Our goal not just to produce garments, but build manufacturing ecosystem — Omobolanle Olawole, Modish Formals CEO

Omobolanle Olawole is the Chief Executive Officer of Modish Formals, Abuja. In this interview with ROTIMI IGE, she speaks about how she turned the industrial garment factory business into a global brand, and how she has been revolutionising the sector with creative leadership. 

At what point did you identify the opportunity to create Modish Formals as a specialised corporate and industrial garment brand?

The opportunity became clear after years of working with corporate clients through our fashion house, Mo’Afrique. Many organisations approached us not just for bespoke garments, but for structured corporate wear and functional uniforms that reflected their brand identity. We realised that while Nigeria has many talented tailors, very few brands operate at the intersection of design, brand identity, and industrial-scale garment production.

Organisations needed uniforms that were not only well-made but also consistent, durable, and aligned with their corporate image. Modish Formals was created to bridge that gap, a brand dedicated entirely to corporate, institutional, and industrial garments produced with the same design integrity we apply to fashion.

You mention that uniforms are an extension of a brand’s identity. How do you balance modern design with the rigid functional demands of industrial workwear?

For us, the balance begins with deep understanding of the work environment. A uniform for a bank executive, a hospitality team, and a factory technician cannot follow the same design logic. Our approach is what we call ‘functional’. The garments must first meet operational requirements; durability, movement, weather adaptability, and safety. Once those foundations are established, we integrate modern silhouettes, refined finishing, and thoughtful design elements that elevate the garment…