Ohimai
Atafo popularly known as Mai Atafo is a Creative Director in one of the leading
fashion brands in Nigeria. His sojourn into the fashion industry began in 2007
after the completion of his Masters Degree in Information System and Technology
at City University, London. Mai once worked at the Marketing Department,
British American Tobacco Nigeria and later as the Brand Manager at Guinness
Nigeria before his debut into the fashion world. His brand Mai Atafo Inspired
specialises in wedding dresses, suits. He spoke with Yinka Lawal about some of
the fashion trends, his thought on the fashion industry and other issues
How would you describe Nigeria's fashion industry since you
joined?
Fashion industry has been doing fine and actively as well. I
will rate it on the scale of 90% compared to what we used to have before now.
Within a short period you have made a remarkable success in
the fashion industry. What is the secret?
Not only me, but it depends on the response people give back
to you. Anyway, I don't think I have achieved a lot compared to what I want to
achieve. But all I've been able to achieve is due to the glory of God and
people that have been supporting me as customers. They have made me who I am
today.
As a fashion Icon,
what does it mean to be fashionable?
I think that is very subjective, because everybody is
fashionable in their one right. So, there is no common ground to say this is
fashionable or this is not fashionable.
How would you evaluate
the industry since the journey began?
Absolutely fantastic and I think we are making talents that
can actually rule the world of fashion. But we just need support.
What is trending now?
Unfortunately, I do not follow trends, so I don't know what's
happening for now. But in terms of how you should look, everybody has what they
are comfortable with. That you always wear native attires doesn't mean you are
not fashionable compared to someone that likes to wear suits. Former president
of Nigeria, Goodluck Jonathan wears South-South attire, single colour all the
time. Is he fashionable? I think he is. So, there is no right or wrong. Look at
that man who wore buba and snickers. Is he fashionable? I think he is. Is he
wrong, you may say yes! So, it's subjective.