SPOTLIGHT: Mayowa Akinbinu, the designer redefining bridal fashion

Akinbinu Mayowa Osayemi is a Lagos-based fashion consultant, designer, and the CEO of May_handss. She can bring any fabric to life with her deft touch and innovative creativity. An accountant turned fashion guru, she describes her style as a fusion of elegance, sophistication, and a touch of whimsy. In this interview with TheCable Lifestyle, Mayowa talks about her love for bridal fashion, ‏her challenges, and what she hopes to achieve in the long run.

TheCable Lifestyle: You studied accounting, what then inspired you to pursue a career as a fashion designer?

Mayowa: I obtained a National Diploma (ND) in Accounting from The Polytechnic Ibadan. I also earned my Higher National Diploma (H.N.D) in Accounting from The Federal Polytechnic Ado-Ekiti.

Despite my background in accounting, my passion for fashion led me to pursue a fashion upgrade course at the esteemed Prudential Fashion Academy, one of the leading fashion schools in Africa. My love for fashion designing blossomed at a young age, particularly at age 13 when I created a dress for myself using hand stitches (Needle and thread).

Over the years, my inspiration stems from renowned designers such as Alonoko Bridals, Prudent Gabriel, and Valdrin Sahiti, as well as the gratification I receive when individuals wear my designs.

TheCable Lifestyle: How has the experience been so far?

Mayowa: The experience of being a fashion designer has been incredibly multifaceted. It has been a mix of challenges, continuous learning, inspiration, and creativity. Each day presents new challenges, opportunities for growth, and moments of inspiration.

It is not just about creating beautiful garments, it is about constantly educating myself on the latest trends, techniques, and technologies in the fashion industry. Every project I undertake is a learning journey, whether experimenting with new fabrics or mastering intricate stitching patterns. Moreover, being a fashion designer is not just a profession but a lifestyle.

It is about immersing myself in the world of fashion, drawing inspiration from art, culture, and everyday life, and channeling that creativity into my designs. Despite the challenges, the sheer joy of bringing my visions to life and seeing the smiles on my clients’ faces makes every hurdle worthwhile.

TheCable Lifestyle: What kind of clothes are you more comfortable with designing and why?

Mayowa: While I am versatile in bringing any design to life, including casual wear, formal attire, and Asoebi, I find myself increasingly comfortable designing bridal wear such as wedding gowns and bridal robes. Last year, I debuted my first bridal collection, which garnered widespread admiration from my clients and the online community.

TheCable Lifestyle: What makes your style unique; where do you draw inspiration from?

Mayowa: My style as a fashion designer is characterized by a fusion of elegance, sophistication, and a touch of whimsy. What sets my designs apart is the meticulous attention to detail and the incorporation of my signature elements into each garment.

Whether it is a delicate embroidery motif, a unique draping technique, or an unexpected pop of color, I strive to imbue every piece with a sense of individuality and personality. My inspiration comes from a myriad of sources, ranging from the natural world to art, culture, and even everyday experiences.

I find inspiration in the vibrant colors of a sunset, the intricate patterns of a traditional textile, or the graceful movements of a dancer. By drawing from such diverse influences, I can infuse my designs with depth, meaning, and a timeless appeal.

TheCable Lifestyle: As a fashion designer, what do you find most rewarding about your profession?

Mayowa: One of the most rewarding aspects of being a fashion designer is the ability to create something tangible and meaningful from mere ideas and concepts. There is a profound sense of satisfaction that comes from seeing a sketch on paper transform into a beautiful garment that someone wears and cherishes.

Another satisfaction I derive from fashion designing is doing what I love and making a living out of it. It’s immensely gratifying to see individuals wearing and appreciating my creations.

The creative process itself is incredibly fulfilling, from brainstorming initial concepts to sourcing fabrics, pattern-making, and finally bringing the design to life. Moreover, fashion has the power to evoke emotions, tell stories, and empower individuals. To know that my designs can make someone feel confident, beautiful, and empowered is truly gratifying.

Whether it’s a bride walking down the aisle in one of my wedding gowns or a professional woman exuding confidence in a tailored suit, knowing that I’ve played a small part in enhancing someone’s life through fashion is the ultimate reward.

TheCable Lifestyle: What challenges have you faced so far and how did you overcome them?

Mayowa: In the early stages of my career, one of the challenges I encountered was selecting a unique and meaningful name for my brand. Initially, my brand was known as ‘Mayflower,’ although it was not officially registered. After completing my upgrade course at the fashion school, I decided on ‘Mayhandss,’ derived from the first three letters of my name, ‘Mayowa.’

TheCable Lifestyle: What are your hopes and aspirations for your profession in the long run?

Mayowa: Looking ahead, I aspire to continue evolving as a fashion designer, pushing the boundaries of creativity, and making a lasting impact in the fashion industry. I aim to expand my brand globally, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria through my designs and inspiring aspiring fashion enthusiasts along the way.