#AFRICA’S TOP FIVE
Tiffany Amber
One of the biggest and well-known fashion labels in Africa, Tiffany Amber was launched by designer Folake Florin-Coker in 1998, with a vision to revolutionize the Nigerian Fashion Industry. She was the first African-based designer to be invited to showcase her creations two seasons in a row at New York Fashion Week. Her designs are a timeless and iconic fashion label known to mix eclectic elements in a palette of hues , that continues to stand out as a strong fashion philosophy. Folake won designer of the year at the 2009 African Fashion International in Johannesburg, Fashion Brand of the year at the ARISE Magazine Fashion Week 2011 for her AW 2011 Fearless collection.
Deola Sagoe
Deola Sagoe creates African fashion with a unique vision for the modern women and has been for more than two decades. She has gained international fame for her haute couture pieces being honored with numerous awards and accolades over the years. She has participated in major fashion shows alongside Donna Karan, Chanel, Ralph Lauren and Calvin Klein. Her designs have been worn by Naomi Campbell and Anika Nina Rose.
Lanre Da Silva-Ajayi
In 2005, an iconic 1940’s couture design label was launched as Lanre Da Silva (LDA), its a production of high class sophisticated clothing for elegant women combining traditional fabrics with optical prints. LDA has been favorited by many celebrities, top media houses and fashion lovers internationally. The label produces six major collections every year and has showcased both locally and internationally for shows including, ARISE, New York Couture Fashion Week and Mercedes Benz Fashion Week.
Jewel by Lisa
Jewel by Lisa, designed by Lisa Folawiyo started in 2005 with the use of ornate embellishments of Swarvoski crystals on African fabrics, changing the face of the fabric and turning the label into a a coveted luxury brand. Her designs have been worn by African and international celebrities including Solange Knowles, Angela Simmons, Lala Vasquez; and has been a magnet for international media news such as BBC, Essence Magazine, Marie Claire amongst others. Her deisgns have been showcased in ARISE and Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in New York.
Duro Olowu
Duro Olowu is well known for his use of mixed vintage prints, bright colors and well polished cuts. He is a Nigerian-born lawyer turned fashion designer that arrived in the London fashion scene in 2004. With the unique glam of his designs his styles has attracted the first lady, Michele Obama. Duro has won numerous awards, such as the 2005 “Designer of the Year” British Fashion Awards and has attracted other distinguished clients like Uma Thurman and Linda Evangelista.
OUR 6th SPECIAL HONORARY DESIGNER for Africa’s Top 5 Goes to Funlayo Deri…!!!
Born in Nigeria, Funmilayo Csilla Deri is a London/Budapest based fashion designer. Funlayo Deri pieces are luxurious and wearable. They celebrate the female form, emphasizing a woman’s curves while utilizing the most luxurious fabrics and the finest cuts and detailing.
Adiree Company is a media, marketing, and marketplace group reaching multicultural consumers. Every month, readers turn to content by Adiree — for impactful conversation, our marketing and it’s marketplace to engage with meaningful products. Focusing on everything from culture, lifestyle to careers, Adiree Company leverages the power of diversity and heritage to engage and empower. Adiree Company was founded in 2009 and is headquartered in New York City, with offices in Lagos Nigeria.