Boubou on the runway, International designers rocking the boubou design in their collection.
The boubou design, a timeless symbol of African heritage, has transcended centuries, from the regal attire of ancient African monarchs to the catwalks of today’s global fashion stage. But who are the visionary designers propelling this iconic fashion piece onto international and world-renowned fashion runways?
Awa Meite, a beacon of sustainability in the fashion world, is one such designer. Hailing from Mali, she crafts fashion and accessories from cotton and leather, showcasing the beauty of traditional weaving techniques and leather craftsmanship in a contemporary light. Her unwavering dedication to local transformation and production in Mali sets Awa Meite apart, breaking stereotypes and fostering equity for African Fashion designers.
Banke Kuku, who has also included the boubou design in her collection, draws inspiration from her cultural heritage to create bespoke patterns and textiles rich with colour and texture. What makes Banke Kuku’s designs unique is not just her dedication to creatively fusing West African and Western eclectic inspirations, but also her unwavering commitment to her craft, resulting in intricate and unique designs that are truly appreciated by fashion enthusiasts.
Based in the heart of Lagos, Nigeria, this brand stocks a range of luxury loungewear and lifestyle pieces. What sets this brand apart is its commitment to each piece telling a uniquely African story, adding depth and meaning to the fashion.
ATAFO, formerly Mai Atafo, is a multidisciplinary fashion brand that creates menswear, womenswear and bridal collections. He has also experimented with the boubou design in his collections. ATAFO’s commitment to quality and detail is evident in the exquisite, bespoke, tailored, and ready-to-wear pieces they create. This brand is known for its clean finish, impeccable fit, and painstaking attention to the minute details, assuring customers of their high standards.
Elie Kuame, an Ivorian-Lebanese who grew up in Belgium and Cote D’Ivoire grew up to explore femininity and fashion. In March of 2006, Elie won a contest for young creators, making it possible for him to present his first collection named ‘Women of Power’ which sought to magnify femininity with simple, clean lines, wildly sophisticated cuts, and embroidery details that are both delicious and dramatic at the same time. He has recently added the boubou design to his collection.
JZO Connect was established by Creative Directors Joseph O. Ike and Ola Akindeinde in 2014. Their style encapsulates affordable fashion with sustainability and attention to accessible and durable designs. They started the Nigerian-based Menswear Fashion Brand JZO to provide alternative fashion options for Nigerian men of all ages. The brand prides itself on its affordable pricing, excellent tailoring, and forward-thinking craftsmanship. As the brand has grown, JZO, which caters exclusively to men’s designs, including the male version of the boubou, has expanded to cater to specific needs while remaining a front-runner in the menswear apparel niche.
At African Gift Shop, we offer an eclectic and unique range of boubou designs and handcrafted gifts. These African-themed gifts are available at the African Gift Shop (www.myafricangiftshop.com), the home of handmade and unique gift items.
African Gift Shop is a black-owned business that stocks African-themed gifts, unique African gifts, and corporate gifts. For your African-inspired gifts and boubous, please visit us at www.myafricangiftshop.com to order your unique, bespoke and authentic gifts.
