Many Western stores such as Forever 21 and H&M incorporate African prints into trendy items such as skinny jeans and biker jackets. But nothing quite matches the quality, look and feel of authentic clothing made from strong African fabrics and vibrant textiles. Thanks to e-commerce, you can buy them just about anywhere. Here are 12 ways to buy authentic African clothing online.
Ocacia
Ocacia.com is based in Durban, South Africa, but will ship all over the world. The company is willing to customize most pieces to the buyer’s preferences. The brand aims to carry South African heritage through its men’s and women’s clothing, with classic items like dashikis — loose, brightly colored shirts or tunics, originally from West Africa — made with contemporary materials.
Sika
Sika purchases all its fabrics from Ghanaian markets. According to the site, “Each unique piece defines an area in West Africa.” The company works with local Ghanaian tailors and seamstresses to make traditional items like batiks and wax prints, with a sophisticated twist.
Ethnic Supplies
Ethnic Supplies was created by Ugandan-born Ida Horner. Her company seeks to reduce poverty in her home country by sourcing handcrafted fashion items from Ugandan rural groups and materials from suppliers who employ Ugandans in need.
Zuvaa
Zuvaa.com is a vast online outlet where designers from all over the world (with many designers from Africa) can sell their African and African-inspired designs. You can search by designer, by price and by user rating. You’ll find a range from traditional cuts to modern takes on vintage pieces.
Grass Fields
Grass Fields is known for using the iconic African fabric ankara. The site is full of gorgeous blooming skirts made with the cloth. The company sources fabrics from Cameroon, Nigeria and Benin and prides itself on high quality pieces that last.
Ohema Ohene
Ohema Ohene sources most of its materials and designs from Ghana. The designer, Abenaa Pokuaa, mixes a sense of glamour with traditional Ghanaian looks. Previously based in U.K., the company now has a branch in Accra, Ghana.
Mayamiko
Mayamiko has its elegant printed tops made in Malawi workshops. Disadvantaged locals are trained as employees. The company tailors each piece for the buyer’s unique shape, size and style. The brand also makes batik and dip-dye cotton, made by a Ghanaian artist.
Dubaruba
Dubaruba is named for the Eritrean village of the same name. The company is a platform where designers from all over Africa can sell their handmade items. The company focuses on young talent, hoping to fuel their careers.
Edun
Edun is a rather upscale vendor that brings fashion taste makers from New York together with artists in Africa to create designer pieces. One such collaboration you can find on the company’s site is a horn-and-quartz cuff necklace made by Kenyan artist Penny Winter.
Dupsies
Dupsies works with designers in West Africa including Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal and Guinea, to create authentic African pieces. The website features dozens of categories including African lace fabrics, dashikis, Agbada attire and even African wedding clothes.
Simbacraftware.com
Simba Craftware imports one-of-a-kind pieces made from pure cotton from Kenya. More than a clothing store though, it’s a one-stop shop for everything Africa, such as African children’s clothing, safari boots, African instruments and even furniture. Simba Craftware’s clothing is high quality, selected from designers throughout Africa, and reasonably priced.
StewDiaw.com
StewDiaw.com is based in Accra, Ghana, but will deliver internationally. The company’s slogan is “connecting with our heritage.” Appropriately, you’ll find traditional Ghanaian styles like batik dresses, brocade skirts, and dashiki prints.