get to know our exhibitors
The
Exhibitors
Akpos Okudu
Akpos Okudu Nwokekoro has been a force to reckon with in the fashion landscape in Nigeria for over 15 years. Since she launched the label in 2009, the brand has left an indelible mark in the fashion scene in Port Harcourt; being one of the the pioneers of ready-to-wear category in the city.
Under Akpos’s direction the brand has gained national and international recognition; showing her collections on various runways both home and abroad.
Her label has been a staple at the African fashion week London for over 3 years .
Her passion for the arts is worthy of commendation; she was named “designer of the year 2022” by fashion city awards, nominated by the Future Awards (2011 & 2022) and MTN (2011) for the “young designer of the year award”.
As a wife and mother of 3 amazing children, legacy is important to her. She is passionate about inspiring the next generation of fashion designers. Over the years she has trained and mentored over 100 young designers.
She describes her clothes as Feminine, functional pieces which has been worn by celebrities, authors, titans of industry and more. The likes of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie , Mercy Johnson, Juliet Ibrahim, Joke Silva, Stephanie Okereke, Toolz, Omawunmi, Tara Fela Durotoye and Adesuwa Oyenokwe have all worn her pieces.
Under Akpos’s direction the brand has gained national and international recognition; showing her collections on various runways both home and abroad.
Her label has been a staple at the African fashion week London for over 3 years .
Her passion for the arts is worthy of commendation; she was named “designer of the year 2022” by fashion city awards, nominated by the Future Awards (2011 & 2022) and MTN (2011) for the “young designer of the year award”.
As a wife and mother of 3 amazing children, legacy is important to her. She is passionate about inspiring the next generation of fashion designers. Over the years she has trained and mentored over 100 young designers.
She describes her clothes as Feminine, functional pieces which has been worn by celebrities, authors, titans of industry and more. The likes of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie , Mercy Johnson, Juliet Ibrahim, Joke Silva, Stephanie Okereke, Toolz, Omawunmi, Tara Fela Durotoye and Adesuwa Oyenokwe have all worn her pieces.
Adjoua Pam
Representing Ghana, Jemima Bentiwa Duncan’s brand Adjoua-Pam infuses old and new techniques into every project. She believes that wearing the right fitted clothes are not only a fundamental part of fashion excellence but are also the building blocks of confident and comfort for the individual woman.
My Story
My passion for making clothes from an obsession with not always find the right clothes as and when you need them. Nominated as best student in my year group, I hold qualifications from Accra Technical University and certificates from Accra’s top design institution Joyce Ababio College of creative design, Ghana where I tutored pattern making working one-on-one with the students.
Over the past 10 years I have since set up my own studio providing custom made wear across the fashion range and working with partners to design and sew classy yet simple, comfortable womenswear for every occasion.
My Story
My passion for making clothes from an obsession with not always find the right clothes as and when you need them. Nominated as best student in my year group, I hold qualifications from Accra Technical University and certificates from Accra’s top design institution Joyce Ababio College of creative design, Ghana where I tutored pattern making working one-on-one with the students.
Over the past 10 years I have since set up my own studio providing custom made wear across the fashion range and working with partners to design and sew classy yet simple, comfortable womenswear for every occasion.
Aṣọ
The London-based Aṣọ lifestyle brand produces sweat-shop free quality contemporary African-inspired clothing, accessories, jewelry, stationary, and art for all.
Named after the Yoruba word for ‘cloth’ - the Aṣọ brand brings together many threads of the African diaspora to create collections that represent our journeys- past, present, and future.
Named after the Yoruba word for ‘cloth’ - the Aṣọ brand brings together many threads of the African diaspora to create collections that represent our journeys- past, present, and future.
Bittany
Bittany is a fashion brand from Africa founded by Fikayomi Agbola, a visionary entrepreneur driven by her passion for fashion and her unwavering determination to turn adversity into opportunity. Bittany began as a response to disappointments with tailors, blossoming from a mere hobby into an exquisite celebration of African culture and heritage through beautifully crafted designs made for everyone! Our goal is to put a smile on people’s faces and make African fashion accessible worldwide. Bittany embraces family values which birthed the ARÁBÁMBI Collection: Read here:https://bittany.co.uk/collections/all
With the tagline "Be unapologetically unique," Bittany empowers individuals to embrace their personal style while upholding core values of integrity, creativity, and teamwork in every aspect of their operations. This brand is not just about fashion; it advocates slow fashion and sustainability through upcycling techniques and offering alteration and repair services, ensuring the longevity of garments.
But the impact of Bittany goes beyond fashion. Fikayomi's dedication extends to job creation for artisans in Africa and supporting the gig economy in the UK through the sustainable fashion sister business, KÁYÒMI. Driven by a passion for fashion, sustainability, and positive impact, Bittany seeks to make a difference in the world, one stitch at a time. As the African fashion week London approaches, Bittany stands as an exemplar of creativity, cultural richness, and a commitment to a better world.
With the tagline "Be unapologetically unique," Bittany empowers individuals to embrace their personal style while upholding core values of integrity, creativity, and teamwork in every aspect of their operations. This brand is not just about fashion; it advocates slow fashion and sustainability through upcycling techniques and offering alteration and repair services, ensuring the longevity of garments.
But the impact of Bittany goes beyond fashion. Fikayomi's dedication extends to job creation for artisans in Africa and supporting the gig economy in the UK through the sustainable fashion sister business, KÁYÒMI. Driven by a passion for fashion, sustainability, and positive impact, Bittany seeks to make a difference in the world, one stitch at a time. As the African fashion week London approaches, Bittany stands as an exemplar of creativity, cultural richness, and a commitment to a better world.
Cokaigne
In 2008 a young Nigerian/ Brazilian woman named Linda Fashakin nee Ajileye planted a seed of clothing and pattern ideas she had while living in Boston, MA.
She started a clothing company called Cokaigne (cKg) which means land of plenty, land of luxurious living. Cokaigne represents the free spirited woman, confident and daring. The woman who does not adhere to the social norms of society, the rebel and the feminist.
She started a clothing company called Cokaigne (cKg) which means land of plenty, land of luxurious living. Cokaigne represents the free spirited woman, confident and daring. The woman who does not adhere to the social norms of society, the rebel and the feminist.
DS Africaines
Representing France, DS Africaines is a handbags brand that honours African fabrics.
Designer, Sally Diedhiou creates limited edition of handbags with her own hands, using traditional fabrics to create a modern version of African-inspired bag: mixing tradition, culture and modernity.
Designer, Sally Diedhiou creates limited edition of handbags with her own hands, using traditional fabrics to create a modern version of African-inspired bag: mixing tradition, culture and modernity.
DOLA
DOLA is a distinguished Nigerian luxury jewellery brand that seamlessly marries Yoruba heritage with contemporary elegance.
Founded in 2018 and now based in London, DOLA is renowned for crafting timeless, sustainable pieces that celebrate the rich cultural tapestry of Africa.
Their exquisite collections feature meticulously designed earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and more, all inspired by the traditions, craftsmanship, and artistry of the African continent.
Each piece embodies a unique story, bridging the gap between heritage and modernity. Explore the allure of African beauty through jewellery, where every creation resonates with the soul of Africa.
Founded in 2018 and now based in London, DOLA is renowned for crafting timeless, sustainable pieces that celebrate the rich cultural tapestry of Africa.
Their exquisite collections feature meticulously designed earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and more, all inspired by the traditions, craftsmanship, and artistry of the African continent.
Each piece embodies a unique story, bridging the gap between heritage and modernity. Explore the allure of African beauty through jewellery, where every creation resonates with the soul of Africa.
Ethnicity Clothing
Ethnicity Clothing is a movement that produces quality afro eccentric clothing for women, men and children with a focus on investing and building a technical institute for garment manufacturing in African.
Grass Fields
Grass-Fields Clothing Brand founded in 2013, is a leading name in the fashion industry, known for its captivating designs and exceptional quality. With a passion for celebrating individuality and diversity, we take pride in creating unique pieces that empower and inspire. Our brand has become synonymous with style, effortlessly blending traditional African aesthetics with a modern twist. Every garment is meticulously crafted by our team of skilled artisans, ensuring attention to detail and bright colours.
At Grass-Fields, our customers hold a special place in our hearts. We cherish the relationships we have built over the years, and their satisfaction is our ultimate goal. From the moment you step into our world, you are greeted with warmth and a genuine desire to make you feel extraordinary. We strive to provide an unforgettable shopping experience, with personalized assistance and a wide range of sizes to cater to all body types.
Our customers' happiness is the driving force behind everything we do. We listen to their needs, their desires, and their stories, using them as inspiration to constantly innovate and create fashion-forward designs. We believe in the power of fashion to uplift, connect, and empower individuals, and we make it our mission to deliver that experience to each and every customer.
Discover the magic of Grass-Fields and let us help you express your unique style with confidence and grace.
At Grass-Fields, our customers hold a special place in our hearts. We cherish the relationships we have built over the years, and their satisfaction is our ultimate goal. From the moment you step into our world, you are greeted with warmth and a genuine desire to make you feel extraordinary. We strive to provide an unforgettable shopping experience, with personalized assistance and a wide range of sizes to cater to all body types.
Our customers' happiness is the driving force behind everything we do. We listen to their needs, their desires, and their stories, using them as inspiration to constantly innovate and create fashion-forward designs. We believe in the power of fashion to uplift, connect, and empower individuals, and we make it our mission to deliver that experience to each and every customer.
Discover the magic of Grass-Fields and let us help you express your unique style with confidence and grace.
House of Hohwa
Representing Zimbabwe, House of Hohwa is Premium Street Ethnic brand inspired by the need for cultural expression in modern Africa. HOH taps into the different stories and diverse cultures found throughout the continent.
Launched in 2013, Hohwa is the native Shona name for mushroom. The connotation of the mushroom is a concept that is central to Designer Kuda Matiza and similar to the mushroom the unique, urban-ethnic asthetics come in various shapes, sizes and colours, characteristic of the rich and diverse cultural backgrounds of modern Africa.
House of Hohwa was also named by Forbes Magazine as one of “20 Creative Fashion Brands for 2020”.
Launched in 2013, Hohwa is the native Shona name for mushroom. The connotation of the mushroom is a concept that is central to Designer Kuda Matiza and similar to the mushroom the unique, urban-ethnic asthetics come in various shapes, sizes and colours, characteristic of the rich and diverse cultural backgrounds of modern Africa.
House of Hohwa was also named by Forbes Magazine as one of “20 Creative Fashion Brands for 2020”.
IFFIZI
IFFIZI is fashion for bold and fabulous people, made in Nigeria. IFFIZI works with African fabrics and tailoring, infused with European style.
IFFIZI is a Belgian-Nigerian power tandem coming together to build a sustainable and innovative brand. Sandra Alonge, IFFIZI’s creative director, started making her own clothes as a young teenager and has worked both in development and fashion communication before falling in love with African fabrics.
The name of the brand mixes Nigerian and European culture, referring to the UFFIZI gallery in Florence, Italy and EFIZI in Yoruba slang, meaning cool, trendy, stylish.
The tagline – Na shakara – signifies drop dead gorgeous and is also a reference to one of Fela Kuti’s hits.
IFFIZI is a Belgian-Nigerian power tandem coming together to build a sustainable and innovative brand. Sandra Alonge, IFFIZI’s creative director, started making her own clothes as a young teenager and has worked both in development and fashion communication before falling in love with African fabrics.
The name of the brand mixes Nigerian and European culture, referring to the UFFIZI gallery in Florence, Italy and EFIZI in Yoruba slang, meaning cool, trendy, stylish.
The tagline – Na shakara – signifies drop dead gorgeous and is also a reference to one of Fela Kuti’s hits.
Ik-Pen
ÌK-PEN is a luxury women’s fashion brand based in Abuja, Nigeria. The brand was founded in 2006 by Ikpen Yvonne Akwitti with the desire for perfection and craftsmanship.
The brand is African inspired with contemporary designs. It’s known for its bespoke services and prêt-a-porter. Her prêt a porter line engages ethnic details and fascinating silhouettes, providing timeless pieces for its opulent clientele, ranging from traditional bridal attires, every day classics, resort and glamorous dresses.
“For the sophisticated woman with style”.
The brand is African inspired with contemporary designs. It’s known for its bespoke services and prêt-a-porter. Her prêt a porter line engages ethnic details and fascinating silhouettes, providing timeless pieces for its opulent clientele, ranging from traditional bridal attires, every day classics, resort and glamorous dresses.
“For the sophisticated woman with style”.
K3D Couture
K3D Couture started in 2018, in Nigeria as an affordable luxury clothing brand, filling in the gap between ready-made/ bespoke luxurious lifestyle.
Their work ethics are based on a strong knitted family, a passion for design and luxury.
Founder Designer, Faith Florence Emmanuel Obot has been working on making creative masterpieces year after year.
Their work ethics are based on a strong knitted family, a passion for design and luxury.
Founder Designer, Faith Florence Emmanuel Obot has been working on making creative masterpieces year after year.
Lara Diamond
Lara Diamond Design was founded by our creative director Lara Akinrele in 2014. Lara Diamond is a ready-to-wear womenswear brand that appeals to women who are stylish, fun, enjoy fashion, love experimenting with prints, and want luxurious pieces that are meticulously tailored, all within an affordable price point. Our fabrics are breathable, fuss-free, and feel effortless when worn. There is a sophisticated element to every one of the pieces which makes them an essential part of every capsule wardrobe.
Lara Diamond every piece is proudly made in Africa. Our factories are based in the heart of Lagos Nigeria while our major stockist is based in Nigeria from where pieces are shipped worldwide. Sustainable and ethical processes are at the heart of our design and manufacturing processes. Our fabrics are sourced from local artisans/dye artists who depend on brands like ours for a continuous cycle of business and livelihood while in-house, our pieces are produced in small runs to preserve quality, authenticity, and avoidance of waste.
Lara Diamond every piece is proudly made in Africa. Our factories are based in the heart of Lagos Nigeria while our major stockist is based in Nigeria from where pieces are shipped worldwide. Sustainable and ethical processes are at the heart of our design and manufacturing processes. Our fabrics are sourced from local artisans/dye artists who depend on brands like ours for a continuous cycle of business and livelihood while in-house, our pieces are produced in small runs to preserve quality, authenticity, and avoidance of waste.
MIch & Barj
MiCH & BARJ is a fashion brand out of Nigeria known for Afro-centric apparel that are chic, comfy and elegant for the discerning customer who loves contemporary yet premium and timeless elegance. Our use of indigenously hand-dyed Adire and Batik textiles continues to honour our Nigerian roots and dedicated Artisans who make our designs come to life.
Milaseto
The Milaseto brand offers a unique experience of African culture through patterns and colours that tell stories of heritage and creativity by using traditional adire textile creation techniques to transform luxurious fabrics such as chiffons, silks, organza and cotton into masterpieces of art.
Founded in 2018 by Lara Ojowa, the brand brings together skilled women artisans create the textiles making Milaseto's creations a cultural narratives that represent the vibrancy of African culture and push the Adire narrative to new heights.
The brand’s mission is to promote and preserve the rich African dye art form while dreaming of a world where our locally-made fabrics are made into stylish, modest, well-tailored sought-after pieces that adorn both men and women at home worldwide.
The commitment to sustainability and responsibility ensures a near-to-zero waste policy that upcycles leftover materials into beautiful earrings, accessories, bags, and more. By choosing Milaseto, customers are investing in a sustainable future and celebrating and preserving a vital slice of Africa's artistic spirit.
Founded in 2018 by Lara Ojowa, the brand brings together skilled women artisans create the textiles making Milaseto's creations a cultural narratives that represent the vibrancy of African culture and push the Adire narrative to new heights.
The brand’s mission is to promote and preserve the rich African dye art form while dreaming of a world where our locally-made fabrics are made into stylish, modest, well-tailored sought-after pieces that adorn both men and women at home worldwide.
The commitment to sustainability and responsibility ensures a near-to-zero waste policy that upcycles leftover materials into beautiful earrings, accessories, bags, and more. By choosing Milaseto, customers are investing in a sustainable future and celebrating and preserving a vital slice of Africa's artistic spirit.
Simeogieme
Simeogieme is a fashionably diverse luxury clothing brand priding itself in exclusivity, originality and quality. Our ethos is simplicity, sensuality and sophistication. The Creative Director, Osime Saibu, is a fashion enthusiast with a passion for designing clothing and accessories. She launched the clothing brand Simeogieme in 2010.
With each design, she aims to exemplify harmony that can be attained in the fusion of diversity, by mixing various patterns, vibrant colours, textures, themes and occasionally, a combination of different fabric types to create harmony in contemporary fashion. She draws inspiration from Africa’s love for vibrant colour and eclectic fashion. Her collections echo her ethos which is “Simplicity, Sensuality & Sophistication”.
Till date, she has worked on five main Collections:
With each design, she aims to exemplify harmony that can be attained in the fusion of diversity, by mixing various patterns, vibrant colours, textures, themes and occasionally, a combination of different fabric types to create harmony in contemporary fashion. She draws inspiration from Africa’s love for vibrant colour and eclectic fashion. Her collections echo her ethos which is “Simplicity, Sensuality & Sophistication”.
Till date, she has worked on five main Collections:
Tesmaraneh
Tesmaraneh is a medium enterprise (SME) that produces beautiful locally made fabrics, timeless wearable designs and accessories for women. that aims to reduce importation of textile/clothing from China and other developed nations. The brand also uses fashion to create skills for women, girls, and tailors to reduce unemployment by providing decent work leading to economic growth, reduction in gender inequality and promotion of inclusive prosperity.
Tesmaraneh was officially founded since 2018 and is based in Sierra Leone. It was awarded the Tony Elumelu Entrepreneurship grant in 2019 and in 2021, the founder Isatu Bundu was awarded as a Laureate of Women in Africa
Tesmaraneh was officially founded since 2018 and is based in Sierra Leone. It was awarded the Tony Elumelu Entrepreneurship grant in 2019 and in 2021, the founder Isatu Bundu was awarded as a Laureate of Women in Africa
You Soo Shady
You Soo Shady is owned by eyewear enthusiasts who wanted to create an affordable and a bang on trend brand.
Their motto is ‘Fashion For Your Face’, head turning and daring eyewear, but what makes You Soo Shady happy most of all is the happy reactions from our customers.
Their motto is ‘Fashion For Your Face’, head turning and daring eyewear, but what makes You Soo Shady happy most of all is the happy reactions from our customers.
Zapel
Zapel, is an award-winning sustainable premium apparel and accessory brand made in Nigeria on a mission to tell narratives through design and taking authentic made fabric, apparel and leather works from Africa to the world.
The brands collections are made from hand woven fabrics and recycled cotton fabrics which were hand-dyed using traditional techniques, botanical dyeing, and hand painting. The brand ranges from dresses, pants, jackets, jumpsuits and leather bags.
Zapel takes time to empower and take steps to curb local unemployment by using local Akwete fabric producers in Akwete, eastern rural Nigeria.
The brands collections are made from hand woven fabrics and recycled cotton fabrics which were hand-dyed using traditional techniques, botanical dyeing, and hand painting. The brand ranges from dresses, pants, jackets, jumpsuits and leather bags.
Zapel takes time to empower and take steps to curb local unemployment by using local Akwete fabric producers in Akwete, eastern rural Nigeria.