Spotlight Session— Meet Debbie Kouture
We had a fireside chat with Deborah Adepitan, he tells us about his creative journey while detailing his wins, losses and lessons he picked up along the way.
Spotlight Sessions is a platform where we get into the lives of creatives and talk about their unique creative journeys and growth processes.
Adepitan Deborah, an emerging Fashion designer who is passionate about adorning women of different sizes with all confidence, poise, and elegance to run the world, is the subject in this session.
Enjoy Precious Ewuji's exciting discussion with her.
How are you doing, Deborah?
I am good.
That's great. "Debbie Kouture"” how did you come about the name? Tell us
Okay. I started my fashion journey officially in 2018 after I made my birthday dresses for my shoot. I came on WhatsApp and asked people to suggest brand names for me. I remember I got answers from many people 'Debbie stitches', 'Debbie needles', etc. But one got my attention, Debbie couture. It wasn't what I had heard, and it wasn't as popular as it is now. So I changed mine to K to be different. COUTURE - means high fashion.
Osheyyyyy!!!! Creativity at its peak. 🔥Beautiful. 🌟
Tell us about your education as a fashion designer. Who taught you? What was even the drive to be a fashion designer?
Well, I attended a fashion school for two months, but I couldn’t meet up because they had already started their session, then I moved to a local shop and learned for a year.
My passion for fashion started in childhood. I loved matching clothes, even as a child. Most times, if I wanted to wear pink, I ensured that I stood out. Also, I love Modeling. I thought that was what I would have been.
Beautiful. The result is quite beautiful. 😍 Well done. I hope you're not too tensed.😂😁
How do you stay up-to-date on the latest fashion trends?
Fashion is wide. Fashion keeps evolving from time to time. As a designer, I ensure that I learn, unlearn and relearn. I follow many designers I admire and learn from their pages. Internet research is also a powerful way of upgrading your skills, and I use it.
You're pretty intelligent. I love how you answer questions. ❤️
Who is your role model in the fashion world?
Omo! This is tough. I admire a lot of designers. Just so you know, NIGERIAN designers are so good. 😊 To mention a few, Veekeejames, Tianah empire place, Tubo, etc.
There is this uniqueness I have noticed in each designer's craft. Something always makes them stand out and make their designs defined.
Very true. I agree with you.
You know, in this job, criticisms come from every corner. Even those who don't know anything about your craft would criticize you.
How do you handle criticisms?
Omo! Four years in business no be beans. I have gained customers, and I have lost some, but I stay focused. There are a lot of times I would make dresses, and they would come out so well, but there are also some few times that you will be like, "shey na village people dey follow me? Abi I don offend someone?" 😂 Firstly, once I realize I have done something wrong, I would apologize to the customer and sometimes opt-out for a refund.
Then, this is where courage and persistence come in. I will ensure I do that particular style again (No be me you go shame again😂). Sometimes I cry myself to sleep, but once I wake, I rise with all zeal, "No! I am not a failure" vibe.
Criticism is allowed in business; it helps you know the areas you are lacking and where to channel your energy. Constructive criticism, shows that the person wants the best for you and your brand.
Yasssss!!! 💪🏻
Right. ❤️
Beware of destructive criticism. They can’t do it but hate what you are doing. Once I notice someone with this energy, omo na japa. No pour sand for my garri.
What has been your most outstanding achievement so far?
It’s the Bigi contest I went for last year . I left FUOYE for Lagos to compete with Lagos designers, and I won!🥺
Omo, I remember how nervous I was when I was traveling down to Lagos .
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Star girl doinggsssssssss.
I must say, i found the news shocking 🥺
It's been nice speaking with you, Deborah. Your story is inspiring.
It was nice sharing my story.♥️ Watch out for DEBBIE KOUTURE. I didn't come to play! Gofd with us.♥️ Thank you so much FCH. It’s an honour
Ese gan.♥️
What advice do you have for upcoming fashion designers?
I am still upcoming. Don’t give up on your dreams. ♥️ I am not giving up on mine. Why would you? 🥺
Energy!
We're rooting for you.
Shout-out to all the creatives here.😍
The works of our hands is blessed.😇
Thank you for doing this with us.
We love you and we are rooting for you — immensely.
Love,
FCH. ❤️
An undergraduate of Theatre and Media Arts, Federal University Oye-Ekiti. Adepitan Deborah is an emerging Fashion designer who is passionate about adorning women of different sizes with all confidence, poise and elegance to rule their world.
She currently runs a fashion label, Debbie Kouture which focuses on fashion and style creation for women. She specializes in ready to wear, Asoebi, Bridals bespoke tailoring services, styling & wardrobe consultation.
Her works have been featured in different runways and across Nigeria such as Ekiti Fashion Exhibition 2021, Lagos Fashion Show 2022 among others.
Debbie won Best Showcasing Designer Bigi Nigeria contest 2021, Best Enterprising Student 2021(FUOTAMSA),
Best Stylist Of The Year 2021 (EKSSA),
Best female student fashion designer of the year 2021(EFE).
You can reach her on Instagram via @debbie_kouture