The Talent Pool: B-Side by Wale Adeyemi
Catch a Vibe is introducing The Talent Pool, which highlights talent in London’s fashion industry.
Wale Adeyemi’s clients include Alicia Keys, Mos Def, Beyoncé, Missy Elliott and the Beckhams.
He is an ambassador for the Prince’s Trust, owns his own clothing label and in 2008 was bestowed with a MBE.
Wale discusses the inspiration behind his designs, his Nigerian heritage and his future projects.
CAV: You describe your label B-side as “somewhere between the kerb and the boutique”, could you elaborate on that?
Wale Adeyemi: It means I’m inspired by both streetwear and high end fashion. It’s a kind of chameleon vibe mixing the two approaches.
CAV: Children from a Nigerian heritage are often expected by their parents to be lawyers and accountants. How did your family feel about you pursuing a career in the creative industry, in particular, fashion?
Wale Adeyemi: My pops wasn’t happy at all, in fact he was very disappointed when he realised my career path – but he’s cool with it now.
CAV: Through your work as an ambassador for the Prince’s Trust, how important is it to you that your work and you yourself contribute to London’s creative future?
Wale Adeyemi: It’s really just about London and about the youth in general. There are so many creative and talented people emerging, they just need the right guidance and direction.
CAV: How do you make the most of your position as an ambassador for Prince’s Trust to motivate and inspire youth culture?
Wale Ayedemi: I try to speak to and also lend my ears to as many people as I can. It’s not all about talking; sometimes it’s just about reaching out and listening to their thoughts and questions.
CAV: At the time when you entered your profession were there any people of colour, if not, how did you deal with that and what kept you going?
Wale Ayedemi: There were very few, but notably Joe Casely-Hayford was one designer who made me realise the dream could turn into reality. After seeing his achievements and seeing how he had built his business I realised it was all possible.
CAV: It is undeniable that London has been a great influence to your work, but how much, if any, has your Nigerian background influenced your work both creatively and business wise?
Wale Ayedemi: London has had a major influence on my work as the city has become a melting pot of so many cultures and that’s very inspiring. My first three collections were African inspired and I started buying fabrics from Nigeria and making the garments here in the UK. I then started making shirts in Nigeria and wholesaleing in the UK – I sold loads.
CAV: What is your opinion of current and emerging black British talent?
WA: There is lots of talent emerging daily and it’s a great time! I find it very exciting.
CAV: How did it feel to receive an MBE?
Wale Ayedemi: Awesome! I was very, very proud; it’s been such a journey.
CAV: Where is your MBE now, somewhere sitting proudly on your mother’s cabinet?
Wale Ayedemi: Exactly. My mum actually came with me [to the ceremony] and she loved it.
CAV: Prince’s Trust and MBE, what else is on the horizon for Mr Adeyemi?
Wale Ayedemi: I’ve just recently launched the online store b-sidebywale.com which is doing very well. My next mission is to do something in Nigeria, for example I would love to open a store there. So if theres anyone out there that can make it happens reach out!
