Fashion Month 2024 Recap: Know the African Brands Leading The Way with their Unique Collections
Phew! Fashion week this past September and October has been a whirlwind! African brands had a phenomenal presence across major fashion weeks and trade events from New York to Milan to London and beyond! Productions took the form of presentations, runway shows and intimate, often invite-only showcases.
The increasing representation signals a positive trajectory to highlighting the myriad of talents from the African continent and further elevating designs from established and noteworthy emerging brands.
On the flipside, some designers also made the bold decision to sit out of participating in fashion weeks for reasons that resonate deeply with many emerging brands such as the cost of participating and producing fashion week worthy shows/presentations.
African designs are steeped in rich heritage, craftsmanship and generational storytelling which was well communicated through collections showcased throughout the various fashion week and trade platforms.
From sustainability to ethical supply chains read on to see the collections we admire but also have on the ADJOAA.COM platform! We could not be more proud of these Made In Africa brands!
NEW YORK FASHION WEEK
DIOTIMA
Renowned designer Rachel Scott, born in 1984 in Jamaica, has a unique approach to fashion that sets her apart from the rest.
With a background in French existentialism and post-structuralism, Scott's passion for fashion was ignited by the intricate connection between language, culture, and creativity. Throughout her impressive 16-year career in Milan and NYC, Scott has honed her skills at every level of the design process, from designer to executive to consultant. Her time at Costume National in Italy provided her with a solid foundation in craftsmanship, construction, and the use of luxurious materials. As a Jamaican designer, Scott's work is deeply rooted in the historical, political, and aesthetic aspects of her heritage.
At Diotima, Rachel Scott brings a wealth of technical and creative knowledge that is sure to impress. Her designs are a harmonious blend of intellect, beauty, and physicality, creating a truly unique and captivating experience for fashion enthusiasts.
KAHINDO draws its inspiration from the vibrant and diverse continent of Africa, infusing every creation with style, colour, and originality. The brand firmly believes that fashion has the power to create positive change, and is dedicated to crafting garments that celebrate individuality in the most vibrant way possible.
But they don't stop there - KAHINDO goes above and beyond by making a profound impact on the lives of African women through the creation of sustainable job opportunities. When you choose KAHINDO, you are not just choosing a piece of clothing - you are choosing fashion with a purpose. Their designs are where style and substance converge to create a brighter, more beautiful world. Find these pieces that we are obsessed with on ADJOAA, the Stellenbosh module dress , Bantrybay slit pants and Juba Midi Dress Choose KAHINDO and be a part of something truly special.
OSHBOR
Launched in 2020 by the talented Nigerian designer, Oshobor Odion Peter, this brand has quickly risen to prominence on the biggest fashion runways in the world. Oshobor's unique creations blend slow-fashion with traditional Nigerian elements, creating a truly captivating and original style.
Inspired by the deep bond between father and son, this brand is a celebration of love and family.Oshobor is also breaking boundaries and challenging stereotypes with collections like Na Man You Be and Omo No Mose. These collections boldly celebrate the strength, independence, confidence, and boldness of femininity, standing up against toxic masculinity in the fashion industry.
Oshobor is not just a brand - it's a movement, a statement, and a celebration of individuality and empowerment.
ONALAJA
Kanyinsola Onalaja, the brilliant mind behind the Onalaja brand, effortlessly combines modern silhouettes with elements inspired by African art and traditions. Hailing from Nigeria, her expertise in Fashion Design at both the Bachelor's and Master's levels was honed in the vibrant cities of London and Rome.
Kanyinsola's designs are a true reflection of her diverse background, as she skillfully translates traditional embellishment techniques into stunning three-dimensional works of art.
Onalaja pieces are not just clothing - they are an immersive, sensory experience that will leave you feeling euphoric. With sizes ranging from XXS to XXXXL, each garment embodies Kanyinsola's dedication to inclusivity and impeccable craftsmanship while creating a movement that is ushering in a new era of luxurious inclusivity.
KORLEKEI
KORLEKIE is an exciting UK-based fashion brand that is deeply connected to heritage craft and culture. Drawing inspiration from the Ga-Adangbe tribe in Ghana, where KORLEKIE means Queen of Eagles, this brand specialises in creating handcrafted garments and accessories.
Celebrating the essence of womanhood, KORLEKIE incorporates a unique blend of heritage craft techniques, such as Victorian hairpin lace. Founded by the talented CEO, Beatrice Korlekie Newman, KORLEKIE is truly a brand like no other.
LONDON FASHION WEEK
TOTE LONDON
Experience the exquisite luxury of Tote London's ethereal-inspired classics that are truly out of this world. Their handmade leather goods showcase the finest saffiano leather crafted from premium calfskin. These statement accessories are a must-have for any fashion-forward individual, guaranteed to turn heads wherever you go.
Each piece is artisan-designed and meticulously hand-finished in London and Italy, ensuring the highest quality and attention to detail. Tote London's designs are intentionally unique, blending elegance with a touch of modernity to create timeless sophistication that pushes boundaries and captivates the senses.
Welcome to the world of Tote London, where luxury meets artistry in every stitch.
PIILZ N POIZN
Established in 2018, Piillz n Poizn has quickly become a go-to destination for fashion-forward individuals seeking top-notch quality and cutting-edge designs. They are constantly updating our inventory to bring you the latest and greatest styles, ensuring that you stay ahead of the fashion curve.
At Piillz n Poizn, they view fashion as a powerful form of self-expression. Their mission is to empower you to embrace your unique style and showcase your individuality through our carefully curated selection of clothing items. Whether you're in search of a Bardot Corset Top for a touch of sophistication or a C Luxe Dress to make a bold statement, we have something for everyone.
Piillz n Poizn take great pride in our unwavering commitment to providing exceptional customer service. As a leading online fashion retailer, Piillz n Poizn recognize the importance of sustainability. That's why they are dedicated to sourcing ethically produced and environmentally friendly clothing items. When you choose Piillz n Poizn, you can feel good knowing that you are making a conscious decision to support a more sustainable fashion industry.
PARIS FASHION WEEK
Hailing from Nigeria, Abiola Olusola is a rising star in the fashion world. After earning her BFA in fashion design from Istituto Marangoni Paris in 2015, she quickly embraced a style that blends minimalist elegance with femininity, functionality, and a touch of sensuality.
In 2017, Abiola Olusola proudly launched her own brand, offering a unique blend of contemporary women's ready-to-wear and bespoke pieces. Her designs feature minimalist cuts, sleek architecture, and a fusion of African subcultures and craftsmanship.
Since its debut, Abiola Olusola's brand has garnered praise from critics and customers alike. Recognized as a "One to Watch" by Guardian Life in 2018, her premier collection was swiftly picked up by the prestigious luxury retailer Temple Muse in Lagos. Collaborating with fabric giant Vlisco and named a finalist for the Alara Emerge Fashion Fund, Abiola Olusola is making waves in the industry.
From showcasing her SS18 collection at Lagos Fashion Design Week to presenting her SS19 collection at GTB Fashion Weekend, Abiola Olusola is making her mark on the fashion scene. Nominated for Designer of the Year 2019 by Fashion's Finest Africa, she is a force to be reckoned with.
Passionate about supporting local African artisans and promoting sustainability, Abiola Olusola is dedicated to incorporating traditional fabrics and values into modern fashion.
With a focus on empowering craftsmen and women, she meticulously crafts each garment with an eye towards waste management and environmental responsibility. Through her work, she is pushing the boundaries of African fashion and telling a powerful narrative through her designs. Get ready to be inspired by Abiola Olusola's innovative and impactful approach to fashion!
Shop the one of a kind Lu Tank Top, the flattering Ibra Dress or the versatile hand printed button down coat all at ADJOAA!
TRANOI x CANEX
THE CLOTH
Embracing and celebrating Caribbean heritage, The Cloth has revolutionised the fashion industry under the visionary leadership of Creative Director Robert Young. Established in 1986, this iconic brand has become a symbol of Caribbean representation on a global scale, transcending mere fashion to embody wearable art that speaks to displaced communities worldwide.
With nearly four decades of legacy, Young's creations showcase the essence of the Caribbean diaspora through unique appliqué techniques that have become synonymous with the brand. From dressing steelpan bands to Carnival revellers, dignitaries, renowned performers, and movement leaders, The Cloth has left an indelible mark on the fashion world.
Drawing inspiration from the rich history of the Caribbean, The Cloth embraces anti-fit and anti-tailoring principles, crafting silhouettes that challenge conventional norms. Paying homage to pivotal moments such as the Cuban and Haitian Revolutions, the sartorial techniques used by The Cloth incorporate elements like fine tucks, cargo pockets, epaulettes, and Vèvès symbolic drawings from Haitian Vodou rituals.
Under the bold leadership of Creative Director Robert Young and CEO Sophie Bufton, The Cloth is on a mission to create a 100% Made-in-the-Caribbean value chain for West Indian Sea Island Cotton (WISIC). Partnering with Exclusive Cottons of The Caribbean, The Cloth now offers a collection made from this rare cotton, grown exclusively in the Caribbean archipelago.
With only 100 bales produced annually, it is the world's rarest cotton variety, grown in Barbados, manufactured in Switzerland, and designed and made in Trinidad and Tobago.
Craftsmanship and engagement are at the heart of The Cloth's operations, with each piece meticulously crafted at their atelier in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, using bio-based fabrics.
Vanhu Vamwe (VV), which means "One People" in Shona, is a prestigious brand that has established an ethical foundation for creating luxurious, handcrafted heirlooms that embody a unique brand aesthetic blending traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation.
VV is dedicated to exploring imaginative and innovative storytelling that celebrates cultural, historical, and social themes through captivating conceptual handbags. By collaborating with artisans in Zimbabwe and Ecuador, VV is able to bridge cultures through design.
This brand has evolved into a philanthropic enterprise with a strong social mission to empower women in marginalised communities economically. Join us in supporting this incredible initiative that not only produces stunning handbags but also makes a positive impact on the lives of women around the world. Let's celebrate creativity, craftsmanship, and empowerment with Vanhu Vamwe! We are proud to let you know you can shop this brand at ADJOAA! Here are a few of our favourite pieces that will elevate your look this coming season! The Runago Bag, Imanthi shopper or The Barrel Cross-Body Bag.
Boyedoe is a luxurious brand that seamlessly blends African heritage with ethical elegance. Their brand is founded on the principles of deconstruction and reconstruction, allowing them to create clothing that embodies the essence of Sun-sum (spirit), Silhouettes, Sustainability, and Sophistication.
Each piece is designed with the intention of being timeless, ensuring that you can enjoy them for years to come. Shop the Busumuru Blazer or the Busumuru Cropped Jacket all on ADJOAA and join us on this exciting journey as we redefine luxury fashion with a touch of African flair!
CHRISTIE BROWN
Christie Brown (CB) is a luxurious Ghanaian fashion brand that was established in 2008 by the talented Creative Director, Aisha Ayensu. The brand is named after Aisha's grandmother, a skilled Ghanaian seamstress who never had her own label. Christie Brown draws inspiration from the rich history of artisans and visionaries who have paved the way before them.
From the vibrant market stalls where women sell beautifully printed and intricately woven fabrics, to the skilled seamstresses who expertly cut patterns by hand, Christie Brown celebrates the ingenuity and creativity of African craftsmanship.
At the heart of Christie Brown's mission is a dedication to clothing the African woman in prints and patterns that reflect her heritage and keep her connected to her roots. The brand continues to honour the legacy of these artisans by showcasing excellence in African artisanship and craftsmanship on a global stage.
Christie Brown remains committed to understanding the African woman, her culture, and her journey in today's world. Each piece tells a unique story, embodying the beauty and spirit of the women who wear them with grace and confidence.
THEBE MAGUGU
“THEBE MAGUGU” is a luxury South African fashion brand. The fashion house offers ready-to-wear collections while exploring parallel concepts through multidisciplinary capsule projects. Founded on pillars of heritage, novelty and uncompromising quality, the brand is establishing an identity marked by self-evolving timelessness.
Thebe Magugu constantly seeks new ways of presenting women & men with clothing that embraces and enhances their everyday experience. Sleek, forward-looking design intersects with motifs & details that draw from our continent’s storied past, complex present and exciting imagined futures, providing smart, multifaceted clothes that mirror the inspiring qualities of the people they are made for.
Step into the enchanting realm of BLOKE, a genderless artisanal label brought to life by the visionary designer Faith Oluwajimi. Established in 2015, BLOKE introduces a unique concept of luxury, blending a whimsical and artistic design style with a touch of spiritual awareness. Each garment and object is meticulously crafted to serve both a functional purpose and to be cherished as a collectible item.
At BLOKE, they are dedicated to exploring the endless possibilities of ethically made clothing, with a keen focus on textile production and craftsmanship. Sustainability and the preservation of traditional local artisanal techniques lie at the core of their brand philosophy. We work closely with a tight-knit community of knitters, diverse textile artists, local artisans, and design groups in Nigeria to convey our distinctive design language.
Their latest collection delves into the theme of family and its influence on individuals in modern society. Drawing inspiration from the 70s photographs of Sedjou Keita and the recent paintings of Joy Labinjo, BLOKE examines family dynamics through an African perspective. The garments showcase prints of family tree diagrams and anagrams, symbolising the intricate connections within a family and honouring ancestral traditions in African culture.
The colour palette of their collection embraces the full spectrum of hues, reflecting the diversity and complexities found within a family unit, despite the shared bond they hold. Through BLOKES artisanal approach, they utilise a variety of fabrics with different textures such as cotton, linen, lace, and satin, as well as a mix of yarns including rayon, metallic, cotton, and polyester for our knitted pieces.
As an artisanal label, they employ techniques like knitting, hand-dyeing, applique, hand stitching, silkscreening, and patchwork to highlight the differences and commonalities that unite a family.
Embark on a journey through the captivating world of BLOKE on ADJOAA and embrace the fusion of quirky artistry and sustainable luxury.
SUKEINA
Sukeina, which means 'bright light,' creates clothing that captures the full range of human emotions, experiences, challenges, and triumphs. They are dedicated to innovation in their design, craftsmanship, and sustainability practices, prioritising reflection and quality over haste and mass production.
Clothing is more than just fabric for Sukeina; it is a powerful form of self-expression that transcends age, race, gender, and size. Each piece is carefully crafted to embody a unique silhouette, rhythm, and sentiment, offering endless possibilities for those who wear them. Sukeina is not bound by location but instead embraces a global perspective with curiosity and an open heart. Drawing inspiration from African cosmologies, European aesthetics, and the spirit of reinvention in America, Sukeina creates timeless pieces that reflect a rich cultural tapestry.
Their collections are a blend of complexity and nuance, celebrating individualism through conceptual, intellectual, and relational elements. While trends may come and go, Sukeina remains committed to creating clothing that resonates on both an aesthetic and metaphysical level, empowering individuals to navigate their own paths with confidence and style.
Established in 2011 by the fabulous Queen Ronke Ademiluyi-Ogunwusi, Africa Fashion Week London (AFWL) stands as Europe's premier fashion extravaganza dedicated to celebrating and fostering African and African-inspired design talent.
Through a dynamic combination of runway shows, exhibitions, and business development initiatives, AFWL has been a trailblazer in showcasing the creativity and innovation of Africa's up-and-coming designers, while also shining a spotlight on the continent's thriving fashion industry on a global scale. Over the past decade, AFWL has curated 10 sensational catwalk events and lent its expertise to numerous other fashion showcases, including collaborations with prestigious events like The Mayor of London's Black History Month celebrations.
Having provided a platform for over 800 emerging designers and exhibitors from Africa, Europe, and America, AFWL has captivated nearly 70,000 visitors, including industry insiders, buyers, retailers, and media representatives, solidifying its status as a must-attend event on the fashion calendar.
Join us in celebrating the vibrant world of African fashion, as we continue to champion creativity, innovation, and social change within the industry. Africa Fashion Week London - where style meets substance!
Here are the brands that we're excited for you to discover!
ANDREW TABITHA
Introducing Andrew Tabitha, a cutting-edge fashion brand for both men and women, proudly crafted in the vibrant city of Lagos, Nigeria under the visionary leadership of Oluwabusola Shokunbi.
Oluwabusola is passionate about showcasing the excellence and affordability of Nigerian-made fashion, and she is revolutionising the industry on a global scale through innovative technology.
Their brand is renowned for its fearless and imaginative use of colour and print, empowering our customers to curate a wardrobe filled with one-of-a-kind pieces that embody a lifestyle of comfort, joy, and mindfulness.
At Andrew Tabitha, the brand is dedicated to creating garments that exude the highest quality in fabric, craftsmanship, and attention to detail.
ADERIYIKE
ADERIYIKE is revolutionising the luxury sunglasses market by providing top-notch sunglasses at an affordable price, without compromising on style or UV protection.
Unlike other luxury brands that focus solely on looks and branding, ADERIYIKE understands the importance of functionality and affordability. They are also here to shakinge things up by offering trendy sunglasses with polarised lenses at a fraction of the cost, making premium eyewear accessible to everyone.
At Aderiyike eyewear is not just about fashion - they are about sustainability. The brand aims to transform the fashion industry by putting an end to fast fashion and promoting eco-friendly practices. ADERIYIKE wants to create a world where their sunglasses are not just a fashion statement, but a symbol of longevity and enduring style.
ÀDÌRE OODUA TEXTILE HUB
The Adire Oodua Hub is an incredible resource and educational facility that is dedicated to preserving the traditional techniques of Adire textile manufacturing. Through engaging and creative educational programs for both adults and children, the Hub aims to raise awareness and promote the sustainability of Adire production.
At the heart of the Adire teaching model is participatory learning, which allows for workshops, courses, events, and special programs that foster creativity, innovation, and leadership. Professionals and novices alike come together to make a positive impact on society and the environment through their engagement with Adire.
But that's not all - the Adire Oodua Hub is just the beginning! It is the first phase of a larger project that will see the creation of an Arts, Culture, and Innovation Centre. This centre will not only showcase the indigenous arts and crafts of Nigeria but also serve as a hub for design innovation and development. It will be a place where tradition and sustainability guide teaching and learning, bringing together the global creative arts community in an exciting and inspiring way.
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