BEHIND THE STITCH: ALANI
June 21, 2024
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In the world of Nigerian fashion, the outfit might be the conversation—but the bag is always the exclamation point.
As the “Made in Nigeria” movement continues its global takeover, Nigerian made handbag brands are proving that you don’t need a European logo to carry world-class luxury.
From hand-beaded masterpieces to architectural leather structures, these are the 13 Nigerian made handbag brands you should have on your radar—and in your closet—this year.
The Vibe: Intentional, artisanal, and culturally grounded.
The Drip: Florentina Agu has expanded the Hertunba universe with the Akaọrụ̄ (Handwork) collection. Their bags are a love letter to indigenous craftsmanship, featuring intricate Nsibidi symbols and hand-threaded fringe.
Why buy: For the woman who wants her accessories to carry the weight of heritage and the sharpness of modern power-dressing.
The Vibe: Sophisticated, timeless, and socially conscious.
The Drip: A veteran in the space, Gbemisola Johnson’s O’Eclat is famous for blending premium leather with indigenous fabrics like Adire and Aso-Oke. Their “Amber” box bags and “Michelle” midis are masterclasses in clean, elegant construction.
Why buy: It’s the perfect “heritage-meets-contemporary” bag that transitions from a corporate boardroom to a Lagos wedding.
The Vibe: High-fashion, vibrant, and artistic.
The Drip: While she dominates clothing, Lisa Folawiyo’s double-beaded shoulder bags are the ultimate luxury flex. Each bag is a labor of love, featuring multi-colored hand-beading that catches the light like fine jewelry.
Why buy: When your bag needs to be the main character of your outfit.
The Vibe: Textural, soulful, and eco-friendly.
The Drip: Founded by Akudo Iheakanwa, Shekudo uses Aso-Oke and local leathers to create unique, circular, and geometric silhouettes. The brand is a favorite for those who value slow fashion and community-driven craftsmanship.
Why buy: It’s a masterclass in making traditional West African textiles look futuristic.
The Vibe: Elite, structured, and vintage-inspired.
The Drip: Femi Olayebi is often called the “Queen of Nigerian handbags.” Her pieces are treated like collector’s items, known for superior leather quality and hand-rolled handles.
Why buy: This is a “generational” bag—a piece you buy now and pass down to your daughter.
The Vibe: Viral, trendy, and high-octane.
The Drip: Outlash has mastered the “it-girl” aesthetic in Lagos. From the Zoya Flap Bag in metallic finishes to their compact Curt Purses, they are the go-to for trend-driven luxury.
Why buy: Essential for brunch dates and high-profile social events.
The Vibe: Raw, edgy, and sustainable luxury.
The Drip: Zainab Ashadu works with local tanneries in Northern Nigeria to source exotic skins and vegetable-tanned leathers. The bags have a “nomadic soul” feel with sharp, geometric edges.
Why buy: For the minimalist who prefers “quietly expensive” textures over loud logos.
The Vibe: Opulent, fluid, and colorful.
The Drip: Banke Kuku’s bags are an extension of her famous textile prints. Her tasselled pouches and silk bags are the ultimate vacation accessories, often seen on the arms of the global jet-set.
Why buy: To match your silk sets for that effortless “Monaco in Lagos” energy.
The Vibe: Functional, clean, and modern.
The Drip: Lore Designs focuses on the architecture of leather. Their goods are characterized by clean lines and sturdy construction, making them the ultimate work-to-evening companions.
Why buy: The “clean girl” aesthetic, perfected for the Lagos professional.
The Vibe: Handcrafted, bohemian, and textural.
The Drip: Their Artemis Bag is a standout—a delicately handcrafted macramé piece with a leather inner bag. It’s a unique intersection of traditional knotting and high-street style.
Why buy: For a tactile, artisanal look that stands out from standard leather goods.
The Vibe: Playful, nostalgic, and high-energy.
The Drip: Maria Champ creates artisanal beaded bags with trendy, contemporary silhouettes. Their “Gangan” and “Haddie Bubble” bags use traditional beading to create playful, high-energy accessories.
Why buy: To add a pop of color and a youthful edge to any outfit.
The Vibe: 1-of-1, hand-woven, and eco-conscious.
The Drip: Nuhneh is all about “crafting personality.” Their bags are hand-woven from 100% recycled yarn, ensuring no two pieces are identical.
Why buy: You want a truly unique piece that supports slow, sustainable fashion.
The Vibe: Edgy, experimental, and youthful.
The Drip: A favorite in the Alté scene, Wandeesan plays with unconventional shapes and bold hardware, appealing to the creative crowd looking to break away from traditional tropes.
Why buy: To complete your look for the next Gidi Fest or Homecoming event.
The rise of Nigerian made handbag brands isn’t a trend—it’s a reset.
Luxury is becoming more personal, more cultural, and more intentional. And right now, Lagos is at the center of that shift.
