FROM £2,000 TO A FASHION LEGACY

The story behind the journey of Ade Bakare Couture London

Every fashion house has a beginning. For Ade Bakare, that beginning was built on vision, learning and determination.

In a recent interview with NidaCity, Ade Bakare reflects on the early days of his fashion journey and how Ade Bakare Couture London began in 1991 with a £2,000 loan.

But starting the business was only the first step.

Knowing that creativity alone was not enough to build a successful fashion house, Ade sought guidance from his lecturer, who emphasised the importance of having the right people behind the brand — a good manufacturer, an excellent pattern cutter and the right technical support, particularly when working in couture.

That advice became an important part of his journey.

Rather than focusing solely on wedding dresses, which he recognised were seasonal, Ade created a ready-to-wear collection and began selling to shops. It was a practical decision that allowed the young label to develop commercially while continuing to build its identity.

What stands out from his story is that building a fashion house is not simply about designing beautiful clothes. It is about understanding the business, surrounding yourself with the right expertise and knowing how to turn an idea into something sustainable.

From a £2,000 beginning to decades of creativity and craftsmanship, the journey of Ade Bakare Couture continues to be one of vision, resilience and an enduring commitment to fashion.