As 2024 draws to a close, we focus on designers making or poised to make waves in the industry in the coming year. From South Africa to Cameroon, these five exceptional brands are changing how we dress and consume fashion for the better. Not only are they reimagining African design aesthetics and storytelling, but they’re also reclaiming the narrative of African fashion and shaping the next era of luxury and ethical production.
Kilentar
Offering feminine garments with highly textured, lush materials, Kilentar was established by Michelle Adepoju to shift the fashion industry’s outlook on design and consumption through conscious African-inspired production methods. Drawing inspiration from her Nigerian heritage, her brand is dedicated to artisanal and ancient design techniques synonymous with the continent including dyeing and weaving. Their collections embrace timeless design with a fun contemporary spirit, capturing the essence of the modern woman.
Maison D’afie
Founded by Sarah Divine Garba, Maison D’afie redefines mid-century style with a uniquely Cameroonian twist. Her brand is defined by clean lines, functional cuts, and polished sophistication, offering impeccably crafted garments and one-of-a-kind accessories. Garba also works with a global network of artisans to produce illustriously handwoven custom and breathable fabrics, ensuring that every collection is a testament to its slow fashion values, quality, and comfort.
Nhlanhla Masemola
Based in South Africa, Nhlanhla Masemola’s eponymous unisex brand explores staple dressing with youthfully modern updates. For example, their men’s shirts come with delightfully exaggerated collars and elongated sleeves and hemlines, a feature that is slowly becoming a signature for the brand. Presenting small exclusive collections communicated through stunning visuals and campaigns, Nhlanhla Masemola embodies sophisticated dressing for discerning men and women, reflecting the bold future of South African fashion and men’s style in particular.
Simone & Elise
Adored by leading businesswomen like Bozoma Saint John, Simone and Elise is a women’s fashion brand founded in Cote d’Ivoire. The brand offers grand creations in bright colours and captivating details. Inspired by their love for art, design duo Simone and Elise decorate their pieces with bold artworks ranging from female portraits and blooming florals to tribal references. Tulle gowns, billowy dresses, and boubou pieces are peppered with a contemporary flair while capturing some elements of Ivorian traditional dressing.
Vicnate
Vicnate is a Nigeria-based label founded by Victor Anate. The designer beautifully combines the timeless elegance of West African craft with classical European sartorial influences. Vicnate proposes ultra-glamorous collections that offer both freedom and confidence. Anate’s garments blend the worlds of romance, literature and film, resulting in a series of seductive pieces that celebrate sensuality and statement dressing. With its effortless chic attitude, intricate details, and refined overall style, it’s easy to recognise Vicnate’s effortless appeal.
