge was gaining people’s trust. Many clients doubted young designers. But I decided that my work would speak for me. I focused on neat finishing, good fabric choices, and timely delivery. Gradually, word spread, and more people began to trust my brand.

Staff management was another learning curve. As I grew and hired assistants, I had to learn leadership and customer service because one bad experience can damage your reputation.

How did you grow Kiksy_Stitches into a recognized brand?

The first step was to brand my business properly — name, logo, and social media presence. I registered the business officially and made sure clients saw me as a professional, not just a roadside tailor.

Social media played a big role. I started showcasing my designs on Instagram and WhatsApp. That visibility helped me reach customers beyond my community. I also invested in learning — attending workshops and upgrading my skills regularly.

Most importantly, I built my business around quality and trust. I deliver what I promise, and that’s what keeps clients coming back.

As an expert, what advice do you have for aspiring fashion entrepreneurs?

First, start small but start right. Don’t wait for everything to be perfect before you begin. I started with one machine, but today I run a growing fashion house with a team.

Second, learn the business side of fashion. Talent is good, but if you don’t understand pricing, record keeping, and customer management, your business won’t last.

Third, be consistent. Every brand you admire today was once a small dream that someone refused to give up on.

Finally, keep improving. Fashion evolves quickly. Learn new styles, trends, and finishing techniques. Never stop growing.

How do you maintain good customer relationships?

Customer service is everything. I treat every client with respect, whether they’re sewing a simple outfit or a bridal gown. I listen carefully, communicate clearly, and deliver on time.

A happy customer is your best marketing strategy. Most of my clients today come through referrals because I make sure everyone leaves satisfied.

What are your future goals for Kiksy_Stitches?

My dream is to turn Kiksy_Stitches into a full fashion training academy where young people, especially women, can learn and build sustainable careers.

I also plan to launch a ready-to-wear line to reach a wider market, both in Nigeria and internationally. Nigerian designers have so much creativity to offer — I want to be part of that global story.

What’s your personal definition of success as an entrepreneur?

Success, to me, isn’t just about profit — it’s about growth, impact, and purpose. A successful entrepreneur is someone who turns a skill into value, creates opportunities for others, and stays true to their vision no matter the challenges.

Every day I open my workshop, train my staff, and see satisfied clients, I feel fulfilled. That’s success for me.

Key Lessons from Mrs. Ajadi’s Entrepreneurial Journey

Start small, but start smart.

Build your business on integrity and quality.

Invest in continuous learning and self-improvement.

Treat customers as partners, not just buyers.

Separate business finances from personal money.

Stay patient, success takes time and consistency.

“Fashion is not just about sewing clothes,” Mrs. Ajadi concludes. “It’s about creating confidence, telling stories through fabric, and building something that empowers others. Every entrepreneur should remember small beginnings can lead to great success.”