Ojekide

My journey into tailoring for the hospitality industry began in 2023 during a fitting session with our client, Mr. Paul Kavanaugh, the General Manager of The Wheatbaker Hotel. He asked if we were interested in redesigning the uniforms for the hotel's in-house staff. At first, we declined due to budget constraints. But during one of my visits, I noticed a staff member looking visibly uncomfortable in his uniform, wrong fabric choice and style. That moment sparked an idea—I could see exactly how we could make their uniforms more comfortable, easy to wear, and stylish.

We later had a consultation with Mr. Paul, and hearing how intentional he was about his staff, we decided to take on the project. After delivering the final work, seeing the joy and pride on the staff’s faces, and realizing how much a well-tailored uniform can boost confidence, we knew this was something we needed to take further.

That experience was what birthed Ojekide Garment Co., the arm of Ojekide dedicated to garment production for the hospitality sector. Our mission is simple—homegrown, locally sourced, and sustainable production—saving the hospitality industry from the high costs and stress of importing uniforms while delivering quality that matches global standards.

At Ojekide Garment Co., we don’t just make uniforms—we create identity, boost confidence, and help brands leave a lasting impression.

It starts with understanding the people who will wear them. A uniform shouldn’t just look good; it should feel good too. We focus on breathable, lightweight fabrics that allow ease of movement while keeping the wearer looking polished. The goal is always to create a perfect blend of style, comfort, and practicality—so staff feel both professional and at ease throughout their shifts.

Every brand has a story, and our job is to translate that into fabric and design. We start by understanding the brand’s values, the atmosphere they want to create, and the daily tasks of their staff. From there, we select fabrics that align with their aesthetics—whether it’s luxury, sustainability, or modern minimalism—while ensuring durability and comfort. The result? A uniform that doesn’t just represent the brand but elevates it.

Uniforms are the first thing guests notice when interacting with staff, and they immediately set the tone for their experience. A well-designed uniform communicates professionalism, attention to detail, and the brand’s values—whether it’s luxury, warmth, or efficiency.

But beyond looks, comfort plays a huge role. When staff feel good in what they wear, it reflects in their confidence, posture, and overall demeanor. This creates a ripple effect—guests pick up on that energy, making their experience more enjoyable and memorable.

Durability starts with fabric selection. We choose materials that can withstand frequent washing, movement, and different working conditions. Stitching is reinforced at high-stress areas, and we pay close attention to finishing techniques that extend the garment’s lifespan. We also educate our clients on proper maintenance to ensure their uniforms stay in top condition for as long as possible.

We believe feedback is key to growth. After uniforms have been in use for a while, we check in with both staff and management to understand their experience. If there are issues—whether it’s fit, comfort, or functionality—we take note and make adjustments in future designs. The goal is always to refine and improve, ensuring that the end users are truly satisfied.

There’s a strong shift towards sustainability and functionality. Many brands are moving away from synthetic fabrics to eco-friendly options. Another key trend is versatility—uniforms that can transition between different roles within the establishment without looking out of place. There’s also a growing appreciation for cultural and brand-specific design details, making uniforms feel less generic and more like an extension of the brand’s identity.

We take time to research and understand what makes a brand unique. Whether it’s a color, a fabric choice, or a subtle design detail, we make sure the uniform feels like a natural part of the brand. If the client wants cultural elements incorporated, we do so in a way that feels authentic and respectful, ensuring the final look is both distinctive and professional.

Luxury clients have very high expectations, and rightfully so. They want quality, precision, and exclusivity, which means no shortcuts. One challenge is ensuring that luxury doesn’t compromise practicality. A uniform must look refined, but it also has to function effortlessly in a work environment.

To overcome this, we focus on clear communication, deep research, and innovation. We take the time to understand the client’s needs, suggest the best fabrics, and refine our designs down to the smallest detail. The result? A product that meets their high standards without sacrificing comfort and usability.

For me, inspiration comes from everyday life—observing how people move, how fabrics respond to motion, and how design can make a difference in someone’s confidence. I also stay updated on fashion and hospitality trends, attend industry events, and challenge myself with new techniques. But most importantly, I listen—to clients, to staff, to the people wearing the uniforms. Their experiences shape how we evolve and improve.