It was enthralling, captivating, exciting and immensely business rewarding, as the GTCO fashion weekend came to an end. The much-anticipated two-day event has come and gone, and memories, experiences linger on.
Organised by Guaranty Trust Bank, the annual event had about 132 retailers exhibiting lingerie/swimwear, perfumes, skincare, hair products, makeup, men’s clothing, women’s clothing, accessories/jewellery, children’s clothing, luxury fashion and footwear at the GTCenter Oniru, Lagos.
Under the theme, ‘Fashion Is Freedom,’ the event established itself as a powerful platform, celebrating self-expression, identity, innovation, exploring fashion, not merely as art but as a vital instrument of empowerment and economic growth.
One thing that cannot be taken away from this carnival-like fair it’s the atmosphere of relaxation, creativity, colour, freedom, no inhibition and no age bracket. It embraced people of all ages, all eager to express themselves through fashion.
A gaily dressed grandmother of 75 years, Mrs Fumi Olajide, said she had not missed the Fair for four years now. “There is so much positive energy here. It reminds me of my younger days when I was living in the United States. I just love it here, the happy crowd, exhibitions and all.”
In an interview with the Chief Executive Officer of Glams fashion, Idara Essien, she said she started her brand five years ago and has been struggling to build her customer base, but participating in the 2023 fashion event gave her a big push. “This year is my second year. This event has exposed my brand very fast and increased my customer base. Just within two days, I have sold products worth over N500,000. This is the kind of money I make selling from my shop in Port Harcourt within a month.”
She said the Fair had allowed her to network and forge more collaborations. “Because of the high number of people that throng to the Fair, brands get exposed to a large crowd. The number of people who visited my stall just within two days does not even visit my shop in PH even in two months.”
Hillary Unachukwu, who deals in men’s accessories, was all full of appreciation for the organisers. “This is my first time participating, and it has exposed my brand to thousands of consumers.”
With his shops across major cities in Nigeria, he said he wished other companies could partner with GTCO to stretch the Fair to one week instead of just two days.
On how much sales he made within the two days, “I will not disclose the amount, but we made appreciable sales and will be grateful if God permits us to attend the next one coming up next year.”
Apart from retailers, there were many people who attended for various reasons. Miss Kaima Onu and her group of friends from the University of Lagos said they came just to chill out and view the latest fashion trends.
“It is an avenue for fun without paying, as attendance is free. We just finished our tests, and what better way to relax and network for free if not like this. We were here yesterday and enjoyed the masterclasses and the runway fashion displays.”