The Curvy Black Fashionista: Ten:10 edition 6: Urban knite

I don't remember where I found this designer but I do remember what I felt when I saw her accessories collection... Although using ankara with everyday ready-wear is nothing new, I couldn't help but think what a good idea it was to use it on clutches...

....I have always been a strong supporter of the saying "less is more"...and when it comes to Ankara ready-wear I can't stress that enough.

I find UrbanKnit clutches are the perfect accessories to brighten up or (I know this isn't a word :P) Africanise an outfit.

and If you don't know by now whenever I find something new and like it...I want to know more about it and feel the need to share it....check out my interview with UrbanKnit

Enjoy!!!xxxx

1. Who is Urbanknit? (brand and person)

Urbanknit is an independent label established to create one-of-a-kind handmade fashion accessories in the broad categories of bags and scarves.

The brand gives an interesting twist to what is considered to be traditional, be it wool, African print or batik. We believe that the beautiful unusual things out of Africa should be celebrated. In our small way, we promote the universal appeal of African art and craft.

2. How did you start your company?

Dolapo James, our creative designer is an architect who turned her hobby into a part-time endeavour. Urbanknit eventually became a successful full time business with products available online and in select boutiques.

3. Where can someone purchase your collections?

Stores

•Anthropologie (London)

158 Regent Street London, W1B 5SW, United Kingdom

•Tae (Lagos)

15b, Oduduwa Way, off Isaac John Street, GRA Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria

Online

•Etsy: www.urbanknit.etsy.com

•The Shop Floor Project: www.theshopfloorproject.com

•Not on The Highstreet: www.notonthehighstreet.com/urbanknit

•Nixey and Godfrey: www.nixeyandgodfrey.com

•MyAsho: www.myasho.com

4. Who is your ideal customer?

The person who appreciates our pieces and wears them with style. Being quirky means our friends and fans come from all over; from Surrey to Singapore and everywhere in between. Thus, giving our brand a global identity which is interpreted (style-wise) in very interesting ways.

5. Who is your creative designer?

Dolapo James

6. How and where do you manufacture your products?

All Urbanknit pieces are handmade by Dolapo James. The bags are produced in limited runs for exclusivity. Close attention is paid to the production and finishing of each item to ensure their durability and overall quality.

As the company has a studio in Nigeria and in the UK they are made in either country depending on our work calendar.

7. What inspires your designs?

Simplicity and contrast

8. What roles do you or your employees/ partners play from the creation to the selling aspect of this brand?

Dolapo James is the sole creative designer / CEO and Moyo Aderemi is the Public Relations and Brand Manager. Together we make creative and marketing decisions that shape this growing business.

9. 9. As an up and coming (Nigerian) designers what are your biggest challenges?

Challenging the perception that things made in Nigeria or by Nigerians or with Nigerian fabric are not of a good quality which it certainly can be and is.

10 What advise can you give to people that wish to pursue a career like yours?

Learn as much as you can. Everything, whether good or bad, is always a learning experience that you will refer to in years to come.

Patience and diligence; there will be challenges along the way but if you enjoy what you do and believe in your brand then you have to keep going no matter what, even on those days when you don’t feel particularly inspired or creative.