7 Sustainable African Fashion Brands to Shop and Support

Written by: Vanessa Cuevas

In today’s world, where the ecological harm of the fashion industry is becoming increasingly evident, sustainability has become a necessity, not a mere option. Sustainable fashion includes ethical sourcing, ecologically friendly production methods, fair wages, community engagement and empowerment, upcycling, and several other practices that aim at reducing the environmental impact of the fashion industry. The following are seven African fashion brands that prioritize sustainability and that you can shop and support today. Explore them with Afrique Noire.

 

 

1. Iamisigo (Nigeria): Founded in 2013 by designer Bubu Ogisi, Iamisigo is a womenswear brand based between Lagos, Nairobi, and Accra that strives to preserve the ancestral African textile techniques of the designer’s heritage. Ogisi works with artisans across Africa, highlighting their ancient techniques in pieces that are designed to be wearable art. Iamisigo’s aesthetic is a stunning combination of minimalist pieces in vibrant colors and rich, earthy hues. The brand’s deepest commitment to sustainability is in the way it spotlights the artistry of traditional African artisans.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamisigo/?hl=en

Website: https://iamisigo.com/

 

 

 

2. Studio 189 (Ghana): Founded in 2013 by actor and activist Rosario Dawson and entrepreneur Abrima Erwiah, Studio 189 is an African-inspired lifestyle and fashion brand based in Accra. The brand focuses on creating unique pieces that blend traditional African textile techniques like natural hand-batik, indigo, and kente-weaving with modern silhouettes, resulting in garments that are unique and versatile. Studio 189 prioritizes sustainability by employing local artisans in Ghana and incorporating traditional techniques like natural, plant-based dyeing into their collections.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/studiooneeightynine

Website: https://studiooneeightynine.com/

 

 

 

3. Bornstarng (Nigeria): Bornstarng is a Nigerian fashion brand founded in 2020 by Adedamola Adebayo. The brand produces clothing in vibrant colors and atemporal silhouettes utilizing upcycled and eco-friendly textiles. Sustainability is a foundational component of this brand, which prioritizes not only sustainable production methods but also ethical sourcing and fair working conditions for its artisans.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bornstarng/

Website:  https://linkin.bio/bornstarng/

 

 

 

4. KikoRomeo (Kenya): Founded in 1996 by Christine-Ann McCreath, a Scottish fashion designer based in Nairobi, and now under the creative direction of Iona McCreath, KikoRomeo is a Kenyan fashion brand celebrated for its fusion of African heritage with modern silhouettes. The brand’s aesthetic is characterized by impeccable tailoring in vibrant colors and innovative silhouettes, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Kenya. KikoRomeo employs ecologically friendly materials and ethical production practices, supporting local artisans and promoting environmental conservation.

 

 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kikoromeo/?hl=en

Website: https://kikoromeo.com/

 

 

 

5. Mafi Mafi (Ethiopia): Founded in 2011 by Mahlet Afework, Mafi Mafi is an Ethiopian fashion brand that blends the traditional with the modern. Designer Afework, a former model and musician, creates pieces incorporating handwoven Ethiopian textiles and contemporary silhouettes. The brand is increasingly gaining recognition for its unique aesthetic, characterized by intricate patterns, as well as for its commitment to sustainability. Mafi Mafi empowers women by employing female weavers and using organic cotton in its designs.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mafimafi.et/

Website: https://www.mafimafiet.com/

 

 

 

6. Mayamiko (Malawi): This Malawian brand, founded in 2013, is the brainchild of Paola Masperi, an Italian fashion designer with a passion for ethical fashion. Bold, intricate patterns, earthy colors, and timeless designs characterize Mayamiko’s aesthetic. Inspired by the rich cultural heritage of Malawi, the brand collaborates with local artisans to create exquisite garments blending traditional African textiles with modern silhouettes. Mayamiko implements fair trade practices, supports community development initiatives, and utilizes primarily eco-friendly materials and production methods.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mayamikodesigned/

Website: https://mayamiko.com/

 

 

7. Imane Ayissi (Cameroon): Founded in 2004 by the Cameroonian-born designer of the same name, Imane Ayissi fuses African heritage with an aesthetic that is distinctly haute couture. Inspired by the designer’s cultural roots and experiences, Ayissi’s designs both celebrate traditional production techniques and embrace modern aesthetics. The brand is well-known for its commitment to sustainability, employing ethical sourcing of its materials, and ecologically friendly production practices in its manufacturing. Ayissi’s creations exemplify exquisite African craftsmanship and a dedication to environmental and social responsibility.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imane_ayissi/?hl=en

Website: https://www.imane-ayissi.com/en/

 

 

Through these brands and others strongly committed to sustainability, Africa plays a crucial role in paving the way toward a fashion industry that is kinder to the planet and its inhabitants. When African fashion brands prioritize eco-conscious practices, they contribute to environmental preservation, economic growth, and social development within their communities. Each of these seven fashion brands shows that sustainability and success can go hand in hand, and their efforts contribute toward protecting and preserving our planet for future generations.

 

 

Stay connected with Afrique Noire Magazine here on Instagram. And join our fast-growing community here on TikTok.

 

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