It took me one tweet to grab my devoted attention. I have been following Hogoè’s brand for almost a year and I was finally able to show my appreciation by purchasing one of her products and also interview her. I personally wish to know her in person one day, she seems a genius behind her brand and very well-rounded. As a Black woman myself, it is always a pleasure to see a fellow fashionista creating their nook in the fashion industry.

What caught my attention was a specific tweet that came out from Hogoè’s personal page. It went something like this: it might not be you, but my next client is in your timeline. I read it as an invitation to Like and Retweet the post. Probably somebody I follow was already familiar with her work, but for me, that was all new. I instantly fell in love with the small lavender leather backpack under the bee collection: such a cute piece, delicate and very practical. At the time I didn’t have enough money, so I decided that I was going to buy it as soon as I had the money for it. I also wanted to “know” more about the brand, do my research on it, and see what kind of business it was. That’s because I am not an impulse buyer. Almost every piece I own in my wardrobe has either a sentimental value, is from Italy, or is by a BIPOC business - although I’m into fashion, my style is minimal and I am extremely selective with what I choose to buy. The right time and the money finally came, so I proudly decided to purchase my red leather saddle bag from Hogoè.

Hogoè Kpessou is the person behind the homonymous brand. She’s a polyglot business owner and fashion beauty based in Jacksonville, Florida, with Togolese roots. She got us all with her sweet-looking designs!

What's the first thing a person should think of when Hogoè walks in the room or your name is mentioned in a room?

I want the first impression to be very welcoming but respected. The kind of feeling you’d get seeing Princess Diana. To be able to have an interest in her, adore what she stands for, but also know that she has a determination and ability to advance in her own identity like no other.

Have you ever had a hard time with customers or customer service?

I have had my share of stubborn customers. I would say I’ve been more blessed with understanding customers more than anything. I have dealt with customers mad at me about shipping when I really don’t control that. I have had customers given me ultimatums. “ Ship it together or I’ll leave a bad review.” In the end, since it is just me, every now and then I just give myself some time away. I can’t help but understand why others are annoyed at times about their others. Still, I’m grateful they aren’t the majority and that’s very helpful.

What has driven you towards fashion? What do you want to represent through fashion?
Essentially, I was not a purse girl myself. But in the end, I found the one thing that will always be needed, is fashion - clothing, style. It’s been a hallmark of society as is air. I wanted to establish myself well in competition with the likes of Gucci and so on. I believe I want to be an African brand and name in that same light to be able to find myself being able to use my name and talent in a way that can help me and my people.

One of the many tweets I stumbled on was a series of pictures of the bee collection. What's the meaning of the bee?

For me, the meaning of the bee is “ I attract sweetness in life”. I believe that it was just a matter of how luxurious a bee could look, but a hive is also an empire of females. They only attack to protect but still being about results of amazing things like honey. I wanted the same for myself.

What's your biggest dream with/for your brand?

For my brand, my dream is to be known. To be nationwide. To very much be as strong as brands like Gucci and so on. The ability to be strong in presentation but also worthwhile to my customers is the ultimate desire.

Let’s spread the word and let’s make Hogoè’s dream a reality. Check Hogoe’s store as well as support her on Instagram and Twitter!