Femi Adeyemi is the ambivalent founder and creative head of the eclectic fashion brand FEMY T.O.Y.S, a radically distinct men’s fashion line steadily emerging out of Lagos to the global fashion stage. A self-acclaimed chartered tailor possessing a professional vestige in fashion artistry that extends over half a decade, his journey has been a mix of appreciating minimalism arts and tailoring imbibed through the delicate study of fashion maestros whose specialty designs influence his workmanship.

Today, it is clear that he has reached a new stage in his career and has moved from the ranks of emerging talents to established designers. In this interview, Mr. Adeyemi speaks on what matters to him most, his passion, and the pressures that come with being a designer

What inspired you to go into fashion?

My journey into the ever-evolving cutthroat world of fashion was born out of an innocent fascination with the entire process that comes with bringing a garment to life. Right after I graduated from college, it was quite a challenge getting admission into a higher institution of learning and being a naturally ambitious person who desired a future of being a financial custodian, an accountant. With the support of my parents who advised that I enrolled to be ICAN certified while I worked on gaining admission into the university.

My fascination with fashion began when I was invited to a designer’s factory to pick up a merchandise I had paid for two months earlier. The entire process of seeing how garments were created was quite a thrill that soon became the catalyst that prompted me out of inquisitiveness to want to start my own label. I interned at some couple of places to garner skills, experience and also learn the trick of the trade to staying in business. While this excitement was on, I spent more time on wanting to be a designer over the quest to being an accountant. But I am both today and I am extremely thankful for how far I have come. With eight collections to our credit, two of which introduced the brand into mainstream fashion, it’s been one of a kind journey of sacrifices, persistence and determination.

How long have you been in the fashion business?

I’ve been into fashion for almost a decade but professionally; I’ll say 5 years.

What are some of the experiences in the sector?

I like to see my experience as an adventure. I love the fact that I’m able to discover varying stratas of fashion and it’s components. As a leading menswear brand that has grown through the thick layers of fashion; my experience is boundless. I’ve worked with different designers on catwalk shows; done a collaborative lookbook, groomed aspiring designers; worked with different industry creatives and a judge for a beauty pageant to mention a few.

What do you think about the Nigerian fashion industry, has it developed compared to when it started?

A lot of notable transformations has shapen the Nigerian fashion industry. We have evolved from the era of basic symmetrical designs to exploring new trends and up to the minute fashion and style. The use of modern technology and digital production process has helped locally produced clothing items durable for exportation and compete in the global market.
We also have a lot of amazing talents and emerging designers who have chosen fashion as a career part as opposed to pursuing a white collar job.

What would you describe as the turning point in your career and life ?

The release of my Geometry collection launched the FemyToys label into the spotlight. It had an overwhelming media attention, public acceptance and we automatically became the most sought after menswear brand. We’ve maintained a deep rooted penchant for extra detailing with a third eye quality control check before product delivery. This consistency has helped us remain relevant and a go to brand.

You were about the few designers that was opportune to showcased at the African Movie Academy Awards fashion event. How does that feel?

Showcasing my collection on a huge platform like AMAA with the caliber of audience and industry giants that graced the show is a thrill in the heart. I was able to network and expand the brand’s reach through the colorful display of art and expertise at play.

Can you tell us about the collection you showcased?

Our SS23 Collection is tagged MADE IN AFRICA. My team and I imported different African cultures into the looks of this collection and that served as the primary inspiration behind the looks.
In it’s simplest form; the creative director (myself) makes a deliberate attempt at correcting the embarrassment models suffer when they accidentally trip or fall while strutting the runway.

Inspired by Beate karlsson but with a different narrative; we infused a fake fall aimed at encouraging the audience to enliven the models rather than make a mockery of them.

We need to boost their self esteem. The world will be a better place when we support each other even at our worst moments.