In a significant stride for Nigerian fashion, the luxury women’s fashion brand, DWL, founded by Nigerian designer Ivie Odemwingie-Osula, has secured a spot in the prestigious Scale7 Fashion Accelerator program, generously funded by the Qatar Development Bank (QDB).
DWL, which stands for “Defining Women’s Lifestyle,” is currently headquartered in Qatar, with operations spanning Lagos and Doha.
It has been chosen as one of ten prominent fashion and design brands based in Qatar for the program, which officially commenced on September 18th.
This exciting initiative encompasses tailored mentorship, comprehensive business development activities, and vital financial support.
Scale7 holds the distinction of being Qatar’s pioneering fashion and design business incubator, a visionary concept initiated by the Qatar Development Bank (QDB) in collaboration with M7, a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship in design, fashion, and technology within Qatar.
M7, led by Her Excellency Sheikha Al-Mayassa and established by Qatar Museums, aims to meet the burgeoning demands of Qatar’s rapidly expanding fashion and design sectors by nurturing and promoting promising innovative entrepreneurs.
These entrepreneurs possess immense market potential, and the goal is to transform their businesses into globally recognized fashion and design brands.
Ms. Ivie Odemwingie-Osula, expressing her elation, remarked, “We are thrilled to have DWL selected for the prestigious Scale7 fashion accelerator program after a rigorous selection process. This recognition not only validates our vision and hard work but also provides us with unparalleled opportunities for mentorship, networking, and capacity growth towards positioning DWL as a competitive global brand.”
When asked about the impact of Qatar Development Bank’s support on her business, she added, “Undoubtedly, the government of Qatar will enhance the status of the DWL brand, to increase our operations and growth, globally.
For us at DWL, the Business Accelerator Program will amplify our capabilities, allowing us to refine our strategies and scale faster for enhanced brand presence, increased capacity, streamlined operations, and a wider reach and audience. We are excited for the journey ahead and the positive impact it will have on the DWL brand and community.”
DWL represents a luxury female fashion brand that specializes in unique designs bridging the gap between modest fashion and contemporary Western trends. Their creations empower women to utilize fashion as a means to project confidence and an amplified version of themselves.
Founded in 2017 in the vibrant Surulere neighborhood of Lagos State, DWL has evolved into a renowned luxury brand, offering ready-to-wear and bespoke blazer sets for women crafted from globally sourced fabrics and accessories.
The brand’s journey began with the importation of ready-made dresses, and it has since become synonymous with elegance and style.
With the Qatar government’s support and the Scale7 Fashion Accelerator program, DWL is poised to further elevate its global profile and continue its mission of empowering women through fashion, all while making a significant impact in the world of luxury fashion.
