Cool African Fashion Brands To Know
Cool African Fashion Brands To Know
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Cool African Fashion Brands To Know

African fashion is booming, so to give you a closer look at some of the continent’s most innovative, bold and culturally rich brands, we asked our fashion broadcaster and editor Nana Acheampong to run us through some of her favourites…
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Images: Hanifa; Desirée Iyama; Orange Culture

I often get asked where my love for colour comes from and it’s the easiest question to answer: Ghana. Africa, actually, as a whole is such a daily inspiration for colour, print and innovative designs. From bold prints to intricate handcrafted details, African fashion never fails to capture the vibrancy and spirit of the continent. If you’re looking to inject some new life into your wardrobe, take note, these labels are the perfect places to start… 

Nana's Favourite Brands

Rendoll

​Rendoll is a Nigerian womenswear brand founded in 2019 by Reni Abina, a self-taught designer. Expect flowing maxi dresses, striking co-ords and structured silhouettes that flatter every figure, all available in inclusive sizing and crafted with an ethical approach. The designs are perfect for a summer wedding, a sun-drenched getaway or just to elevate your everyday wardrobe.

Visit RENDOLL.COM

Kwame Adusei

Kwame Adusei was founded by Ghanaian designer Nana Kwame Adusei. Drawing inspiration from traditional West African draping techniques, his pieces often forgo side seams, resulting in garments that contour the body perfectly. Most recently he was honoured with the Sustainability Award at the Fashion Trust Awards. He also counts Beyoncé and Lori Harvey as fans. 

Visit KWAMEADUSEI.COM

Desirée Iyama

Bookmark Desirée Iyama for any upcoming summer events where you want to make a statement this season. The Nigerian womenswear brand, founded by its namesake designer, champions slow fashion through made-to-order pieces which are crafted in its Lagos studio – think easy, elegant shapes in limited-run fabrics that feel as special as they look. Whether it’s a puff-sleeved midi dress or a playful printed co-ord, everything feels timeless, flattering and wearable.

Visit DESIREEIYAMA.COM

Jewel Jamila

Jewel Jamila is a Nigeria-based brand offering a range of tailored dresses and flattering jumpsuits that combine modern designs with traditional African aesthetics. Founded by Jemila Yesuf, the focus here is on affordability and inclusivity – keep an eye out for the dresses.

Visit JEWELJEMILA.COM

Wanni Fuga

Wanni Fuga was established in 2014 by Nigerian designer Toluwani Wabara. Specialising in carefully constructed pieces, collections span an elegant mix of dresses, co-ords, headpieces and jewellery. Wabara's background in engineering means she takes an architectural approach to fashion, ensuring each piece seamlessly blends form with function.

Visit WANNIFUGA.COM

Orange Culture

Orange Culture is a fashion brand that celebrates individuality. Founded by designer Adebayo Oke-Lawal, it’s known for its bold, androgynous designs. Fusing Nigerian heritage with global streetwear influences, it delivers vibrant colours, unique silhouettes and intricate details. 

Visit ORANGECULTURE.COM.NG

Lisa Folawiyo Studio

Nigerian designer Lisa Folawiyo creates collections that showcase intricate beadwork, Swarovski crystals and sequins, putting together striking designs with serious attention to detail. Whether it’s a statement dress or something tailored, the pieces are guaranteed to make an impact. 

Visit LISAFOLAWIYO.COM

Knanfe

Knanfe combines minimalist elegance with modern edge. Founded in 2017 by Nanfe Jemimah Kefas-Oyeleke, the brand takes a ‘less is more’ approach, focusing on structured pieces that exude luxury and confidence. This season, expect an array of neutral tones with the odd pop of colour. 

Visit KNANFE.COM

Hanifa

Hanifa balances standout pieces with chic, day-to-day wearables. Founded by Congolese designer Anifa Mvuemba, it’s also known for its curve-hugging knit dresses and bold separates. Based in Baltimore, Hanifa is all about celebrating the female form. Be it a night out or a casual brunch, her pieces are the perfect mix of sophistication and comfort. 

Visit HANIFA.CO

M.O.T The Label

M.O.T The Label is a Lagos-based ready-to-wear label founded in 2019 by Mo Agusto. Its structured co-ords, relaxed tailoring and easy dresses are all designed for movement and I’m obsessed with its recent collaboration with fellow Lagos brand Dye Lab. The denim set is ideal for summer in the city. 

Visit MOTTHELABEL.COM

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