Africa Day 2025: Telling West African Narratives Through Style

In celebration of Africa Day 2025, fashion becomes the canvas on which identity, legacy, and cultural power are boldly displayed. This May, across cities and creative circles, African designers, artists, and cultural leaders are threading legacy with possibility , reminding the world that African creativity is not just vibrant, but vital.

Imane Ayissi (Cameroon)

Raised in a family of artists, Imane Ayissi began his creative journey as a dancer before turning to fashion. Having modeled for luxury houses like Dior and Valentino, Ayissi now helms a couture label that blends African textiles with French elegance. His designs ,including beautifully woven raffia transformed into bags , are your go-to for timeless sophistication and artistry.

Ugo Monye (Nigeria)

Regal, bold, and deeply rooted in tradition, Ugo Monye‘s pieces command attention. His designs speak confidently the kind of craftsmanship that transforms a groom into a king. Based in Lagos, the Ugo Monye brand fuses Nigerian heritage with sharp tailoring and modern silhouettes, making it one of the top destinations for luxury African menswear.

Kente Gentleman (Côte d’Ivoire)

Founded by Aristide Loua in Abidjan, Kente Gentleman reinvents traditional textiles through precisely tailored menswear. Each piece is handmade and pays homage to the artistry of West African weaving, while embracing contemporary elegance. It’s more than fashion, it’s a statement of identity.

Nao Serati (South Africa)

In Johannesburg, Neo Serati Mofammere is creating waves with Nao Serati, an athleisure brand known for fluid, unisex designs. Although Neo is soft-spoken, his work is anything but. His pieces ,sometimes gender-defying, always boundary-pushing ,reflect the fearless energy of South Africa’s youth. “With my first collection, I dressed and made up men in quite feminine poses, which I loved,” he says. “And I thought nothing of it.”

Tongoro (Senegal)

Founded by Sarah Diouf, Tongoro is a proudly Senegalese fashion label with global acclaim. The brand name inspired by a nickname given by her mother, meaning “star” , reflects the vision: to make African women feel radiant. Tongoro is known for bold prints, fluid cuts, and accessible luxury, all produced entirely in Africa.

LABRUM London (Sierra -Leone)

LABRUM London fuses West African heritage with British tailoring. Known for clean cuts and cultural depth, the brand tells untold stories through every piece , from football stadium runways to powerful collaborations with global names like Adidas and Guinness

Meji Meji (Nigeria)

The bold fashion brand Meji Meji is owned by Tolu Oye. It is known for its striking graphics, African-inspired silhouettes, and empowering shoots that feature traditional hairstyles, Meji Meji is more than style,it’s identity. With a distinct aesthetic you can recognize from afar, the brand continues to champion African creativity and the strength of African women.

In every thread, every cut, and every color choice, these designers are telling stories , of identity, resistance, elegance, and future. Africa Day 2025 is not just a celebration of heritage, but a reminder that African fashion is not emerging. It’s here ,rooted, thriving, and leading.