Small fashion and tailoring businesses are a vital part of the local fashion industry. These businesses, often run by dedicated entrepreneurs contribute significantly to job creation, family support, and the economy.
However, one ongoing challenge is the underappreciation and underpayment of these businesses. As we begin a new year, it’s essential for Nigerians to recognize the immense value of these businesses and commit to paying them fairly for their work.
The Role of Small Fashion and Tailoring Businesses in Nigeria
Small tailoring and fashion businesses form the heart of Nigeria’s fashion sector, offering custom-made clothing, alterations, and repairs tailored to the unique needs of Nigerians. From vibrant Ankara prints to elegant traditional attire, Nigerian fashion is making waves globally. However, the hardworking tailors and designers who bring these garments to life, often running smaller businesses, are sometimes undervalued, despite their critical contributions.
These businesses provide livelihoods for many individuals and help preserve traditional craftsmanship. Whether it’s a tailor in Lagos, a designer in Abuja, or a seamstress in Kano, these artisans produce clothing that reflects the culture, style, and identity of Nigerians.
Why Fair Compensation Matters
One of the main struggles faced by small fashion businesses in Nigeria is the failure to receive fair compensation for their work. Many customers, often unaware of the time, skill, and effort involved in creating quality outfi, try to negotiate lower prices. This puts immense pressure on tailors and designers who already face rising material costs, rent, and other operational expenses. When customers refuse to pay fair prices, it can lead to financial strain for these small businesses.
Paying tailors and designers adequately is not just about covering their time and labor but also about recognizing their creativity and expertise. Given the rising costs they face, paying them fairly ensures that they can continue producing quality work and invest in growing their businesses.
Supporting the Local Economy
Paying small fashion businesses fairly isn’t just about individual transactions—it’s an investment in the local economy. Small businesses in the fashion sector are significant employers, hiring tailors, seamstresses, fabric suppliers, and other skilled workers. By supporting these businesses, you’re helping to create jobs and foster entrepreneurship. The more Nigerians value and fairly compensate the services of small tailors and designers, the more sustainable these businesses become, contributing to the broader economic growth.
How Customers Can Help Support Small Fashion and Tailoring Businesses
As customers, there are several ways you can support small fashion businesses in Nigeria, beyond just paying them fairly. Here are a few tips:
Respect Their Craftsmanship: You need to recognize the effort and skill involved in creating high-quality, custom-made clothing. Tailored outfits take more time and expertise than ready-made clothes, and this is reflected in the price. Avoid haggling unnecessarily—paying a fair price ensures you receive the best quality.
Communicate Clearly: Clearly communicate your expectations and requirements for your tailor or designer. Good communication helps ensure the final product meets your needs and saves time. Building a transparent relationship with your fashion designer ensures a smoother process.
Show Appreciation: A simple “thank you” or positive feedback can motivate small businesses. If you’re happy with their work, let others know and consider leaving a positive review. Word-of-mouth referrals are often essential for the growth of small businesses.
Be Patient and Respectful: Tailors and designers often handle several orders at once. Be patient with delivery times, and understand that quality work takes time. Rushing the process could compromise the final result. Respect their process to ensure the best outcome.
Refer Others: One of the most effective ways to support small businesses is through referrals. If you are satisfied with your tailor or designer’s work, recommend them to friends and family. Referrals can help small businesses gain new customers and expand their reach.
As the Nigerian fashion industry grows, it’s crucial that we acknowledge the significant role small fashion and tailoring businesses play. By paying these artisans fairly, we not only ensure that they can continue producing quality work but also contribute to the local economy and the preservation of Nigerian cultural heritage.
In 2025 and beyond, let’s prioritize fair compensation, appreciate the skill of our tailors and designers, and support the small businesses that help shape Nigeria’s vibrant fashion industry.
