The global fashion scene is increasingly recognizing the vibrant, diverse talents emerging from Africa and the Caribbean.
Designers from Egypt to Nigeria, and from Zanzibar to Trinidad and Tobago, are redefining fashion with their unique perspectives and creative visions.
Each designer brings a distinctive approach to fashion, reflecting the rich cultural heritage and innovative spirit of their respective regions.
Dina Shaker (Egypt)
Dina Shaker is a prominent Egyptian fashion designer known for her contemporary interpretations of traditional Egyptian textiles. Her designs often incorporate intricate embroidery and luxurious fabrics, blending historical influences with modern elegance. Shaker’s work emphasizes the craftsmanship and artistry of Egyptian fashion, creating garments that are both timeless and avant-garde. Her collections frequently explore themes of cultural heritage and identity, making her a key figure in the revival of Egyptian haute couture.
Doreen Mashika (Zanzibar)
Doreen Mashika is a designer from Zanzibar, celebrated for her use of vibrant prints and luxurious materials. The brand has gained a reputation for creating elegant, hand-crafted garments that often showcase intricate beadwork and embroidery. Mashika’s designs blend traditional Zanzibari aesthetics with contemporary fashion, creating pieces that reflect the rich cultural tapestry of the region. Her work has gained recognition for its quality craftsmanship and its ability to merge heritage with modernity.
Judy Sanderson (South Africa)
Judy Sanderson is a South African designer recognized for her innovative approach to menswear. Bold patterns, sleek tailoring, and keen attention characterize her designs to detail. Sanderson’s collections often feature a mix of traditional South African fabrics and contemporary silhouettes, reflecting a deep respect for cultural heritage while embracing global fashion trends. Her work is celebrated for its versatility and its ability to merge traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetics.
Katush (Kenya)
Katush is a Kenyan fashion label known for its sustainable practices and commitment to ethical fashion. The brand’s designs are distinguished by their use of locally sourced materials and traditional Kenyan textiles. Katush emphasizes craftsmanship and the importance of supporting local artisans, creating pieces that are both stylish and eco-friendly. The label’s approach reflects a growing movement towards sustainability in African fashion, combining contemporary design with a strong focus on environmental and social responsibility.
Kente Gentlemen (Ivory Coast)
Kente Gentlemen is a fashion label from Ivory Coast that specializes in modern interpretations of traditional Kente cloth. Known for its elegant menswear, the brand uses the vibrant, patterned fabric to create sophisticated suits and accessories. Kente Gentlemen’s designs honor the heritage of Kente weaving while offering a fresh, contemporary take on this iconic textile. The label is celebrated for its ability to blend cultural tradition with high-fashion sensibilities.
Late for Work (Morocco)
Late for Work is a Moroccan fashion brand that stands out for its edgy, streetwear-inspired designs. The label combines traditional Moroccan elements with contemporary urban fashion, creating garments that are both stylish and functional. Late for Work’s collections often feature bold prints, graphic designs, and innovative cuts, appealing to a younger, fashion-forward audience. The brand’s approach reflects a fusion of cultural heritage with modern street style.
Olooh (Ivory Coast)
Olooh is another influential designer from Ivory Coast, known for its vibrant and eclectic fashion collections. The brand is celebrated for its use of colorful, African-inspired prints and its innovative designs that push the boundaries of traditional fashion. Olooh’s garments often feature bold patterns and unique textures, making a strong statement both locally and internationally. The designer’s work highlights the diversity and creativity of African fashion.
Orange Culture
Orange Culture, founded by Adebayo Oke-Lawal, is a leading Nigerian fashion label recognized for its gender-fluid designs and contemporary approach to African fashion. The brand is known for its use of bold colors, innovative patterns, and a blend of traditional Nigerian textiles with modern design elements. Orange Culture’s collections challenge conventional gender norms and celebrate diversity, positioning the label as a significant player in the global fashion scene.
The Cloth (Trinidad and Tobago)
The Cloth is a fashion brand from Trinidad and Tobago that emphasizes the use of local textiles and artisanal craftsmanship. Known for its elegant, handcrafted garments, The Cloth blends Caribbean influences with contemporary fashion trends. The brand’s designs often feature intricate embroidery and vibrant prints, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Trinidad and Tobago. The Cloth is celebrated for its commitment to quality and its celebration of Caribbean artistry.
Thebe Magugu (South Africa)
Thebe Magugu is a South African designer who has gained international acclaim for his innovative and culturally rich fashion collections. Magugu’s designs often explore themes of identity, heritage, and social issues, combining traditional African textiles with modern silhouettes. His work has been recognized for its bold use of color, intricate detailing, and thought-provoking concepts. Thebe Magugu’s collections have been showcased on major fashion platforms, cementing his status as a leading figure in African fashion.
Vanhu Vamwe (Zimbabwe)
Vanhu Vamwe is a Zimbabwean fashion brand known for its commitment to sustainable and ethical fashion. The label emphasizes the use of locally sourced materials and traditional techniques, creating garments that are both stylish and environmentally conscious. Vanhu Vamwe’s designs often incorporate traditional Zimbabwean motifs and craftsmanship, reflecting the brand’s dedication to preserving cultural heritage while embracing modern fashion trends.
We Are NBO (Kenya)
We Are NBO is a Kenyan fashion label that celebrates the vibrant, multicultural influences of Nairobi. The brand is known for its eclectic designs, which blend traditional Kenyan fabrics with contemporary fashion elements. We Are NBO’s collections often feature bold prints, innovative silhouettes, and a mix of textures, reflecting the dynamic and diverse nature of Nairobi’s fashion scene. The label’s work is recognized for its creativity and its celebration of Kenyan culture.
Wuman (Nigeria)
Wuman is a Nigerian fashion brand that focuses on creating luxurious, high-quality garments with a strong emphasis on craftsmanship. The brand’s designs are characterized by their use of rich fabrics, intricate detailing, and elegant silhouettes. Wuman’s collections often feature traditional Nigerian textiles and modern design elements, creating a unique fusion of cultural heritage and contemporary style. The brand is celebrated for its commitment to excellence and its ability to produce timeless, sophisticated fashion.
Adele Dejak (Kenya)
Adele Dejak is a Kenyan-based designer known for her bold, contemporary jewelry and accessories inspired by African culture. Blending traditional craftsmanship with modern design, she uses locally sourced, sustainable materials like reclaimed brass, recycled glass, and cow bone. Dejak’s brand is rooted in empowering African artisans, especially women, by providing fair wages and skill development. Her designs have gained global recognition, showcased in major fashion events and collaborations, including partnerships with brands like Salvatore Ferragamo. Adele Dejak’s work celebrates African heritage, sustainability, and ethical fashion while carving a space for African design on the global stage.
Bloke (Nigeria)
Bloke is a Nigerian fashion label founded by designer Faith Oluwajimi in 2015. Known for its avant-garde, gender-fluid designs, the brand blends art and fashion to create bold, unconventional pieces. Oluwajimi emphasizes craftsmanship, using intricate knitwear, rich textures, and hand-dyed fabrics to challenge traditional norms. Bloke stands out in the Nigerian fashion scene for its focus on slow fashion and sustainability, working with local artisans to produce ethical, handmade collections. Gaining international recognition, including as an LVMH Prize finalist, Bloke is redefining African fashion with its innovative, artistic approach.
Boyedoe(Ghana)
Boyedoe is a Ghanaian fashion brand founded by Boye Doe, known for blending traditional Ghanaian craftsmanship with modern menswear design. The brand emphasizes sustainability, ethical production, and storytelling through fashion, using handwoven fabrics like Kente and natural dyes. Boyedoe’s collections feature minimalist, tailored pieces with a cultural twist, merging traditional techniques with contemporary aesthetics. The brand supports local artisans and promotes slow fashion, gaining international recognition through runway shows and collaborations. Boyedoe’s commitment to craftsmanship and cultural heritage makes it a standout in the global fashion industry.
Christie Brown (Ghana)
Christie Brown is a luxury fashion brand from Ghana, founded by Aisha Ayensu in 2008. Known for its innovative designs that blend traditional African aesthetics with modern fashion, the brand uses vibrant prints, intricate craftsmanship, and contemporary tailoring. Christie Brown focuses on empowering women through its bold designs and ethical practices, employing local artisans and promoting sustainability. The brand has gained global recognition, with its collections showcased internationally and worn by high-profile figures. Christie Brown continues to redefine African luxury fashion, merging cultural heritage with modern elegance.
David Tlale (South Africa)
David Tlale is a renowned South African fashion designer known for his bold, avant-garde designs that blend African influences with modern luxury. Born in Johannesburg, Tlale gained recognition after winning the Elle New Talent competition in 2002. His work features dramatic silhouettes, intricate details, and a commitment to storytelling through fashion. Tlale has showcased his collections internationally, including at New York Fashion Week, and has dressed high-profile clients. He emphasizes sustainability, ethical fashion, and the empowerment of young designers. Tlale is a key figure in elevating African fashion globally, celebrated for his creativity and cultural pride.
These designers—Dina Shaker, Doreen Mashika, Judy Sanderson, Katush, Kente Gentlemen, Late for Work, Olooh, Orange Culture, The Cloth, Thebe Magugu, Vanhu Vamwe, We Are NBO, and Wuman—represent the dynamic and diverse fashion scenes across Africa and the Caribbean. Each designer brings a unique perspective, blending traditional cultural elements with contemporary fashion trends. Their work highlights the rich heritage, creativity, and innovation emerging from these regions, contributing significantly to the global fashion industry and redefining the narrative of African and Caribbean fashion.
