The African fashion scene in 2024 has been nothing short of remarkable. In a year where conversations on sustainability, culture, and innovation have been at the forefront, it’s been inspiring to see these African brands actively taking action and earning global recognition for their efforts. From runways in Lagos to collaborations with international brands, African designers have consistently shown the world that they are a force to be reckoned with. This year, the spotlight has been on collections that celebrate heritage, challenge norms, and bridge the gap between African and Western aesthetics. In this article, we’re highlighting 24 African fashion brands that we loved in 2024.
Orange Culture (Nigeria)
Founded by Adebayo Oke-Lawal, Orange Culture is not just a brand but a movement. Since its inception in 2010, the brand has been at the forefront of challenging traditional gender norms through fashion. Orange Culture’s 2024 Spring/Summer collection, The Memory and Ongoing of Home delves into themes of urban migration and nostalgia. With handmade flower appliqués, hand-beaded pieces, and prints inspired by childhood memories, Oke-Lawal continues to use fashion to tell deeply personal and societal stories. The brand’s ability to fuse Nigerian culture with contemporary silhouettes, all while blurring gender lines, has made it a standout on global platforms like New York Fashion Week and at museums such as the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.
Labrum London (Sierra Leone)
Labrum London, founded by Foday Dumbuya, is a menswear brand that tells the untold stories of West Africa. With a design philosophy that fuses British tailoring with West African influences, Labrum London continues to push boundaries. 2024 was a groundbreaking year for the brand, with its collaboration with Arsenal and Adidas to host a first-of-its-kind runway show at Emirates Stadium. This year’s collection continues to bridge cultures while staying true to its utilitarian yet idiosyncratic style. Labrum London’s focus on inclusivity and storytelling through fashion makes it a standout in the global fashion landscape.
Chez Nous (French-Tunisian)
Chez Nous, founded by Camélia Barbachi, is a minimalist, sustainable fashion label reflecting her Franco-Tunisian heritage. After working with Onitsuka Tiger, Barbachi launched Chez Nous in 2021, focusing on transparency and avoiding greenwashing. Her designs are versatile, blending casual elegance with both traditional and modern elements. Committed to conscious consumerism, Barbachi’s collections prioritise sustainability and comfort, with the aim to create fashion that feels like a second skin while respecting both people and the planet.
Imane Ayissi (Cameroon)
Imane Ayissi, a Cameroonian-born designer, bridges African traditions with Parisian haute couture, establishing himself as a trailblazer in fashion. Raised in a family of artists, he started as a dancer before transitioning to fashion, modelling for luxury brands like Dior and Valentino. His designs feature African materials like hand-dyed Obom bark cloth and Faso Dan Fani cotton, blending cultural influences from Africa, the West, and Asia. His Fall/Winter 2024 Couture collection showcased intricate craftsmanship, including raffia fringes and floral prints. Ayissi’s work, celebrated for its cultural diplomacy, has earned global recognition, recently exhibited at the SCAD FASH Museum in Atlanta.
Ugo Monye (Nigeria)
Ugo Monye is a luxury fashion brand founded by Ugochukwu Monye, where African heritage combines nicely with contemporary high fashion. Known for exquisite craftsmanship, Monye’s designs celebrate African culture and unity. His 2024 collection, “Ife Aso Anyi”, meaning “What We Like,” fuses tradition with modernity, featuring pieces like Unity, which draws on Nigeria’s diverse ethnic groups. The collection was showcased at Lagos Fashion Week 2024, with a surprise runway appearance by superstar Davido. Monye’s designs, referred to as Alabere Idan (“The Masquerade”), symbolize African pride, unity, and authenticity, making his brand a leading force in global fashion and a champion of African creativity.
Kente Gentleman (Côte d’Ivoire)
Founded in 2017 by Aristide Loua in Abidjan, Kente Gentleman is a clothing brand that champions ethical production and sustainability. The brand collaborates with local artisans to design contemporary garments using traditional handwoven textiles, particularly kente. Kente Gentleman’s approach is rooted in the belief that African fashion should be diverse and evolving, reflecting various cultures and craftsmanship. Their SS25 collection, “Rêves d’Été,” departs from traditional kente, featuring tropical colours and luxurious tailoring, blending beach-inspired aesthetics with contemporary African fashion.
Nao Serati (South Africa)
Launched in 2014 by Neo Serati Mofammere in Johannesburg, Nao Serati is an athleisure brand that challenges conventional norms around gender, sexuality, and African heritage. The brand merges art, fashion, and South African youth culture in bold, conceptual ways. Known for fluid designs that make high fashion accessible, Nao Serati has been featured in Marie Claire and collaborated with global brands like Reebok. In 2024, they showcased their innovation at the BMW Art Generation event and worked with Volvo Car South Africa to integrate AI technology and sustainable design into fashion
Ajabeng (Ghana)
Ajabeng, launched in 2020 by Ghanaian designer Travis Obeng-Casper, mixes traditional Ghanaian textiles with modern design sensibilities, creating a unique aesthetic that celebrates both masculinity and femininity. The brand is committed to sustainability, using biodegradable materials and ensuring fair employment bypractices while offering opportunities for young African creatives. Ajabeng made a powerful debut at Arise Fashion Week in 2020 and quickly gained recognition as one of the top African brands, earning a spot in the “30 under 30” showcase. With collaborations featuring influential African creatives like Daniel Obasi and Stephen Tayo, Ajabeng’s designs have been worn by stars like Amaarae and Mayra Andrade. In 2024, the “Heritage in Motion” collection, inspired by Ghana’s rich cultural legacy, showcased locally sourced cotton garments and Afro-minimalism, symbolising the brand’s forward-thinking approach to tradition and modernity.
Tongoro Studio (Senegal)
Tongoro, founded in 2016 by Sarah Diouf in Dakar, Senegal, has become a symbol of African luxury and craftsmanship, gaining international acclaim after Beyoncé wore the brand in 2018. With a focus on showcasing African culture, Diouf’s designs celebrate the continent’s rich heritage while modernising traditional African textiles. By working with local artisans and sourcing materials on the continent, Tongoro is committed to promoting sustainable manufacturing and fostering economic development in West Africa. The brand’s bold, statement-making pieces, which include oversized silhouettes and graphic prints inspired by African photography, have been worn by celebrities like Naomi Campbell and Alicia Keys. Diouf’s vision of embodying African pride through high-value creations has positioned Tongoro as one of the leading African fashion brands on the global stage.
Meji Meji (Nigeria)
Founded by Tolu Oye in 2020, Meji Meji celebrates Nigerian heritage with designs that empower women and tell stories of resilience and beauty. Inspired by African-American and West African culture, Oye’s collections, like the Na Me Cause Am t-shirt, are community-driven and emphasise personal expression. Known for intentional creative direction and cultural references, Meji Meji continues to connect deeply with its audience, such as with the 2024 Sisi Ologe top, which highlights African beauty standards. The brand’s focus on building community through fashion makes it a standout in Nigerian design.
Iamisigo (Nigeria)
Founded by Bubu Ogisi in 2013, Iamisigo redefines fashion with its decolonised approach, blending African heritage and unconventional materials like raffia and bronze. Ogisi’s intricate, artful designs challenge norms and emphasise sustainability and storytelling. Iamisigo’s pieces, which explore social issues and ecological consciousness, have earned global recognition, including Ogisi’s 2024 nomination for the Zalando Visionary Award. The brand’s avant-garde approach and commitment to artisanal techniques make Iamisigo a powerful voice in contemporary fashion.
Hamaji Studio (Kenya)
Founded by Louise Somerlatte in 2017, Hamaji Studio combines African textile traditions with sustainable practices. The brand, named after the Swahili word for ‘nomad,’ emphasises collaboration with artisans across Africa and India, creating pieces from natural fibres, botanical dyes, and upcycled textiles. Hamaji’s handwoven peace silk, sourced from India, and partnerships with Kenyan handloom weavers reflect its commitment to ethical production. In 2024, Hamaji showcased its Fall collection, including the Kullu coats, at Berlin Fashion Week, continuing to celebrate African craftsmanship and sustainability.
Romzy (Gabon)
Romzy, founded by Romeo Moukagni in 2015, celebrates African culture with a mix of traditional and modern designs. Known for using quality materials and working with local artisans, Romzy’s pieces reflect the richness of African heritage. In 2024, the brand launched the “Skin Print” collection, inspired by Roméo’s encounter with Hibrahima Dia and celebrating diverse skin tones and textures. The collection, exhibited at Parc Hann and ONOMO Hotel, champions inclusivity and social change. Romzy also participated in Dakar Fashion Week 2024, further establishing its impact in the fashion world.
Dumebi (Nigeria)
Founded in 2014 by Dumebi Obuh, this minimalist and androgynous fashion brand has consistently delivered unique, multifaceted designs. 2024 saw the release of the BEAU collection, which seamlessly blends classic charm with a contemporary edge. Dumebi’s focus on creating multi-functional, bespoke pieces with eccentric fabrics has made the brand a favourite for those seeking an understated yet distinctive style. BEAU perfectly reflects Dumebi’s ethos of elegance and craftsmanship, appealing to a global audience looking for simplicity and sophistication.
OMÔL (Cameroon)
Cameroon-based fashion brand founded in 2018 by Nathalie Chebou Moth, celebrates bold, modern African femininity. Focused on eco-consciousness and community upliftment, OMÔL uses upcycled materials and employs local artisans. Their collections infuses traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design, featuring bold prints, hand embellishments, and inclusive sizing. OMÔL was featured in the 2024 NYFW presentation by the Black in Fashion Council and launched the Totem 1.1 Sandals, made from deadstock materials, highlighting their commitment to sustainability.
L’Artisane (Senegal)
Created by Senegalese designer Khadija Aisha Ba, this brand merges African tradition with modern innovation. Known for its bold motifs and unique cuts, L’Artisane’s Sidy collection revisits the boubou with a feminine twist. The brand emphasises craftsmanship and glamorous representations of African fashion. L’Artisane challenges stereotypes and celebrates Africa’s rich cultural heritage. Khadija Aisha’s journey from law to fashion has also made her a leading voice in reimagining African fashion globally.
Nairobi Apparel District (NAD) (Kenya)
Led by designer Junior Orina, NAD is a Kenyan streetwear brand known for being “The Heart of Art and Upcycling.” NAD champions sustainability by using upcycled and recycled fabrics, while promoting exclusive Kenyan designs. Orina’s vision focuses on eco-conscious fashion and reducing fast fashion’s environmental impact. In 2024, NAD continued to lead the way in sustainable fashion, showcasing collections that highlight traditional craftsmanship and advocating for awareness around the power of upcycling.
Y’WANDELAG (Nigeria)
Y’WANDE LAG is a contemporary African fashion brand blending traditional craftsmanship with modern design to create timeless, wearable art. The 2024 “No Bounds” collection tells the story of a woman and her lover, inspired by summer warmth and connection. Known for its intricate handmade techniques, Y’WANDELAG presented its SS25 collection at Lagos Fashion Week 2024, solidifying its reputation for combining African heritage with contemporary fashion innovation.
Victor Hart (Ghana)
Victor Hart is a Ghanaian fashion brand that blends traditional Ghanaian craftsmanship with modern, minimalist design. Founded by Victor Hart, the brand collaborates with artisans in Ghana and Italy, prioritising sustainability and heritage preservation. In 2024, Victor Hart debuted the “Bureaucracy” collection, combining military-inspired tailoring with sleek, functional workwear, reflecting the designer’s personal journey through bureaucracy and artistic collaboration. The collection fuses Ghanaian heritage with futuristic design. Hart was also named a finalist for the 2024 Camera Moda Fashion Trust Grant.
Thebe Magugu (South Africa)
Thebe Magugu is a luxury South African brand that fuses African cultural heritage with contemporary design. Founded by Thebe Magugu, the brand emphasises quality, novelty, and self-evolving timelessness. In 2024, Magugu’s “HERITAGE III: Lobola Negotiations” collection explored the tradition of Lobola through modern silhouettes. He also partnered with (RED) for the “Custom Heirloom Ensemble” to raise funds for AIDS research. Magugu further expanded his brand with the “Magugu F.C” jersey, a stylish take on soccer fashion, and debuted his “Reparations” collection at Paris Fashion Week, exploring personal reconciliation.
Zyne (Morocco)
Zyne, founded by Zineb Britel and Laura Pujol, is a luxury footwear brand dedicated to bringing the traditional Moroccan babouche into the 21st century. Both founders, with backgrounds in top Parisian fashion houses like Christian Dior and Christian Louboutin, returned to Morocco to merge heritage craftsmanship with contemporary design. Their mission focuses on empowering local women artisans by producing handmade, high-quality footwear. Zyne’s designs blend the iconic babouche silhouette with modern embellishments, offering a fresh take on a centuries-old Moroccan tradition. In 2024, Zyne expanded globally, partnering with retailers like Net-a-Porter and unveiling collections such as Les Vacances, reflecting the brand’s understanding of heritage and modern luxury.
LilaBare (Kenya)
LilaBare, founded by Ria Ana Sejpa, is a sustainable fashion brand based in Kenya, that takes pride in infusing ancient craftsmanship with modern design. Inspired by Sejpa’s Indian-Kenyan heritage, LilaBare uses locally sourced, natural materials and supports artisans through fair wages. The brand’s garments are gender-fluid, size-inclusive, and crafted from eco-friendly fibres, celebrating both culture and sustainability. In 2024, LilaBare showcased at Lagos Fashion Week, unveiling collaborations like the Firenze Kimono—a fusion of Kenyan cotton and Tuscan craftsmanship. Their designs, such as the Banana Waste Blazer and Beaded Halterneck, further emphasise the brand’s commitment to sustainable fashion, transforming waste materials into luxurious, timeless pieces.
Boyedoe (Ghana)
Founded in 2020 by David Boye-Doe and Nana Kwadwo Duah, Boyedoe is an afro-luxurious brand that combines African heritage with sustainability. The brand’s deconstructed designs, inspired by the Sankofa bird, combine masculinity and femininity with a focus on upcycling materials like denim. Boyedoe uses 80% recycled materials and emphasizes ethical production, making each piece a celebration of African craftsmanship. Recognised as a finalist for ARISE Fashion Week’s 30 Under 30 and VLISCO Fashion Fund, Boyedoe continued its eco-conscious journey in 2024, showcasing at Paris Fashion Week and Lagos Fashion Week while promoting a vision of sustainable luxury.
Sisiano (Nigeria)
Sisiano, founded by dancer and creative director Sisiano Paolo in 2013, fuses romance, fluidity, and sensuality into its designs. Inspired by Paolo’s personal connections and the natural world, the brand creates ethereal garments that evoke nostalgia and emotion. The 2024 “Lost Song” collection at Lagos Fashion Week captured attention with its flowing silhouettes and dreamy textures, showcasing Paolo’s unique ability to tell stories through fabric.
Conclusion
African fashion continues to soar, with designers pushing creative boundaries and telling rich, culturally rooted stories through their collections with clear unique directions. The brands highlighted in this article represent the best of 2024 and embody the spirit of innovation, inclusivity, and pride in African heritage.
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