The Ghanaian fashion scene is a lively and ever-evolving industry that draws inspiration from the nation’s rich cultural heritage, blending it seamlessly with modern innovation and sustainability practices. This fusion showcases traditional African elements like vibrant prints, intricate beadwork, and cultural symbols in a contemporary design context.
In recent years, Ghana’s fashion landscape has seen a surge in local artisans and designers who specialize in giving traditional kente and fugu garments a fresh and modern twist. At its heart, Ghanaian fashion embraces elements like the iconic Kente cloth, Adinkra symbols, and African prints, all while championing sustainable practices.
The Ghanaian fashion scene stands out for its diversity and relentless innovation. Brands and designers play a pivotal role not only in boosting the nation’s economy but also in safeguarding its cultural heritage and gaining international acclaim. They craft not just exquisite fashion pieces but also propel the industry towards positive change, promoting local artisans, and championing sustainability and ethical practices. To keep them close, ahead are Ghanaian fashion brands that are shaping the future of fashion with their significant impact.
Christie Brown
Aisha Ayensu established Christie Brown in 2008, making it one of Ghana’s pioneering fashion brands. Christie Brown is recognized for its fusion of African and Western fashion elements, creating elegant and distinctive pieces. The brand’s designs often incorporate vibrant prints, intricate embroidery, and innovative silhouettes.
Christie Brown’s commitment to promoting African culture and craftsmanship has propelled it to international acclaim, with its creations featured in numerous fashion publications and events worldwide.
Sima Brew
Instagram.com/sima_brew Sima Brew, founded by Sima Ibrahim in 2012, has become a prominent name in Ghana’s bridal and eveningwear fashion scene. This Ghanaian fashion brand is known for its opulent and sophisticated gowns, characterized by intricate beadwork, embroidery, and luxurious fabrics.
Sima Brew’s designs exude a sense of luxury and elegance, making it a sought-after choice for brides and individuals looking for high-end eveningwear. The brand’s attention to detail and craftsmanship are second to none in Ghana’s fashion industry.
Steve French
Launched in 2016, the eponymous Ghanaian fashion brand Steve French, originally hailing from Axim, Ghana, but is now headquartered in Accra. His childhood fascination with fashion, sparked at age seven while drawing iconic cartoon characters, fuels his commitment to fashion with a purpose.
French contemporary women’s wear designs honor tradition by blending artistic expressions with clothing, resulting in vibrant gowns and skirts adorned with abstract patterns. His latest collection, a collaboration with ‘For The Ancestors’, draws inspiration from his Axim upbringing, utilizing neoprene and abstract painting techniques to convey stories from his past onto tops, skirts, and dresses.
Amidst the tranquility of recent times, French finds inspiration in everyday life, from roadside vendors to the music that surrounds him, fostering a fresh perspective on fashion as he documents and reflects on his artistic journey.
PISTIS Ghana
Launched in 2013 by Kabutey Dzietror and Sumaiya Mohammed, PISTIS Ghana is a luxury Ghanaian fashion brand specializing in bridal and eveningwear. This brand stands out for its meticulous craftsmanship, attention to detail, and commitment to offering bespoke designs that epitomize luxury.
PISTIS Ghana has carved a niche in the market by creating intricate and opulent gowns that celebrate Ghanaian culture and craftsmanship. It has become a go-to choice for brides and individuals seeking sophisticated, one-of-a-kind pieces for special occasions.
Duaba Serwa
Duaba Serwa, founded by Ghanaian designer Duaba Serwaa in 2011, is celebrated for its contemporary African fashion pieces. The brand’s aesthetic often features vibrant prints, innovative silhouettes, and a fusion of tradition and modernity. Beyond creating stylish clothing, Duaba Serwa is dedicated to celebrating African culture through fashion and empowering women in the industry. Duaba Serwa’s designs have been showcased on both local and international runways, solidifying its reputation as one of the leading brands in the Ghanaian fashion scene.
Clatural
Stephanie Adu established Clatural in 2015 as a platform to express her artistic and unconventional take on fashion. This Ghanaian brand stands out for pushing the boundaries of traditional African fashion norms, encouraging self-expression, and challenging conventions through clothing. Clatural’s designs often feature experimental and avant-garde elements, attracting those who seek unique and bold fashion statements. Stephanie Adu’s innovative approach to fashion has garnered attention both in Ghana and beyond.
Atto Tetteh
Ghanaian designer Atto Tetteh, who ventured into the fashion scene in 2014, brings a fresh perspective to menswear in Accra. Despite studying insurance, he chose to pursue his passion and establish his menswear line in Accra. He believed in the need to enhance the menswear scene in Ghana, where women’s fashion dominated.
Atto Tetteh’s creations offer contemporary streetwear with a touch of African culture, blending traditional patterns into modern men’s fashion. His latest collection, “S Theorem,” celebrates diversity and unity, reflecting Ghana’s vibrant spirit with locally handmade fabrics like Fugu and kente. For Tetteh, fashion is not just about style but also about showcasing Ghana’s rich heritage and supporting local artisans, even in the face of challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Yartel
Yartel, founded by Nana Yaa Serwaah in 2009, is a dynamic and contemporary Ghanaian fashion brand that has gained recognition for its unique approach to fashion. The brand emphasizes sustainability and ethical fashion practices, often collaborating with local artisans and using eco-conscious design principles.
Yartel’s designs frequently feature avant-garde silhouettes, bold colors, and artistic prints, blending traditional African aesthetics with modern creativity. Nana Yaa Serwaah’s vision for Yartel is not only to create fashion but also to promote social and environmental responsibility within the industry, making it a standout brand in Ghana’s fashion landscape.
Hazza
Led by designer, Hassan Alfaziz Iddrisu, who hails from Kumasi but is now based in Accra. Hassan embarked on his fashion journey in 2013, initially dealing in secondhand vintage pieces from Accra’s Kantamanto market. His love for the rare and unique led him to deconstruct these vintage finds, birthing his original designs despite his initial lack of sewing and cutting skills.
As interest grew in his creations, Hazza, his ethically made unisex Ghanaian sportswear brand, emerged, blending African pride with traditional production methods. Hazza is known for its relaxed tailoring and repurposed fabrics, often featuring breezy suits and vibrant utilitarian shirts.
In his latest collection, Iddrisu combines elements from his recent spring Afrafradom collection and his university graduation collection. Sustainability lies at the heart of his work, sourcing discarded fabrics to transform into art. Iddrisu’s ongoing inspiration springs from the genuine culture and lifestyle of Ghana, particularly from the places often overlooked, such as the slums, which he believes hold the true essence of his homeland.
Lauren Haute Couture
Established in 2010 by Lauren Amoako, Lauren Haute Couture is a high-end Ghanaian fashion brand that specializes in couture fashion. The brand is known for its exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail, offering luxurious and tailor-made clothing for discerning clients.
Lauren Haute Couture caters to individuals seeking unique and custom-designed pieces, making it a preferred choice for those who appreciate fine tailoring and luxury in fashion. The brand stands as a testament to the dedication and craftsmanship within Ghana’s fashion landscape.
Chloe Asaam
Chloe Asaam, a budding designer from Accra, launched this eponymous brand in 2019. Growing up near Accra’s bustling secondhand market, Chloe witnessed the prevalence of fast fashion and its impact on young creatives. Her mission is to encourage sustainable fashion choices, demonstrating that a few thoughtfully designed pieces can offer numerous styling options over several years.
Chloe’s eco-conscious approach includes repurposing fabrics from these markets, particularly cotton, linens, and breathable materials. Her signature aesthetic blends Ghanaian prints with innovative silhouettes, elevating everyday staples like ruffled tops, high-waisted trousers, and dresses.
Her debut collection draws inspiration from the pandemic’s emotional journey, embracing muted earthy tones and loose silhouettes to evoke a sense of freedom. Chloe’s muse? The resilient woman in her family and community, whose strength often goes uncelebrated in a male-dominated society. She aims to honor their influence through her empowering designs.
Larry Jay
Founded by Lawrence Agyepong in 2010, Larry Jay is a Ghanaian fashion brand that caters to both men and women. The brand is known for its urban and contemporary fashion pieces, frequently incorporating vibrant colors and prints.
Larry Jay’s designs often feature African-inspired textiles, promoting a strong sense of African identity within its collections. The brand’s versatility and trendy designs have earned it a dedicated following among fashion-conscious individuals in Ghana and beyond.
Photo: Instagram.com/larryjayghana
