Africa isn’t just influencing fashion—it’s redefining luxury one runway at a time. From bold prints to intricate couture, these designers are proving that African fashion isn’t a trend; it’s the future. With a perfect blend of heritage, craftsmanship, and unapologetic style, these brands have taken over global runways and red carpets, dressing icons like Beyoncé, Naomi Campbell, and Zendaya. If you thought luxury fashion only came from Paris or Milan, think again—Africa has entered the chat, and it’s here to stay.
Maxhosa Africa
Maxhosa Africa, the brainchild of South African designer Laduma Ngxokolo, is what happens when tradition and modern style get married—and have fabulously dressed babies. Since launching in 2012, Maxhosa has become the go-to brand for luxurious knitwear inspired by traditional Xhosa beadwork. Picture bold colors, intricate patterns, and craftsmanship so good it could make your grandmother’s knitting look basic. This brand is everywhere, from New York Fashion Week to international boutiques. And let’s not forget the ultimate fashion flex: Beyoncé rocked Maxhosa in Black Is King. If Beyonce approves, you know it’s elite. Other stars like Alicia Keys and DJ Black Coffee have also been spotted wearing Maxhosa, proving that this brand isn’t just for the culture—it is the culture.
Tongoro
Senegalese designer Sarah Diouf didn’t come to play when she founded Tongoro in 2016—she came to change the game. Focused on sustainable, ethical fashion, Tongoro is all about supporting local artisans while serving up some serious style. If you’re looking for effortless, flowy silhouettes with a modern African twist, this brand is your best bet. And let’s talk about Beyoncé (again, because when it comes to African luxury fashion, she’s basically the unofficial ambassador). She wore Tongoro not once, not twice, but multiple times in Spirit and Black Is King. Naomi Campbell and Alicia Keys have also been spotted in Tongoro, proving that this brand has mastered the art of making African prints look effortlessly chic.
Loza Maléombho
If futuristic African royalty was a vibe, it would be Loza Maléombho. Founded in 2009 by the Ivorian designer of the same name, this brand is all about structured silhouettes, bold details, and a whole lot of attitude. Loza Maléombho’s designs make you look like you just stepped out of a sci-fi movie set in Wakanda (and honestly, who wouldn’t want that?). The brand has turned heads at New York Fashion Week and Lagos Fashion Week, and its pieces have been worn by some of the coolest women in music—Beyoncé, Solange Knowles, and Kelly Rowland. If you want to wear something that screams power, creativity, and high fashion, this is it.
Thebe Magugu
Thebe Magugu is not just making clothes—he’s telling stories, and oh boy, are they good ones. Since launching his brand in 2016, the South African designer has been blending modern tailoring with deep cultural narratives, making fashion that feels both sophisticated and meaningful. In 2019, he made history by becoming the first African designer to win the LVMH Prize—basically, the fashion equivalent of winning an Oscar on your first film. His designs have been showcased at Paris Fashion Week and are even displayed in museums. Rihanna, Zendaya, and Naomi Campbell have all rocked Thebe Magugu, and if that’s not the ultimate style endorsement, what is?
Imane Ayissi
Imane Ayissi has been in the game for over two decades, and trust me, you can see the experience in his work. This Cameroonian designer takes traditional African textiles and gives them the haute couture treatment, making pieces that are elegant, refined, and just the right amount of extra. In 2020, he made history by becoming the first Black African designer to present at Paris Haute Couture Week, proving once again that African fashion belongs on the world’s biggest stages. Hollywood darlings like Zendaya, Lupita Nyong’o, and Janelle Monáe have all worn his designs, bringing a touch of African royalty to red carpets worldwide.
Deola Sagoe
If African fashion had a royal family, Deola Sagoe would be sitting on the throne, wearing one of her own stunning designs, of course. A true pioneer, she launched her brand in 1989—long before African luxury fashion was even a thing. Known for her intricate embroidery and jaw-dropping couture pieces, Deola Sagoe was one of the first African designers to showcase at New York Fashion Week. Even Oprah Winfrey (yes, the Oprah) has publicly praised her, and when Oprah speaks, the world listens. Celebrities like Beyoncé, Jada Pinkett Smith, and Nollywood queen Genevieve Nnaji have all worn her creations, proving that Deola Sagoe is and always will be an icon.
Lisa Folawiyo
Lisa Folawiyo looked at traditional Ankara prints and said, Let’s make this high fashion. And boy, did she deliver. Since launching in 2005, she has taken African prints to a whole new level, adding hand embellishments, intricate beadwork, and a luxury feel that makes each piece look like wearable art. Her designs have been featured in Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and Elle, and they’re stocked in high-end boutiques across the U.S. and Europe. A-list fans of Lisa Folawiyo include Lupita Nyong’o, Solange Knowles, and Issa Rae, all of whom have been spotted in her stylish, vibrant pieces. If you ever need proof that Ankara can be luxurious, Lisa Folawiyo is it.
