Africa, the home of the best traditional designs has continued to make its mark in the world’s fashion scene. From Akwete materials in Nigeria to Kente in Ghana, African designers and boutiques showcase trendy designs this festive season. In December, let's look at African Designers and Boutiques making a mark on fashion shows and even in the everyday streets.

Lisa Folawiyo (Nigeria)

The Queen of Ankara, Lisa Folawiyo uses traditional African fabric called Ankara (a wax-resistant fabric of African origin) and a mixture of beads to create unique and classy designs. Her brand which is known as Jewel by Lisa has showcased designs on Fashion shows in London, Lagos, Johannesburg, Paris, and New York, and featured in publications like Vogue and the New York Times. Her showrooms are located in Nigeria and New York.

Thebe Magugu (South Africa)

For women who are looking for the next ready-to-wear design of African origin this festive season, South African stylist Thebe Magugu offers an array of exquisite designs that are tailored to meet your fashion expectations.

Based in Johannesburg, South Africa, Magugu infuses quality with a mixture of culture and freshness into his collections.

Read also:

5 Best African Fashion Designers.

African designers have long been cast in the shadow of their more visible European colleagues, often victims of cultural appropriation, Western exploitation, and outright design theft. Read More » 

Kwaku Bediako (Ghana)

Steve Harvey, Ziggy Ansah, Boris Kodjoe, Jussie Smollett, Idris Elba, and Mr Eazi have a thing or two to say about the brand Chocolate Clothes Global by Kwaku Bediako. The men’s fashion outfit which is based in Ghana was birthed out of a need by Ghanaians to dress in comfortable and distinctive African wear.

The uniquely tailored designs have gotten recognition from powerful individuals in the world and were one of the collections displayed by the President of Ghana during the visit of His Royal Highness, the Prince of Wales.

If you are looking for that next bespoke outfit to gift your man this festive season, then Chocolate Clothes Global is the place to shop.

Beyond branded designers, Africa also plays host to some of the best boutiques in the world displaying innovative and unique designer collections of emerging and reputable African brands along with a selection of exquisite accessories.

Both offline and online, these boutiques offer an array of selections which are certain to make you stand out during this festive season.

The Space (South Africa)

Located in Claremont in the city of Cape Town, South Africa, the boutique offers a diverse collection of African designers as well as non-African brands. Along with its collection of accessories, the space offers a unique shopping experience.

Read also:

7 Black-Owned Travel Goodies to Grab for Your Next Trip

For your gifting needs this holiday season, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite chic and useful travel products made by Black-owned businesses. Read More » 

Rwanda Clothing (Rwanda)

Located in Kigali, the boutique offers custom-made clothing designed in Rwanda along with other well-tailored outfits for men, women, and children at pocket-friendly prices.

Alara (Nigeria)

Alara in Lagos, Nigeria showcases a wide selection of African and International design pieces. Along with a collection of accessories, the boutique exhibits design from emerging and recognized African designers.

Read also:

A Guide to Shopping Black-Owned Businesses in South Africa

"Local is Lekker” is a common South African phrase meaning the things close to home are often the best. Read More » 

Afrikrea (Online)

Afrikrea is an online African clothing and accessories platform that offers an extensive range of African wears and accessories for men, women, and kids. Whether it is African fabric, jewelry, bags, etc, Afrikrea offers good shipping deals and discount prices.

Laviye (Online)

Laviye is an online clothing and fashion accessories store catering to the both sexes especially those in the diaspora who seek to own designs that reminds them of their African heritage.

In this festive season, African designers and boutiques are offering carefully curated pieces of bold prints, and vibrant colors, that continues to project the powerful beauty of the African culture.

Read also:

10 Black-Owned Ethical Clothing Brands You Should Know

From shoes to dresses and swimsuits, these 10 Black-owned brands have what you need to head out in a sustainable and ethical style. Read More » 

 Okechukwu Nzeribe works with the Onitsha Chamber of Commerce, in Anambra State, Nigeria, and loves unveiling the richness of African cultures. [email protected]

Read more from Okechukwu Nzeribe:

Jingle Sales: Guide Your Business Through the December Economic Landscape

Across Africa, Micro-Enterprise businesses are working round the clock to navigate the economic landscape. Read More » 

 

Are Bioluminescent Beaches Natural Wonders After Dark or …?

While bioluminescent beaches might offer spectacular views, the often tempting need for humans to dive into the depths and swim amongst the enchanting glow always comes with a measure of ... Read More » 

 

The Great Rift Valley: A Geological Wonder and Haven for Paleontology

Stretching over 6,400 kilometers from the Middle East to Mozambique in East Africa, the Great Rift Valley is a prime example of the Earth’s powerful forces at work. Read More »