How to get into a fashion school in Lagos: schools, fees and useful tips

Numerous people can agree that the fashion industry in Nigeria is iconic. Nigerians are known for wearing styles that are characteristic of their tribal society and customs. The industry is ever-growing, meaning there are multiple opportunities for young people who are passionate about fashion. Find out how to get into a fashion school in Lagos to make your dreams come true. Susan Fawehinmi, Creative Director of WOW Fashion School, sheds light on what it takes to get into fashion school, common challenges students face, and how they can make the most of their education to thrive in the competitive world of fashion design.

Learning how to get into a fashion school in Lagos is important, especially if you dream of working in the city's fashion industry. The Nigerian fashion industry has admirable figures, including Mai Atafo, Ade Bakare, Lisa Folawiyo, Toyin Lawani, and Deola Sagoe.

Qualifications required for fashion schools in Lagos

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In an interview, Susan Fawehinmi, Creative Director of WOW Fashion School, highlighted standard entry requirements for getting into a fashion school in Lagos. They include:

1. Passion for fashion: Susan said this is the foremost criterion required from a student; she added that individuals must possess a demonstrated interest or enthusiasm for fashion design and related fields.
2. Primary education: A secondary school certificate (WAEC or NECO) is usually sufficient. However, some schools may admit students with lower qualifications if they are apprentices.
3. Portfolio (optional): Some schools request a portfolio of sketches or sample works to evaluate creativity.
4. Application fee and interview: Susan explained that most fashion schools in Lagos require a fee during admission. She explained:

(Interviews) is to ascertain the level a student is, if they have prior knowledge of fashion. So the school can determine where to place them.

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Challenges students face in Lagos fashion schools

Susan shared some set of hurdles individuals studying fashion in Lagos may encounter:

1. Financial constraints: Tuition fees and the cost of materials such as fabrics and sewing machines can be a significant burden for students.
2. Access to quality tools and resources: Limited modern equipment or software availability can restrict learning.
3. Time management: Lagos’s fast-paced daily lifestyle and atmosphere often make it difficult for students to balance training with personal commitments.
4. Networking: Building a solid network in Lagos' competitive fashion industry can be challenging.
5. Finding the right school: With many fashion schools, selecting one that aligns with a student’s goals and location can be overwhelming.

What career opportunities await Lagos fashion school graduates?

Susan said graduates from fashion schools can pursue the following careers:

• Fashion designer
• Pattern maker or tailor
• Fashion stylist or consultant
• Textile designer
• Fashion illustrator
• Entrepreneur (owning a fashion brand or boutique)

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Susan also emphasized the importance of a fashion school’s reputation:

• Networking opportunities: Prestigious schools often offer access to mentors, alumni networks, and events.
• Job placement: Employers often prioritize graduates from renowned institutions.
• Skill development: Top schools invest in cutting-edge facilities, faculty, and industry partnerships, enhancing learning outcomes.

By choosing a reputable school and maximizing their time there, students can prepare for a successful and rewarding career in fashion.

Expert tips

Areas of focus in Lagos fashion schools curriculum

Susan shares key focus areas embedded in fashion schools in Lagos to ensure a complete experience by combining a blend of creative and practical skills. They are:  

1. Pattern making and sewing techniques: Essential technical skills for garment production.
2. Fabric selection and handling: Understanding different textiles and materials.
3. Design and illustration: Sketching and creating original designs.
4. Fashion entrepreneurship: Business skills such as marketing, branding, and pricing.
5. Trend analysis: Staying updated on local and global fashion trends.
6. Digital tools: Training in software like Adobe Illustrator and CAD for design.

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How students can succeed fashion education

Susan also provided practical advice for aspiring designers:

1. Practice consistently: Regular practice is vital to mastering sewing, design, and pattern-making skills.
2. Network actively: Attend fashion shows, exhibitions, and workshops to connect with industry professionals.
3. Stay updated: Keep up with global fashion trends and technology advancements.
4. Be open to criticism: Constructive feedback from mentors and peers will improve you.
5. Build a portfolio: Document your projects and designs to showcase your growth, creativity, and sketchbooks.
6. Seek internships: Gain real-world experience in fashion houses.

How to get into a fashion school in Lagos

Most fashion schools require you to submit proof that you completed high school or an equivalent. This means that most fashion schools will require you to present your academic certificates and transcripts. Below is all you should know about fashion schools in Lagos.

Top fashion schools in Lagos and their fees

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Lagos is home to multiple fashion schools, each with a unique reputation. Some have been operational for many years, while others are relatively new. Below is a list of fashion schools in Lagos.

GMYT Fashion Academy Lagos

GMYT Fashion Academy is the recipient of the Nigeria Entrepreneurs Award For Most Outstanding Fashion Academy of the Year award. The institution is among the fashion schools in Lagos with accommodation. Accommodation fee is paid separately.

The institution is located on 18A Grace Anjous Drive off road 14 ETI-OSA, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos, Nigeria. GMYT Fashion Academy offers multiple courses with varying tuition fees.

• GMYT Consult - ₦200,000
• Fundamentals in Fashion Design - ₦1,290,000
• Advance Fashion Course - ₦2,580,000
• Nitch Course - ₦800,000
• GMYT Business of Fashion - ₦2,000,000

LegsApparel Fashion School

LegsApparel is a leading fashion school in Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Lagos. It is at this school that young talents find the expertise, know-how, and experience to become professionals in the field of fashion.

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At LegsApparel Fashion School, students get comprehensive and dynamic training at beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels. Below is a quick breakdown of the LegsApparel Fashion School fees.

• Basic programme - ₦105,000
• Intermediary programme - ₦190,000
• Advanceprogramme - ₦250,000
• Pattern Making and Drafting - ₦120,000
• Fashion Cendeavorsded Design - ₦180,000
• Fashion Entrepreneurship - ₦100,000
• Sustainable Fashion - ₦100,000

Precious Apparel Fashion Academy

Precious Apparel Fashion Academy is located on 3rd Avenue 31 Road Opposite D Close Gowon estate, By Chalix place, Egbeda, Lagos 100276, Nigeria. The institution offers different courses. The Precious Apparel Fashion Academy fees vary depending on the course you choose to pursue.

Veekee James Fashion Academy

Veekee James is a famous fashion designer and pro makeup artist. Her passion for fashion started in secondary school. She was raised by a fashion designer. Today, she runs Veekee James Fashion Academy.

The institution offers hands-on training. Veekee James Fashion Academy fees vary depending on the training you wish to receive. Short courses are available.

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Other options

Other fashion schools in Lagos you can consider are listed below.

• Zapron Fashion School
• Martwayne Fashion School
• Zaris Fashion School
• Rhoda Michael Fashion School
• Ginani Fashion Academy
• Hadazzah Styles and Stitches
• Fashion & Art Academy
• OSC College of Fashion
• KG School of Fashion
• Valisimo Fashions

Tips on how to get into the fashion school of your dreams

Studying fashion is not for the faint of heart. You need to be willing to take risks and go against the current. We have prepared some tips that might help you get into the mindset of getting into a school of fashion.

• Work hard and express originality. Unless you want to be a run-of-the-mill seamstress at your local mall, you need to apply a lot of effort and think outside the box. You can always start with basic ideas before developing original concepts over time.
• Express your opinions in your art. Art, for the sake of art, is boring. In order to be someone in the fashion industry, your concepts must be something more than just pretty pictures. They need to tell a story and serve a purpose.
• Show your progress. When you apply to a school, your portfolio does not have to be immaculate. On the contrary, one should be able to see growth in your work. Therefore, do not be afraid of adding several versions of one design side by side for comparison.
• Push the boundaries. You need to think outside the box in order to get anywhere in the world of fashion. It is also a great idea to expand the boundaries of the said box. Challenge yourself to something new and unusual from time to time to keep your perspective fresh.
• Show your passion. Even if your designs are out of this world, they are nothing if they lack soul. Your passion for getting into the fashion world should be visible in all of your work. It should scream from the pages of your sketchbooks and portfolios.
• Be curious and smart. If you really want to study fashion, you should have a good theoretical base and (preferably) some experience in the field before you go into it. Moreover, you should be hungry for knowledge and try to learn as many new things as possible.
• Rethink the fashion for the future generations. While it is true that fashion often repeats itself, and it is important to know about the styles of years before, you should also consider the future of fashion. Create your designs with the next generation in mind, think of what you would like them to wear in the future.

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Is there a government fashion school in Lagos?

The Government of Nigeria has multiple TVET institutions and universities offering various courses, including fashion and design.

Is there a male fashion school in Lagos?

Most fashion schools in Lagos admit male and female students. They also offer training in fashion for female and male clients.

Which university can you study fashion in Nigeria?

You can pursue fashion at the University of Ibadan, University of Nigeria, Obafemi Awolowo University, University of Lagos, Covenant University, University of Calabar, Federal University of Technology, Akure, University of Ilorin, Ahmadu Bello University, or Nnamdi Azikiwe University.

What grades do you need to study fashion?

The entry criteria for different institutions vary. The requirements for universities may be higher than those for colleges.

What age do you go to fashion school?

Most people join fashion school after completing their secondary-level education. However, you can join as early as wish, especially if you have the right support.

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Now that you know how to get into a fashion school in Lagos, you can go out there and follow your dreams. We wish you the best in your endeavors and hope to see your fashion creations at events.

Legit.ng recently published a list of the best courses to study in Nigeria. In a developing country like Nigeria, the course you study at the university matters because a lot of university courses still lack value.

In Nigeria today, there are general perceptions about the value of the courses studied at the university. Some courses are seen as useless because career opportunities for them in Nigeria are very low, and they are not generally valued.

Source: Legit.ng