BY FELICIA AWOYEMI
In the vibrant world of fashion, few stories are as compelling and inspirational as that of Temitope Olorunfemi, the Kogi State Nigerian-born fashion designer who is widely known by her design name, Tuntop Fashion. Temitope’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a global fashion sensation is a testament to her determination, creativity, and relentless pursuit of excellence.
Early Life and Initial Spark
Temitope’s story begins in Kaduna Nigeria, where she was born but raised in Benin Edo State. Her innate creativity was evident from a young age, influenced heavily by her mother, who was a multi-talented individual with skills in baking, creative decorations, and hairdressing. Temitope’s artistic talent showed early when she won the Nestle Art drawing competition at the age of eight. This early recognition set the stage for a lifetime of creative exploration.
Discovering Fashion Design
While studying sociology at the University of Abuja, Temitope’s creative instincts led her to fashion design. It was during her mandatory National Youth Service at Owan L.G.A in Edo State that she decided to learn sewing. This decision, initially sparked by the need for a new hobby, quickly became a passion. Temitope’s natural talent for design and her commitment to learning propelled her forward.
Establishing Tuntop Fashion
After completing her one year National Youth Service, Temitope established her own tailoring outlet at the Abuja Ultra-Modern Shopping Complex in Garki, Abuja, Nigeria in 2012. Her unique designs and dedication to excellence quickly attracted a large clientele. Temitope’s move to Lagos in 2013, following her marriage, did not slow her down. Instead, she expanded her reach, gaining customers from across the globe, including the U.S., UK, Australia, Canada, and Ghana.
Growth and Expansion
Temitope’s brand, Tuntop Fashion, became synonymous with excellence and class. Her bespoke fashion designs brought out the best in her clients, earning her widespread acclaim from her operation base in Lagos Nigeria. In 2015, she took a significant step by launching the Tuntop Fashion Academy, which has since trained over 100 women & girls, simplifying the art of design and inspiring a new generation of fashion entrepreneurs.
Temitope’s attention to detail, mastery of various fabrics, and understanding of diverse fashion design practice have set her apart in the fashion industry. Her innovative designs and strong business acumen have earned her numerous accolades and recognition.
Rising to the Occasion During COVID-19
During the COVID-19 pandemic, when global supply chains were disrupted, Temitope worked alongside local fashion designers to promote the use of face masks as an alternative. This initiative was crucial at a time when masks were in short supply due to the global lockdown. Her leadership and community spirit shows through as she helped meet a critical need.
Recognizing the economic challenges brought about by the pandemic, Temitope began offering online training to women at highly discounted prices. She understood that acquiring new skills during the lockdown would be profitable in the long run, enabling women to turn their economic situations around. Furthermore, she promoted a support system that encouraged female entrepreneurs to support and promote each other’s businesses by cross platform advertisement at no additional cost to all members. This initiative enjoyed huge success during the lockdown, fostering a sense of community and mutual support among women entrepreneurs.
Global Recognition and Continued Education
In 2019,Tuntop Fashion Academy gained fashion industry recognition and was nominated for the Maya Award Africa as the Fashion Training Brand of the year,2019 although Tuntop did not win that year, her perseverance paid off when Tuntop Fashion was awarded the Top Fashion Design and Fashion School of the Year in Lagos State on April 17, 2024 organized by Top Notch Nigeria Business & Professionals Award 2024.
To further hone her Fashion business leadership skills and gain international exposure, Temitope completed a Master’s degree in Fashion Management from Birmingham City University in 2023. Her global presence was further established with the launch of a new fashion brand, Trentfash Limited (www.trentfash.com), in the UK in February 2024, a venture that has quickly gaining recognition for its ready-to-wear outfits promote Africa reach heritage infused in modern western wears in the International Fashion stage.
Commitments Beyond Fashion
Temitope’s talents and achievements extend beyond fashion. In 2023, she was awarded the “Beyond and Above” award at her workplace. In June 2024, she published a book titled “Graceful Encounters,” which shares simplified and inspirational stories of notable biblical figures. The book has been well-received and is available on Amazon and other platforms.
Temitope’s commitment to her faith and community is evident through her promotion to the leadership board of TOCI, a faith-based inspirational organization, due to her dedication to promoting inspirational values beyond Fashion design.
Conclusion
Temitope’s journey from a young girl with a passion for creativity to a globally recognized fashion designer is a story of perseverance, innovation, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Her ability to transform a simple hobby into a thriving business that impacts many lives is truly inspirational. As she continues to push the boundaries of fashion and inspire future generations, Temitope remains hungry for more, embodying the spirit of a true visionary and leader in the global fashion industry. You can reach out to Temitope on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/temitope_olorunfemi?igsh=MW5paGtqcDQwcHlmbA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
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