How Fisayo Longe’s Vision Turned Kai Collective into a £6 Million Powerhouse
Nigerian entrepreneur and designer Fisayo Longe has created an unrivaled brand in the fashion industry with her London-based label Kai Collective. Since its founding in 2016, Kai Collective has grown from a small, self-funded venture. A globally recognized fashion powerhouse with a turnover of over £6 million, Kai Collective's story is as much about the evolution of the brand as it is about the evolution of the brand. and about the founder's extraordinary vision, courage, and creativity.
By Asteroid Media
Born and grew in Nigeria. Longe moved to London at the age of 15, even in his teenagers, his entrepreneur spirit was obvious. During the school, she began to try secondhand clothes from online friends. Experience that grows her business seeds. Later, she was trained in accounting and short work in the area, but her fascination in fashion and her storytelling could not be denied.
Before entering the fashion design, Longe beat the follower as a tour, travel, recording her adventure and style. Her journey made her experience a variety of cultures and designed aesthetics as an inspiration for her to explore her creative self. “Traveling teaches me the value of different perspectives.” She shared in Interview This exhibition laids the foundation for Kai Collective. The brand designed for women who accept their courage and expression.
In 2016, with a loan of 8,000 pounds from her mother, Longe officially launched the KAI Collective named “KAI”, a symbol of international commitment and power. Which is a theme that is deeply linked to the mission to enhance women through innovative and accessible fashion.
In the beginning, Longe’s design was very inspired by his personal style. She bought clothes while traveling and creating a sobbing clothes for herself. Which I call attention on social media When the demand increases She has changed from the creation of the order design to the production of ready -made clothing collections. “I want to create something that is more than time and identify myself,” Longe explained.
Kai Collective’s major breakthrough came in 2020 with the launch of the iconic Gaia Dress, a semi-sheer, marbled-print dress that took social media by storm. Celebrities like Saweetie and Adwoa Aboah were seen wearing the design, catapulting Kai Collective into the global spotlight. Longe recalls this pivotal moment: “It felt surreal to see something I created resonate with so many people. That was the moment I knew Kai had become more than just a brand—it was a movement.”
The Gaia Dress’s success was fueled by its blend of sophistication and inclusivity. Designed to fit a diverse range of body types, the dress reflected Longe’s commitment to empowering women of all sizes and backgrounds. This inclusive ethos remains central to Kai Collective, with designs available in sizes ranging from XS to 5XL.
While the Gaia Dress put Kai Collective on the map, Longe continued to innovate. In 2024, the brand introduced the Adesuwa Dress, a white sundress that became an instant bestseller. Initially produced in limited quantities, the dress’s overwhelming popularity prompted the brand to expand its production. “It was a dress for every woman and every situation,” Longe said.
Kai Collective’s growth has been remarkable. With an annual revenue surpassing £2 million, the brand now ships to customers worldwide. Its designs are celebrated for their bold prints, luxurious fabrics, and meticulous attention to detail, all at an accessible price point.
One of the hallmarks of Longe’s success is her authenticity. She remains transparent about the challenges of entrepreneurship, from securing funding to managing supply chain issues. In her words, “Building a business isn’t linear. There are highs and lows, but resilience is what keeps you going.” A key aspect of Longe’s philosophy is her commitment to inclusivity. “Fashion should be for everyone, not just a select few,” she said. This belief is reflected in her designs, which cater to diverse sizes, shapes, and cultural backgrounds.
Looking ahead, Longe envisions expanding Kai Collective into a lifestyle brand that goes beyond fashion. She also plans to explore sustainable practices, incorporating eco-friendly materials and processes into future collections. “Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a responsibility,” she remarked.
Fisayo Longe’s story is a beacon of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs. Her journey demonstrates the power of passion, perseverance, and authenticity. As she continues to break barriers and redefine the fashion landscape, Longe remains committed to her mission: empowering women through fashion that celebrates individuality and confidence.
As she once said, “The world doesn’t need another brand. It needs a brand with purpose—and that’s what Kai Collective is all about.”