A chat with Gabriel John, a budding fashionpreneur. From thrifting to owning a fashion lebel3 min read

From thrifting in campus, Gabriel is continuously transforming passion for fashion into a reputable venture; Le’ Gabrielle Collection (LGC). youth.ke chats him up on the sewing strides thus far.
 

Tell us about your hustle, where it is based, and did you study for this.

LGC is a fashion house based in Nairobi dealing in bespoke men’s and women’s outfits and accessories, including shoes, ties, belts, and more. We also offer branding services to expand our market base. My academic background includes a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from Kenyatta University.

I have also completed a certificate in Fashion Design and Dressmaking at Vera Beauty and Fashion College. I am awaiting graduation for my Diploma in Fashion Design and Tailoring at Delight Fashion College.

How do you define great fashion or style?

Great fashion or style is a combination of creativity, individuality, and confidence. It is about expressing your personality through your outfits and accessories, creating a unique and captivating look that resonates with who you are.

What inspired you to this venture, and how has the journey been so far, any challenges?

Tracing back, I realize I just had the passion within, only that it had not been conspicuous. The journey has been both challenging and rewarding. I have encountered numerous challenges, such as a need for more capital to run the business, intense competition staying ahead of rapidly changing fashion trends.

Staying consistent quality and uniqueness in our designs at relatively affordable prices. While managing the business side of the fashion company, and navigating the complexities of the fashion industry demands both creativity and business acumen.

However, the sense of fulfillment in seeing my work come to life and the recognition I have received keeps me motivated.

Could you share some of your best achievements so far?

In 2022, Le~Gabrielle Collections was nominated in the “Startup of the Year” category by Total Energies Africa Awards. In 2023, the company was nominated as the most promising startup of the year at the SOYA AWARDS, and I recently won the FOYA GLOBAL AWARDS (An African Award that included eight countries) as the “Fashionpreneur of the Year.”

Additionally, I have also had the opportunity to attend high-level trade and investment seminars and expos, such as the INDO EAST AFRICA EXPO, which allowed me to network with high-profile dignitaries especially in my industry.

What is your advice to anyone willing to pursue this line of hustle?

I advise anyone willing to pursue a hustle in this field to be passionate, persistent, and flexible. Put God first in whatever they do. Stay true to your unique style, keep learning and improving your craft, and do not fear taking risks. T

he fashion industry is competitive, but you can stand out and make a household brand with dedication and innovation.

Who do you look up to in this field, and perhaps why?

I look up to many fashion designers who have significantly impacted the industry.

L locally, I am inspired by two Mercy Maluli, CEO of Devine Collections. She inspires me because her entrepreneurial journey is pretty similar.

Just like her, I also began Le~Gabrielle Collections as a Mitumba hawker while on campus.

I hope LGC will also grow big and become a household name.

Mark of Lugo Collections is also my inspiration. I want to thank him because he has contributed to where I have reached today.

I have met him and we have shared I lot with him one on one.

 Across the borders, I am inspired by several Designers such as, Alessandro Michele of Gucci, Bernard Arnault of Louis Vuitton. Their creativity, innovation, and ability to set trends have been my constant source of inspiration.