Jumoke Shotonwa, a graduate of Obafemi Awolowo University with a degree in Political Science, is the Founder and CEO of Kwasee Style Company, a Lagos-based fashion styling brand. She started the company in 2017 while still a university student, driven by her passion for fashion and helping women feel confident in their outfits.
The Inspiration Behind Kwasee Style Company
In an exclusive interview with Just4WomenAfrica, Jumoke shared that her love for fashion and styling was the driving force behind her brand. She described herself as a “fashion girl” who could change outfits seven to eight times before heading to class, just to find the perfect look that boosted her confidence.
Her keen eye for style didn’t go unnoticed. Friends, classmates, and church members frequently complimented her outfits and sought her advice on fashion. Realizing that she had a natural talent for styling, she decided to turn it into a business—thus, Kwasee Style Company was born.
The Meaning Behind “Kwasee”
Many assume “Kwasee” is a Ghanaian name, but Jumoke explained that it originates from Benue State, Nigeria, where her mother is from. Her Benue name, “Tokwasee,” means “woman,” and she decided to shorten it to “Kwasee” as a perfect fit for her brand, which is dedicated to styling women.
Styling Services Offered by Kwasee Style Company
Kwasee Style Company offers a wide range of styling services, including:
- Bridal styling
- Personal styling
- Wardrobe management
- Commercial styling for brands and businesses
Jumoke is particularly passionate about personal styling and weddings, which she considers her favorite occasions to style.
Keeping Up with Fashion Trends
When asked how she keeps up with changing fashion trends, Jumoke noted that trends come and go, and Kwasee Style Company does not rely heavily on them. Instead, she focuses on timeless, confidence-boosting styles, while still staying informed through social media and fashion networks.
Challenges of Running a Styling Business in Nigeria
Starting and running a business in Nigeria comes with its challenges. For Kwasee Style Company, these include:
- Unstable power supply
- Difficulty in hiring the right staff
To tackle staffing issues, she introduced short-term contracts, allowing employees to work for six months or less, which has proven to be an effective strategy for managing a growing business.
The Growth and Future of Kwasee Style Company
Jumoke credits God, collaborations, and client referrals for the steady growth of her brand in Nigeria’s highly competitive fashion industry. She believes that Nigerian fashion stands out globally due to its creativity.
Looking ahead, Kwasee Style Company aims to expand across Africa and internationally, especially through virtual styling services, making professional fashion advice accessible to women around the world.
Jumoke’s Fashion Advice
When asked about a must-have fashion item every woman should own, she confidently said: “A pair of sunglasses.”
With her vision, dedication, and passion for empowering women through fashion, Jumoke Shotonwa is truly shaping the future of styling in Africa and beyond.
