Review : How Oretbespoke Is Driving Social & Environmental Impact

Emmanuel Daraloye

Oretbespoke has done more than just fashion. Under founder Oretuyi Adewumi, the brand has embedded social and environmental impact into its DNA: recycling waste materials into fashion items, training community members, and generating employment opportunities. These efforts speak to a broader mission—fashion that is sustainable and socially responsive.

By turning waste products into bespoke items, Oretbespoke addresses two major industry challenges: material waste and under-utilised local labour. In a country where textiles and production often import, or waste is under-managed, this is a meaningful pivot. Training of local personnel also contributes to skills development and strengthens the local fashion ecosystem.

Moreover, the local sourcing of materials, craft-based production and bespoke tailoring model mean that value is retained locally—rather than simply being a downstream import. The ripple effect: new jobs, new skills, new economic activity in local communities.

In a broader Nigerian and African context, a brand that links luxury and social purpose is particularly compelling.

It suggests that high-end fashion need not be disconnected from community impact. Oretbespoke’s model offers a practical demonstration of how a fashion brand can be an agent of change. Looking ahead, if the brand scales its training programmes and recycling initiatives, the cumulative social benefit could be significant.