As I mentioned in this post, this year I’ll only be spending my fashion dollars on Black designers. I especially want to highlight African designers, but many of them work in classic wax print like ankara and kitenge, which are great for events but don’t particularly go with the idea of a capsule wardrobe. For the past couple of months I’ve been seeking out African fashion designers to support who work in neutrals and solids, as well as clean tailoring that fits my style aesthethic. Here are some of the African designers I’ve been adding to my closet this year.
Andrea Iyamah
Country: Nigeria
Location: Canada
Though the brand entered the market with swimwear, their RTW collection features tops, pants, and dresses with sharp tailoring in beautiful solid colors. I’ve already in love with this top, and I have my eyes on this maxi dress and this jumpsuit.
Siri Studio
Country: Kenya
Location: Kenya
I’m very much into tailored pieces now, and Siri Studio’s classic high waisted pants are expertly made from high quality fabric. I already have them in yellow but think I need them in every single color.
AU Gold
Country: Nigeria
Location: United States
Asiyami Gold’s Fall 2019 collection evoked a feeling of wanderlust, much like the rest of her brand. With unique fabrics, rustic colors, and captivating photography, it’s no wonder many items from this launch quickly sold out. I have my eyes peeled ready to add to cart once her next collection is released.
Diarrablu
Country: Senegal
Location: Senegal & United States
Another brand that started with swimwear and is expanding nicely into clothing, Diarrablu’s story is absolutely inspiring. The founder uses math to create her own prints, but what I really love is her multi-functional designs like the multiway Umy jumpsuit that I have in white, but that also looks amazing in this colorway. The founder has even ventured into making wall art!
Imad Eduso
Country: Nigeria
Location: Nigeria
Ever since I saw both my aunties Chimamanda and Lupita wearing this brand, I knew I had to purchase a piece. I’ve since gotten this set pictured (worn here) and this one – love that they sell co-ord sets that can be mixed and matched!
Kai Collective
Country: Nigeria
Location: United Kingdom
One of my favorite things about Fisayo’s Kai Collective is that she tries on every piece on her Instagram page, so you can get a true understanding of each garment’s cut and fit. I have this top (worn here) and am currently trying to decide which color to buy this dress. Another plus – which can’t be said for most of these designers – her designs often come in plus sizes!
Tongoro Studio
Country: Senegal
Location: Senegal
This Senegalese brand doesn’t shy away from prints. Rather, it works with abstract and monotone prints instead of the geometric and colorful prints that African fabric traditionally uses. They’ve had a meteoric rise since Beyonce wore several of their pieces, which are great for vacation and resort-wear. Their Made in Africa tee is a fave of mine, and I also wore one of their resort dresses for our anniversary. They have a men’s line too!
FKSP
Country: Nigeria
Location: United States
Veteran fashion blogger Folake Kuye Huntoon turned her signature style and captivated audience into her own clothing line that features tailored dresses, pants, and jumpsuits in both bold and neutral colors, and sophisticated prints. FKSP is surprisingly affordable, especially for work wear, and the easy separates make for versatile pairings with your existing wardrobe. I picked up these pants from one of the newest drops (that quickly sold out) and they fit like a GLOVE.
Bonus: The Narativ
Country: Zimbabwe
Location: United States
Founded by Zimbabwe native and Netflix Next in Fashion contestant Farai Simoyi, the Narativ is a Brooklyn concept store that carries ethical fashion designers from around the world. Although not all the designers stocked are African, a number of them – including Farai’s own eponymous line – are. I currently have my eyes on this white boilersuit by Guyanese American designer Marrisa Wilson.
Magnificent styles but I need style my wife will like next week is her birthday
Loving your post. But I miss Wyne Kirabo a Ugandan fashion designer based in Spain. She is an upcoming designer but her work is amazing and her visuals are top.
Thank you for the recommendation!
Whoa- thanks so much Ijeoma. Fabulous pieces – will definitely be indulging and stepping up the wardrobe.
Loved this piece, so many african designers doing awesome jobs! Loved the made in Africa tee shirt as well.
Hello Ijeoma, you should check out @ayabacouture on IG. She has a ready to wear and bridal line and her pieces are very beautiful.
Thanks for the suggestion! I’m not seeing where to browse/shop her RTW pieces though
Thank you so much for this article. I enjoyed it.
You’re welcome!