Ethel Ogechukwu Eze is the founder and CEO of SassyByEtty. Eze’s journey into fashion began with a personal need to bring her bold designs to life. As an engineer turned designer, she couldn’t find anyone to interpret her sketches, so she took matters into her own hands. Today, SassyByEtty is a fashion house that creates unapologetic elegance for women who command presence.
In this interview with IFEOMA OKEKE-KORIEOCHA, Eze speaks on personal style and fashion preferences that shape the SassyByEtty brand and how she incorporates local Nigerian materials or textiles into its collections.
What specific aspects of engineering influenced Etty’s approach to fashion design?
My engineering background trained me to be solution-driven and detail-oriented. It helps me calculate fabric usage precisely, so I reduce waste and make smarter design decisions. I don’t just cut — I measure and plan for efficiency.
How did Etty’s personal style and fashion preferences shape the SassyByEtty brand?
I’ve always loved standing out in a classy, powerful way. SassyByEtty is my way of helping women be noticed without even trying. My style is bold, yet elegant — and that’s the spirit behind every piece.
What advice would Etty give to other women transitioning from a different field to fashion design?
Start where you are. You don’t need a perfect setup, you just need passion and consistency. Your past experience will be your edge — use it. The road isn’t easy, but it’s worth it.
Can you elaborate on specific Nigerian cultural elements or traditions that inspire SassyByEtty’s designs?
Northern embroidery, agbada silhouettes, rich damask fabrics, and the regal flair of Nigerian women deeply inspire me. I’m always looking to reimagine culture in a modern, wearable way.
How does the brand incorporate local Nigerian materials or textiles into its collections?
We use locally sourced fabrics like aso-oke, adire, damask, and raw silk. I also work closely with local artisans for embroidery and fabric detailing — this keeps the brand grounded in Nigerian craftsmanship.
In what ways does SassyByEtty contribute to the preservation and promotion of Nigerian fashion and art?
We keep traditional fashion alive by modernising it. We take elements like boubous or agbadas and reinvent them for the contemporary woman. We also shine a spotlight on Nigerian craftsmanship and textile arts.
What specific skills or areas of expertise does SassyByEtty focus on developing in its staff?
Beyond tailoring, I train staff in fabric efficiency, finishing techniques, and customer service. I want every team member to leave with skills they can use to build something of their own someday.
Can you walk us through SassyByEtty’s design and production process, highlighting specific sustainable practices?
Each piece starts with intentional design and fabric calculation to avoid waste. Unsold items are never discarded — they’re upscaled or upgraded into new pieces. It’s our way of repurposing without compromising style.
How does the brand source materials, and what steps does it take to minimize waste?
We source most materials locally. Offcuts from production are used creatively to make patch detailing or cutout designs in new pieces. Nothing is thrown away — we find a stylish use for everything.
What were some of the biggest challenges Etty faced in launching and growing the SassyByEtty brand?
Finding skilled workers who could interpret my designs properly was tough in the beginning. That’s what pushed me to learn fashion myself. Managing growth and staying consistent has been another challenge, but my passion keeps me going.
