BEHIND THE STITCH: ALANI
June 21, 2024
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From stylish brogues to statement-making boots, KIING DAVIIDS offers a diverse range of footwear that caters to fashion-forward individuals. Their commitment to quality and innovation has not only captured the attention of local fashion enthusiasts but also attracted international acclaim.
KIING DAVIIDS is a Nigerian handcrafted shoe brand founded in 2013 by David Enyinnaya. With a commitment to creating unique and exquisite footwear, the brand has redefined African design, offering products that captivate both local and international audiences.
David Enyinnaya’s journey into shoemaking began serendipitously. After purchasing a pair of size 42 brogues that caught his eye—despite wearing a size 48—he sold them at a profit, realizing a potential career path. This experience led him to focus entirely on shoemaking, culminating in the establishment of KIING DAVIIDS.
The brand’s commitment to artistry and quality has attracted numerous Nigerian artists. Notably, musicians such as Ayra Starr, Falz, Victony, Cavemen, Asake, Joeboy, Mr Eazi, Oxlade, Wande Coal, Davido and Fireboy, creative director, actors including Timini, TG Omori and Enioluwa have been spotted wearing KIING DAVIIDS footwear, showcasing the brand’s appeal among Nigeria’s creative elite.
KIING DAVIIDS has significantly impacted the Nigerian fashion industry by elevating the standards of locally made footwear. The brand’s emphasis on unique designs and craftsmanship has challenged traditional perceptions, positioning Nigerian shoemaking on the global stage.
In addition to its influence through celebrity endorsements, KIING DAVIIDS has actively participated in fashion shows, further cementing its status in the industry. The brand’s presence at various fashion events has showcased its innovative designs to a broader audience, enhancing its reputation.
KIING DAVIIDS x Tokyo James SS17
In 2016, The Circle of Life campaign from King David’s collaboration with Tokyo James for the SS17 collection refined Afro-European fashion. The campaign, featured in FGUK Magazine for Europe and Refashion Africa for the African market, represented a fusion of luxury, cultural heritage, and contemporary design, solidifying King David’s role in shaping African fashion’s global narrative.
Emmy Kasbit x KIING DAVIIDS
The NOMADS collection, a collaboration between Kiing Daviids and Emmy Kasbit in 2017, exemplified contemporary African fashion with a sophisticated, nomadic-inspired aesthetic.
KIING DAVIIDS was also part of the “IN THE BLK” initiative in 2020, a collective designed to foster unity, economic empowerment, and independence for Black creatives in the global fashion industry. The post celebrates the premiere of a short film at Paris Fashion Week, created in collaboration with Equator Productions and directed by Ademola Falomo. With a foundation in politics, economics, and innovation, the project aimed to redefine Black excellence in fashion through storytelling and industry representation.
Collaboration has been a cornerstone of KIING DAVIIDS’ strategy. The brand has partnered with other Nigerian fashion labels, blending diverse design philosophies to create unique collections. These collaborations have enriched Nigeria’s fashion landscape, fostering a spirit of unity and creativity within the industry.
KIING DAVIIDS is making waves in the country’s fashion scene by addressing a gap in the market for locally made statement boots. In features by BellaNaija Style and Pulse Nigeria, he shared his motivation for launching a Nigerian footwear brand that caters to fashion-forward individuals seeking high-quality, homegrown alternatives to imported boots. His signature “Sanchos” boots have become a standout piece in Nigerian menswear, gaining popularity through strategic collaborations with established local designers like Emmy Kasbit and Tokyo James. By integrating his designs into high-profile fashion campaigns, KIING DAVIIDS has successfully built a loyal audience, proving that Nigeria’s fashion industry can compete on a global scale.
KIINGDAVIIDS announced their Autumn/Winter 2025 collection, titled “REFLECT”, which celebrates personal evolution and growth. The collection is inspired by life’s journey, blending soft, muted tones with bold silhouettes to symbolize resilience, strength, and transformation. The message encourages wearers to pause, reflect on their progress, and embrace both challenges and triumphs. The caption, “where you’ve been, where you are now – REFLECT,” reinforces this theme of introspection and self-appreciation. The AW collection was released on the 16th of March, 2025.
Through its dedication to quality, innovation, and collaboration, KIING DAVIIDS has become a symbol of excellence in Nigerian fashion. The brand’s journey from a single pair of brogues to a renowned shoemaking enterprise exemplifies the potential of Nigerian artisanship on the global stage.
