By Shaked Yanko
Temitope Ogunseitan
TP4 Style, founder of DrippByTP4Style, is a Nigerian-born designer whose journey in fashion has been defined by resourcefulness, resilience, and a mission to make style accessible to everyone. Growing up in an environment with limited fashion influences, TP4 first tapped into his love for creativity through drawing and digital art. His journey started humbly, turning £50 worth of fabric from local markets into unique, sustainable fashion. Today, he continues to challenge fashion's exclusivity by incorporating preloved materials and fostering inclusivity in every piece.
TP4’s passion for design originated from art, with early work creating album covers and illustrations. This artistic drive later became the backbone of his clothing designs, focusing on upcycled, one-of-a-kind garments that tell a story. In 2010, he began sourcing preloved fabrics from local Nigerian markets, breathing new life into otherwise discarded materials. The process of reconstructing these unique fabrics has always been about creativity and breaking boundaries. "Why can’t I do it myself?" was the question that ultimately inspired him to found Drippcity in 2019, a hub for accessible fashion that became a beacon of style in Nigeria.
Temitope Ogunseitan
After establishing a following in Nigeria, TP4 faced a major setback in August 2022 when his store, Drippcity, was unexpectedly demolished by his landlord due to structural risks. During the demolition, he experienced the devastation of looters taking everything inside, erasing over ten years of hard work. Losing both his store and entire inventory, he moved to the UK, determined to rebuild from scratch. In the UK, he rebranded as DrippByTP4Style and tackled new challenges, including navigating an industry that initially overlooked his Nigerian experience. Unwavering in his mission, TP4 took side jobs and reinvested each paycheck into his business, rebuilding by collaborating with established UK designers and showcasing his work at events like Cardiff Fashion Week.
DrippByTP4Style defies typical fashion stereotypes by being both accessible and inclusive. TP4 is committed to creating pieces for people of all ages, backgrounds, and financial situations, allowing self-expression without constraints. His designs are known for their vibrant patterns and African-inspired colours that instantly evoke happiness. "The first thing I want people to do when they see my designs is smile," he explains. His clothing is rooted in individuality, empowering wearers to feel unique without stressing about trends or budgets.
Temitope Ogunseitan
One of TP4’s proudest moments came from his efforts to diversify the modelling industry. From working with local Welsh residents of all ages, including a 63-year-old woman who had always dreamed of modelling, to helping a military professional participate in a show without compromising his job, TP4’s approach to fashion is personal. "I will create something to fit their personality," he says. His dedication to inclusivity extends beyond the clothes, supporting individuality and breaking down barriers.
Though trends dominate the fashion industry, TP4 is adamant about establishing his own style. He believes in creating a distinct, lasting brand, even if that means growing slowly. By focusing on sustainability and individuality, TP4 has built a reputation for garments that are as unique as they are meaningful. In doing so, he has also stayed true to his vision: making fashion accessible to all while remaining unmistakably "TP."
Through his journey, TP4 has turned setbacks into opportunities, proving that with resilience and a clear mission, one can overcome any obstacle. DrippByTP4Style is more than just fashion; it's a movement toward inclusivity, sustainability, and self-expression, making TP4’s work stand out as refreshingly unique in the world of fashion.
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