Nigerians, traditionally known for their love of fashionable, custom-made designs, are gradually adjusting their style preferences due to the increasing prices of fashion accessories across the country.
A visit by the NAN to various markets in Lagos revealed a significant rise in the cost of tailoring materials. Designers and their customers expressed concerns over the impact of these price hikes on their businesses and spending habits.
At Oshodi Market, a key hub for wholesalers and retailers of tailoring supplies, prices for essential materials such as thread, zippers, dull face, taffeta, and Aba linings have surged by over 50%. Dull face, previously sold at N500, now costs N700, while taffeta has jumped from N800 to N1,100. A pack of thread that once sold for N500 now ranges between N800 and N1,000 depending on the brand.
A similar trend was observed at Idumota Market, known for its wide variety of trimmings and tailoring materials. The price increase there mirrors what is happening in other markets.
Several fashion designers shared their views on how rising costs are affecting the industry. Mrs. Yvonne Ideho, Creative Director of Yvonne’s Place in Ketu, Lagos, noted that the increased prices have reduced the profit margins in clothes-making.
“With the current situation in the country, profits from clothes-making have significantly declined compared to 2022 and early 2023,” Ideho said. “I try not to overcharge my customers just to stay in business, which is better than having no income at all.”
Similarly, Mrs. Omotola Gabriel, owner of Shiloh Stitches Fashion in Ikotun, reported a drop in customer patronage over the past two months. She explained that many customers who previously ordered multiple outfits per month now opt for fewer garments due to financial constraints.
“Business has been slow in recent months because of the rising cost of tailoring accessories. Some customers who used to make five or seven outfits a month now only order one or two,” Gabriel said. “When I reached out to a few clients, they told me they had more pressing needs to attend to. I remain hopeful that things will improve.”
Joseph Azubuike, a tailor who operates from his home in Igando, also reported a decrease in patronage from his female clients, who now prefer simpler, more affordable designs.
“My male clients still come to me regularly, but I used to earn more from sewing women’s outfits due to the intricate styles involved. Now, my female customers are opting for simple designs like boubou, which cost around N5,000, compared to the N20,000 or more I used to charge for accessorized dresses,” Azubuike explained.
Customers are also adjusting their fashion priorities. Mrs. Taiwo Oduwole, an accountant, shared that she has reduced the number of clothes she makes each month, focusing instead on household needs.
“My priority now is ensuring my children are well-fed and their school fees are paid. The last time I took clothes to my tailor was four months ago. I used to prefer outfits with accessories, which cost between N15,000 and N30,000, but feeding the family is more important at the moment,” Oduwole said.
Yewande Adekunle, a banker, echoed similar sentiments. She noted that while she still patronizes her tailor, she now opts for simpler, more affordable outfits.
“I no longer go for elaborate, well-accessorized outfits due to the high cost of sewing,” Adekunle said. “These days, I prefer simpler styles that fit within my budget.”
NAN
