TALES 2026, The African Lifestyle Experience by Bellafricana, returns to London this summer for its most immersive edition yet, expanding from 10 days to a month-long celebration of African creativity. Running from July 24 to August 23, 2026, the experience brings together 100+ African brands, inviting visitors to discover the people, processes and craftsmanship behind every piece.
The Secret Story: Experiencing African Creativity Differently
Under this year’s theme, The Secret Story, TALES 2026 explores a simple but powerful idea: while people often admire beautifully made products, they rarely get to experience the histories, decisions, challenges, and intentions that brought them to life.
Every product has something behind it that may not be immediately visible. There is the founder who took the risk to begin, the maker who developed the craft, the decisions that shaped a collection, and the experiences that influenced its creation. The Secret Story brings those often-unseen layers to the forefront.
Through curated experiences and founder conversations, this year’s edition creates space for these stories to be experienced, helping visitors connect not only with what African creative businesses make, but with the people and journeys behind them.
Taking place at TALES House London, Bellafricana’s African lifestyle experience and brand showcase space at 28 Cavendish Square, off Oxford Street, TALES 2026 will transform the venue into a month-long celebration of fashion, beauty, lifestyle, home and design from across Africa and its diaspora.
Building on the success of previous editions, which featured more than 70 African brands and created opportunities for sales, collaborations and long-term business growth, TALES continues to evolve beyond an annual showcase into a platform where connection, culture and commerce meet.
What to Expect at TALES 2026
Across the 30-day programme, visitors can expect a curated mix of African brands, conversations, experiences and activities designed to bring the ideas behind the products to life.
100+ curated African fashion, beauty, lifestyle, home and food brands from across Africa and the diaspora. Discover them here
The CUT, a live fashion and culture conversation with Afua Hagan and EMY Africa, exploring the ideas, trends and movements shaping African creativity today.
The Pause, a dedicated wellbeing experience in partnership with WorkSpa, offering moments of rest, reflection and meaningful connection throughout TALES.
The Five Senses of Africa, a curated journey through African fashion, beauty, food, fragrance, music and design, inviting visitors to experience the continent beyond what they see.
Founder Talks and Creative Conversations, bringing together entrepreneurs, industry experts and changemakers to share insights, stories and inspiration.
Interactive workshops, cultural experiences, networking events and family-friendly activities taking place throughout the month.
Exclusive product launches, live demonstrations and curated brand activations designed to help visitors discover, connect with and shop directly from African creative brands.
TALES 2026 – The Secret Story
The Stories Behind the Creativity
At the heart of The Secret Story is a closer look at the people behind African creativity.
Speaking on this year’s vision, Bukky Asehinde, Founder of Bellafricana, said:
“This year’s theme, The Secret Story, came from a simple but powerful thought: some of the most beautiful things people experience are often built on stories they never get to hear.
Behind every founder is courage. Behind every collection is a journey. Behind every product is intention.
TALES 2026 is an invitation to pause and experience African creativity differently, not just through what is visible, but through the stories, people and moments that made it possible. We want people to leave feeling like they discovered something meaningful, not just something beautiful.”
The theme reflects what TALES has always sought to create: an opportunity to move beyond simply seeing and buying products and instead understand the creativity, intention and human stories behind them.
Discover African Brands at TALES 2026
As interest in African brands continues to grow, TALES invites visitors to engage with the people and craftsmanship behind the work, fostering a deeper appreciation for every piece they discover.
From fashion and beauty to home, food and lifestyle, the 100+ brands participating in TALES 2026 represent the breadth of creative talent across Africa and its diaspora.
Whether attending to discover emerging brands, meet founders, shop intentionally, or simply experience something new, visitors are invited to explore the stories that make every piece more than just a product.
Visit TALES House London
TALES 2026 will take place at TALES House London, located at 28 Cavendish Square, off Oxford Street, London W1G 0DB.
Admission is free with registration required, allowing visitors to explore the month-long celebration, discover African creative businesses and experience the programme throughout the season.
Event Details
Theme:The Secret Story
Venue: TALES House London, 28 Cavendish Square, off Oxford Street, London W1G 0DB
TALES 2026 is built around the people behind African creativity: founders, designers, makers, entrepreneurs and creative businesses whose work continues to shape how African creativity is experienced around the world.
TALES 2026 Creatives
Partners
TALES 2026 is presented in collaboration with partners who share Bellafricana’s commitment to championing African creative businesses and expanding global opportunities for the continent’s entrepreneurs.
TALES House is the latest chapter in a vision that has been years in the making.
TALES House Launch, Oxford Street, London.
There are people who build businesses, and there are people who build movements.
For over a decade, Bukky Asehinde has dedicated her life’s work to ensuring that African creativity is not only celebrated but recognised as a powerful force on the global stage. As the founder of Bellafricana, she has created an ecosystem that equips African creative entrepreneurs with the visibility, community, and opportunities they need to thrive internationally.
What began as a simple desire to make authentic African products more accessible has grown into a thriving network of over 20,000 creatives across multiple countries, the launch of TALES (The African Lifestyle Experience), and now TALES House London, a permanent home for African creativity in one of the world’s most influential cities.
But for Bukky, this journey has never been about products alone. It has always been about people, stories, culture, and creating opportunities that outlive her.
In this conversation, Bukky shares the story behind TALES House, the lessons she’s learned building Bellafricana, and her bold vision for a future where every major city in the world has a place that celebrates the richness, innovation, and excellence of African creativity.
1. Every big vision has a beginning. Looking back, what journey led from Bellafricana and TALES to the creation of TALES House?
If I’m honest, I don’t think TALES House started this year. I think it started the day Bellafricana was born.
From the very beginning, my vision has always been to make African creativity globally accessible.
Bellafricana gave us the community.
Then came the marketplace.
In 2023, we launched our first London pop-up, which later became TALES. Watching people experience African creativity in person completely changed my thinking. Customers didn’t just want to buy products, they wanted to meet the founders, hear the stories and immerse themselves in the culture.
After every edition, people kept asking, “When are you opening again?”
That question stayed with me.
I realised African creativity deserved more than a seasonal moment. It deserved a permanent home.
That’s how TALES House was born.
2. TALES House is more than a physical space. What does it represent, and what gap was it created to fill for African creative brands?
TALES House represents possibility.
It’s a place where African creativity is seen, celebrated and experienced every day.
For years, many African brands have struggled to access international retail opportunities. They produce world-class products but often don’t have a physical presence in global cities.
TALES House changes that.
It’s where customers can discover remarkable African brands all year round, where founders can test new markets, where collaborations happen, where conversations begin and where opportunities are created.
It’s not simply a retail space.
Rather, it’s an ecosystem.
3. Why was London the right location, and what opportunities does that create for African brands?
London is one of the most multicultural cities in the world.
It’s a place where people are curious about culture, craftsmanship, and discoveries.
It also has a large African and diaspora community alongside international visitors from every part of the world.
For African brands, it creates opportunities to reach customers they may never have had access to back home.
It’s not just about selling products.
It’s about building global visibility, credibility and relationships.
4. Walk us through TALES House today. What can visitors, shoppers, and creative entrepreneurs expect when they step inside?
The first thing I hope people feel is warmth.
When you walk into TALES House, you’re walking into the home of African creativity.
You’ll discover beautiful fashion, beauty, art, homeware and lifestyle brands from across Africa.
You’ll meet founders.
Hear their stories.
Attend conversations and creative experiences.
Discover products you probably didn’t know existed.
Every corner has been intentionally curated to celebrate Africa’s creativity in a premium, welcoming way.
We want people to leave saying,
“I had no idea Africa had so much to offer.”
Discover African brands at TALES House
5. The residency programme is a key part of the space. What inspired it, who is it for, and what impact do you hope it will have on African creative entrepreneurs?
One thing I’ve learnt over the years is that meaningful growth takes time.
A weekend pop-up is wonderful, but sometimes brands need longer to understand a new market, build customer relationships and gather feedback.
It allows brands to become part of TALES House for an extended period, giving them the opportunity to build confidence, refine their products, understand customer behaviour and establish a presence in London without the enormous cost of opening their own store.
My hope is that it becomes a launchpad for brands ready to expand internationally.
6. Building TALES House has been a shared journey. When Bukky first shared the visionwith you, what was your immediate reaction, and what convinced you it was worth building?
Tobi Asehinde:
To be honest, my first reaction was, “This is a really big vision.”
Tobi Asehinde: Co-Founder, TALES House.
I’ve watched Bukky dream for years, and one thing I’ve learnt is that when she believes deeply in something, it’s usually because she’s responding to a real need she has seen over time.
We had already seen what TALES was doing. Every year, creatives would leave asking, “What’s next?” Customers wanted to know when we’d be back. Brands wanted more opportunities to connect with buyers. It became clear that one annual event, as impactful as it was, couldn’t fully meet that need.
The more we talked about it, the more TALES House made sense.
For me, it wasn’t just about opening another retail space. It was about creating infrastructure for African creativity. A place where brands could consistently be seen, discovered and grow internationally.
I’ve always believed that Africa has incredible talent. What has often been missing is access and platforms that position our creatives for long-term success.
TALES House is one step towards changing that.
What convinced me was seeing that this wasn’t simply Bukky’s dream, it was becoming the natural next chapter for Bellafricana. Every step over the last decade had been preparing us for this moment.
We’re still at the beginning, but I genuinely believe TALES House has the potential to become something much bigger than London. My hope is that one day, we’ll see spaces like this in major cities around the world, giving African creatives the visibility and opportunities they deserve.
7. Since the opening, what’s been the moment that made you stop and think, “This is exactly why we built it”?
There have been quite a few moments.
But one that stands out was watching someone walk into TALES House, completely by chance, discover African brands for the first time, and leave saying,
“I never knew Africa had products like this.”
That moment reminded me why this matters.
Sometimes people don’t reject African creativity because they don’t appreciate it.
They simply haven’t been exposed to it.
TALES House changes that.
8. As TALES 2026 approaches, how does TALES House strengthen the bigger vision you’re building, and what can people look forward to?
TALES House allows us to continue the conversation long after TALES ends.
Before now, TALES happened once a year; now the impact continues every day.
Brands can continue selling, customers can continue discovering, and partnerships continue growing.
By the time TALES arrives each year, we’re not starting from zero anymore. We’re building on momentum.
That’s incredibly exciting.
9. If someone discovers the space for the first time through this interview, what’s the one thing you hope they leave knowing about African creativity?
I hope they leave knowing that African creativity is not emerging.
It has always been here, and it has always been innovative.
It has always been beautiful; it simply deserves to be seen.
My dream is that one day, every major city in the world will have a place like TALES House, a destination where people can experience the very best of African fashion, beauty, art, food, and lifestyle.
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TALES House is more than a destination. It is a growing movement to make African creativity visible, accessible, and celebrated every day.
Whether you’re looking to discover exceptional African brands, explore residency opportunities, or experience the space for yourself, TALES House offers a place where creativity, culture and commerce come together.
Learn more about TALES House and upcoming experiences at TALES House London, and follow the journey on Instagram (@taleshouselondon) and TikTok (@taleshouselondon) for the latest stories, events and behind-the-scenes moments.
Every beautifully made product has a story. Sometimes it’s a craft refined over generations. Other times, it’s a bold idea, a personal journey, or a founder’s commitment to preserving culture through creativity.
At TALES 2026, those stories take centre stage.
From 24 July to 23 August 2026, Bellafricana brings together more than 100 African fashion, beauty, lifestyle, home and creative brands at TALES House London for its biggest edition yet. Guided by this year’s theme, The Secret Story, the experience invites visitors to look beyond the finished product and discover the people, purpose and craftsmanship behind every brand.
Whether you’re searching for African fashion brands redefining style, beauty brands rooted in African ingredients, handcrafted homeware or meaningful gifts, TALES 2026 offers an opportunity to discover remarkable creatives from across the continent and its diaspora, all in one place.
Explore the brands below and begin discovering the stories waiting to be told.
Fashion
African fashion continues to evolve in exciting ways, blending heritage, innovation and contemporary design. At TALES 2026, you’ll discover designers who are preserving traditional craftsmanship, embracing sustainability and creating collections that speak to today’s global audience. Whether you’re drawn to timeless tailoring, bold prints or handcrafted textiles, these brands showcase the richness and diversity of African fashion.
Ajibeke
Inspired by African heritage, Ajibeke designs timeless womenswear that blends traditional influences with modern elegance. Every collection reflects an appreciation for craftsmanship and effortless style.
Ashabi Fads
Ashabi Fads offers vibrant fashion pieces that celebrate individuality through bold colours, quality finishes and confident design.
Austine Mali
Rooted in sustainability, Austine Mali thoughtfully crafts fashion using locally sourced materials and responsible production methods without compromising on style.
Aviella RTW
Aviella RTW presents versatile ready-to-wear collections designed for women who appreciate effortless elegance and everyday sophistication.
AYABA
AYABA woman is a contemporary fashion house that combines Yoruba heritage with modern design. The brand creates limited collections with elevated silhouettes, hand-dyed textiles, refined tailoring and considered details for the modern woman.
Adetutu Adanma
Adetutu Adanma creates ready-to-wear and made-to-measure pieces using predominantly African prints. Its designs bring a simple, elegant and distinctly Afrocentric approach to fashion for women and children, with made-to-measure options for men.
Adorned Couture
Adorned Couture creates made-to-order occasion wear and bridal styles using premium fabrics and skilled tailoring. Its custom pieces are designed for weddings, black-tie events and other significant celebrations.
BIBIERE
BIBIERE creates refined wardrobe essentials that combine timeless style with versatility, making dressing well feel effortless.
Bloomberry NG
Designed with modern women in mind, Bloomberry NG offers stylish ready-to-wear pieces that balance comfort with contemporary fashion.
Budding Blue
Known for its handcrafted garments, Budding Blue combines handwoven Aso-Oke and hand-dyed Adire fabrics to create pieces that honour traditional textile artistry while embracing sustainable fashion.
Cladini
Cladini specialises in refined fashion designed for everyday wear, placing quality craftsmanship and timeless style at the heart of every collection.
D’Closet Fashion
D’Closet Fashion offers elegant clothing designed to help women express confidence through versatile and stylish wardrobe pieces.
Diakwu Cloth
Giving discarded textiles a second life, Diakwu Cloth transforms fabric waste into handwoven textiles using traditional Nigerian weaving techniques. The result is fashion that celebrates both sustainability and craftsmanship.
Dress Me
Dress Me is a contemporary womenswear brand founded by ThankGod Solomon, creating refined pieces built around confidence and personal style. Its collections combine timeless design, refined silhouettes and careful detailing to create clothing that extends beyond seasonal trends.
EBAHI Woman
EBAHI Woman creates elegant ready-to-wear collections defined by clean silhouettes, thoughtful tailoring and modern femininity.
Ebonimode
Blending textile innovation with artistic expression, Ebonimode develops original fabrics that turn everyday garments into wearable works of art.
Efata by Juba
Efata by Juba brings together Afropolitan influences and contemporary tailoring to create elegant fashion that celebrates culture, identity and individuality.
Elizabeth Divine
Drawing inspiration from traditional African textiles, Elizabeth Divine reimagines heritage fabrics through contemporary womenswear designed for today’s confident woman.
Fashion Edge
Fashion Edge offers versatile ready-to-wear pieces designed for women who value confidence, comfort and effortless style.
Freshy Ethnic Garments
Freshy Ethnic Garments creates unisex ready-to-wear pieces using traditional African textiles including Aso-Oke, Adire, Ankara and Akwete. Its collections translate these fabrics into contemporary clothing for both men and women.
GIA1 Fashion
GIA1 Fashion creates stylish clothing that reflects confidence, versatility and contemporary African design.
Gingham Doll
Playful yet sophisticated, Gingham Doll designs fashion that brings personality, charm and creativity into everyday dressing.
Good Girl Code
Recognised for its expressive prints and bold silhouettes, Good Girl Code encourages women to embrace confidence through distinctive fashion.
Honey Loom
Honey Loom produces thoughtfully crafted fashion inspired by African artistry, offering timeless pieces that celebrate quality and creativity.
House of Bubu
Known for its bold yet comfortable silhouettes, House of Bubu creates contemporary womenswear that blends effortless elegance with unmistakable African style.
H-87 Apparel
H-87 Apparel creates chic ready-to-wear pieces including kimonos, mix-and-match sets and modest native and contemporary styles. The brand focuses on versatile clothing for women seeking elegance in everyday dressing.
Ifemi Lifestyle
More than fashion, Ifemi Lifestyle embraces intentional living through thoughtfully designed pieces that celebrate confidence and individuality.
Irinre
Inspired by African heritage, Irinre combines traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design to create beautifully handcrafted fashion.
JaydaWoman
JaydaWoman designs elegant ready-to-wear pieces that celebrate modern femininity through versatile and sophisticated style.
JJ Label
Refined and versatile, JJ Label creates wardrobe staples that balance timeless elegance with everyday functionality.
KKASA
KKASA presents contemporary fashion that combines clean aesthetics with African craftsmanship to create versatile wardrobe essentials.
KYM Tokyo
Blending global influences with African creativity, KYM Tokyo delivers distinctive fashion with a modern perspective.
Mayen Couture
Mayen Couture creates elegant womenswear suitable for both memorable occasions and timeless everyday wardrobes.
Melia by Jade
Innovation sits at the heart of Melia by Jade, where multifunctional fashion is designed to adapt beautifully to different lifestyles and occasions.
Merki
Merki focuses on understated elegance, offering versatile fashion for women who appreciate simplicity and refined style.
Moelle Zavian
Known for its polished tailoring, Moelle Zavian designs sophisticated ready-to-wear collections that remain timeless beyond seasonal trends.
Mofari
Mofari offers contemporary fashion centred on quality craftsmanship, versatility and effortless style.
Nathanielles
Nathanielles creates thoughtfully designed fashion that encourages confidence while embracing individuality.
Nwadiuto Studio
Creativity and self-expression define Nwadiuto Studio’s approach to contemporary fashion, resulting in distinctive pieces for modern wardrobes.
Oyin Deka
Oyin Deka explores originality through fashion, producing distinctive designs that celebrate creativity and individuality.
Ometsey
Minimalist by design, Ometsey focuses on clean silhouettes, quality construction and timeless elegance.
ONRUWOMAN
ONRUWOMAN creates refined womenswear that combines contemporary tailoring with effortless sophistication.
Outspok’n Clothiers
Outspok’n Clothiers encourages individuality through confident, contemporary fashion designed for self-expression.
Rebirth Studio
Built around thoughtful design, Rebirth Studio combines creativity and sustainability to produce modern African fashion with lasting appeal.
Sassy by Etty
Bright colours and confident style define Sassy by Etty, offering fashion that encourages bold self-expression.
Scqueeze by Sheye Oladejo
Scqueeze by Sheye Oladejo blends artistic creativity with modern tailoring to create fashion that feels fresh, expressive and distinctive.
Simeogieme
Simeogieme transforms original artwork into wearable textiles, bringing together illustration, fashion and storytelling in every collection.
Stella Yedia
Stella Yedia creates elegant fashion that balances timeless style with contemporary African aesthetics.
Style Envie
Style Envie offers versatile wardrobe pieces designed to help women build timeless, effortlessly stylish collections.
Talensi
Talensi celebrates African craftsmanship through fashion that honours heritage while embracing contemporary design.
Teni and Ola RTW
Designed for women who value comfort without compromising elegance, Teni and Ola RTW creates versatile ready-to-wear collections for everyday living.
Tye Fusión
Crafted in Ghana, Tye Fusión reinterprets traditional tie-dye through a contemporary lens. Its limited-quantity garments explore culture, identity and self-expression through colour, pattern and African craftsmanship.
Unknown Brand
Unknown Brand creates versatile wardrobe pieces in linen, Adire, Aso-Oke and denim. Its collection includes pants, tops, dresses, skirts and denim, combining vibrant design with classic silhouettes made for long-term wear.
Urban Luxe
Urban Luxe is a Ghanaian fashion and lifestyle brand combining contemporary design, rich prints and fluid silhouettes. From statement dresses to relaxed separates, the brand offers modern African style with an emphasis on comfort, confidence and understated luxury.
Vibing With Hajjo (VWH Apparel)
Vibing With Hajjo embraces creativity and individuality through expressive fashion inspired by contemporary African culture.
Vogue Woman
Vogue Woman offers stylish ready-to-wear collections that combine timeless fashion with everyday confidence.
Yaaaej
Yaaaej presents contemporary fashion that blends creativity with understated elegance.
X-Flair
X-Flair is a contemporary Nigerian womenswear brand creating elegant ready-to-wear pieces with timeless silhouettes and vibrant fabrics. Its designs are made for women who want a polished look without sacrificing ease or individuality.
Zack Aminu
Inspired by African heritage, Zack Aminu reinterprets traditional craftsmanship through fashion designed for modern wardrobes.
ZIIBAAH Global
ZIIBAAH Global celebrates African creativity through thoughtfully designed fashion that values culture, quality and craftsmanship.
Beauty & Wellness
African beauty is rooted in generations of knowledge while continuing to evolve through innovation. From skincare and textured haircare to fragrance and wellness, these brands reflect the growing influence of African beauty businesses that are creating products with purpose, quality and care.
BixiePots
BixiePots creates naturally sourced body care products including whipped shea butters, fragranced body oils and sugar scrubs. The range combines a luxurious sensory experience with products designed for everyday body care.
Bodea Beauty
Bodea Beauty develops skincare products that support healthy, radiant skin through thoughtful formulations designed for everyday care.
Deezmundu
Focused on everyday wellness, Deezmundu offers products that encourage healthier lifestyles while making self-care a consistent habit.
Mac Bancy Perfumery
Mac Bancy Perfumery crafts distinctive fragrances that capture personality, emotion and lasting memories through carefully blended scents.
Ori Lifestyle
Known for its science-backed approach to textured haircare, Ori Lifestyle develops products inspired by African ingredients to help people build healthier hair routines with confidence.
Toke Cosmetics
Toke Cosmetics offers beauty products designed to enhance natural features while encouraging confidence, creativity and self-expression.
Zoevette Botanicals
Zoevette Botanicals is a London-based organic food and lifestyle brand creating functional herbal teas and natural wellness products inspired by Africa’s botanical heritage. Its products connect traditional West African botanicals with contemporary approaches to mindful living.
Home & Lifestyle
A home can tell a story just as powerfully as fashion. Whether through fragrance, décor or functional design, these brands bring warmth, character and African creativity into everyday living.
Aduwham
Inspired by African heritage and storytelling, Aduwham creates luxury candles and home fragrances that transform everyday spaces into memorable experiences.
Isibha Home
Isibha Home offers thoughtfully crafted home décor that blends contemporary living with the richness of African craftsmanship.
TDP Home
Combining functionality with style, TDP Home designs lifestyle pieces that make everyday living both beautiful and practical.
Accessories & Jewellery
The finishing touches often make the strongest impression. These brands use jewellery and accessories to celebrate craftsmanship, identity and personal style.
Abikeiyaileke
Founded by a mother-and-daughter duo, Abikeiyaileke creates handcrafted jewellery rooted in African adornment traditions. Its pieces combine coral beads, sterling silver, 18K gold-plated accessories, wirework and detailed bead arrangements to reinterpret heritage for contemporary wear.
Afribix
Afribix offers handcrafted accessories inspired by African creativity, bringing culture and craftsmanship into everyday style.
Ailakoko
Ailakoko is a contemporary artisanal design house creating collectible objects across wearable art, fashion accessories, home décor and stationery. Working with materials including resin, reclaimed materials and glass, the studio creates limited-edition pieces that combine artistic expression with function.
Cece Finery
Founded in London by Cameroonian designer Cecile Essono, Cece Finery creates handmade bags and jewellery inspired by African culture. The brand combines contemporary design with sustainable African making methods for accessories suited to modern city living.
GEM BAR
GEM BAR offers a custom jewellery experience where customers select from curated charms, gems and chains to create personalised pieces on the spot. The interactive experience turns each piece into a personal accessory and keepsake.
Kisara
Kisara creates elegant jewellery designed for those who appreciate timeless craftsmanship and refined simplicity.
Ogbegems
Specialising in handcrafted jewellery, Ogbegems creates distinctive pieces that celebrate individuality and everyday elegance.
ORA
ORA designs contemporary accessories that combine clean aesthetics with African-inspired creativity for effortless styling.
Tóté London
Founded by Nigerian-born, UK-based designer Bola Obileye, Tóté London is an independent art-fusion fashion and accessories brand known for artisanal craftsmanship and bold colour-blocking. Its collection includes statement handbags and designer eyewear collaborations.
Tunture
Tunture transforms Nigeria’s “Okrika” denim waste into premium accessories. The brand combines this circular approach to fashion with Digital Product Passports and green jobs for women, linking Nigerian craftsmanship with new approaches to sustainable production.
Upper Klass Jewelry
Upper Klass Jewelry presents statement jewellery that blends sophistication, quality craftsmanship and modern design.
Footwear
Ezigboleda
Ezigboleda is a Nigerian leather footwear brand creating colourful and comfortable designs inspired by African culture. Its footwear combines contemporary styling with traditional Aso-Oke craftsmanship.
Art & Creative Expression
Art has a unique way of preserving stories, sparking conversations and celebrating identity. These creatives use their chosen mediums to offer fresh perspectives on African culture and creativity.
Illustrations by Chi
Through expressive illustration, Illustrations by Chi tells visual stories that celebrate African experiences, identity and imagination.
Oyinloluwa
Using Ankara fabric as her canvas, Oyinloluwa transforms textiles into striking works of art that celebrate culture, storytelling and creative expression.
Food & Beverage
Food brings people together, carries tradition across generations and creates lasting memories. These brands invite visitors to experience African flavours through products crafted with passion and purpose.
BEKIRI
BEKIRI is a luxury African fusion hospitality brand combining classical French pastry techniques with pan-African ingredients and heritage. Its handcrafted patisserie incorporates botanicals such as moringa, hibiscus, Kenyan black tea and rooibos, bringing African flavours into refined French forms.
Happy Coffee
Happy Coffee showcases the richness of African-grown coffee, offering carefully sourced products that celebrate quality, flavour and origin.
Matcha By Tesh
Matcha by Tesh offers ceremonial matcha for calm energy and everyday wellbeing, alongside recipes, wellness offerings and pop-up experiences.
Meliza’s
Meliza’s is a UK-based food brand producing the UK’s first plantain pasta. Its range includes Meliza’s Original™, made from unripe plantain, and Meliza’s Gold™, made from ripe plantain.
Naija Treats
Naija Treats is a UK-based food brand specialising in handmade Nigerian sweet and savoury treats. Its range includes chin-chin, coconut candy, dakuwa and kokoro, made without preservatives and packed to preserve freshness.
TITÓ
TITÓ creates memorable food experiences inspired by bold flavours, creativity and the joy of sharing good food with others.
Kids
Imani Kids
Imani Kids creates thoughtfully designed products for children, combining creativity, quality and functionality to support everyday childhood moments.
Experience The Secret Story at TALES 2026
Every brand featured at TALES 2026 has a story worth discovering. Together, they represent the innovation, creativity and entrepreneurial spirit shaping Africa’s fashion, beauty, lifestyle and creative industries today.
From 24 July to 23 August 2026, visit TALES House London and meet the founders, explore their collections and experience the stories behind every piece.
Whether you’re looking to shop intentionally, discover emerging African brands or simply enjoy a unique cultural experience, TALES 2026 offers something for everyone.
Admission is free, but registration is required.
We look forward to welcoming you to TALES House London, 28 Cavendish Square, London W1G 0DB, for a month-long celebration of African creativity.
Ìrìnrẹ̀ means “your journey” in Yoruba. Not a tagline borrowed for effect, the actual name of the brand. Bisola chose it because every single piece carries the belief that no two paths look the same. This summer, that journey makes a stop in London, at Irinre’s showcase at TALES 2026.
Irinre brings handcrafted adire to TALES 2026, London
Meet Bisola Bamkole, the Founder Behind Irinre
Bisola Bamkole is the founder of Ìrìnrẹ̀, a Nigeria-based brand working at the intersection of heritage, craftsmanship, and storytelling. In particular, she creates handcrafted adire textiles and evolving ready-to-wear pieces, translating culture, identity, and personal journeys into wearable art.
The brand began with something quieter than ambition. “Ìrìnrẹ̀ emerged from a quiet but persistent desire to preserve something deeply cultural while reimagining it for a global audience,” Bisola says. “Specifically, I was drawn to the poetic nature of adire. The way patterns are not merely decorative, but symbolic.”
Bisola Bamkole – Founder, Irinre
The Story Behind the Name
Here’s what most people don’t know about Ìrìnrẹ̀: every piece, in fact, starts as a story, long before it becomes fabric.
“Every piece is rooted in the belief that no two paths are the same,” Bisola explains. Each design begins as a story, sometimes inspired by lived experiences, both direct and indirect, long before it becomes fabric. “In this way,” she says, “every garment reflects memory and the lessons gathered along the way.”
The brand describes its own fabric in language that reads more like poetry than marketing copy. Every thread holds memory. Patterns whisper. Symbols guide. Not just cloth. A return. A becoming.
As a result, that’s not language Bisola reaches for lightly. It’s the actual philosophy the brand is built on.
Every Irinre pattern carries meaning, not just decoration.
What Shapes an Irinre Piece
Bisola draws from a wide well: African and Nigerian history, everyday human experience, movement, spirituality, the idea of transition. Above all, she’s drawn to journeys, emotional, cultural, physical, and the patterns, textures, and silhouettes she creates are her way of expressing those shifts.
Skilled artisans, many of them women, make the fabrics using traditional techniques: tie-dye, hand-stitching, starch resist, batik. Then, they carry these methods forward across generations and adapt them to speak to something contemporary.
What Bisola wants someone to feel when they wear Ìrìnrẹ̀ isn’t loud. “A sense of intimacy. A quiet power,” she says. “I want the wearer to feel as though they are stepping into something intentional. Something that resonates beyond the surface.”
What’s Coming to TALES 2026
Irinre is bringing a curated storytelling experience to TALES. Not standalone pieces, but garments that belong to a larger narrative. Visitors will find exclusive, limited-edition creations they won’t see anywhere else. Alongside them, an immersive presentation built to help visitors understand the story behind each piece, not just look at it.
For Bisola, what showing at TALES actually means runs deeper than visibility. “Showcasing at TALES is an opportunity to share Ìrìnrẹ̀ in its truest form, with intention, depth, and context,” she says. “It is less about visibility and more about resonance.” A space, she explains, that understands the language of intention, craftsmanship, and artistry.
Irinre at TALES House, London: July 24 – August 23
Why You Should Experience Irinre at TALES 2026
Bisola is direct about what makes this brand different. “Ìrìnrẹ̀ offers something increasingly rare: fashion that asks you to feel, reflect, and connect,” she says. “It is not simply about what is worn, but what is carried within it.” Ultimately, to experience the brand is to step into a story. One that lingers long after the moment has passed.
This is not fashion you scroll past. Instead, it’s fashion that asks something of you first.
Register for TALES 2026 at tales.bellafricana.uk and follow Irinre on Instagram for previews of what’s coming to London.
You know that thing that happens when someone stops you mid-stride, mid-conversation, mid-anything, just to ask “where did you get that”? That’s not a compliment. That’s a brand being born and the wearer doesn’t even know it yet.
That’s exactly how Style Envie started, and it’s exactly the energy you can expect from Style Envie at TALES 2026 this summer in London.
Meet Kasie Udeichi & The Story Behind Style Envie
Kasie Udeichi is the founder of Style Envie, a ready-to-wear house built for the kind of woman who wants her clothes to do some of the talking for her. Modern. The kind of pieces you can build a whole personality around.
But before any of that had a name, it was just Kasie, designing outfits for herself for special occasions because off-the-rack never quite felt like hers.
“I’ve always loved fashion and expressing myself through style,” she says. “I wanted to create pieces that make women feel confident, elegant, and effortlessly put together, without breaking a bank.”
“Style Envie was born from a very personal place,” she explains. “Before launching the brand, I often designed outfits for myself for special occasions because I wanted pieces that felt unique and reflected my personal style. Whenever I wore them, people would stop me to ask where I got them from.”
Picture the scene. An event. An outfit nobody else in the room is wearing. Someone leans over and asks the question. Then someone else does. Then it happens again at the next event, and the one after that.
That’s not a coincidence. That’s a pattern. And patterns are how brands get born.
“What started as a desire to create beautiful pieces for myself quickly evolved into a brand,” she says, “after realizing there were many women looking for the same balance.”
That’s the whole brand, really. Built from a wardrobe that worked, then shared with everyone who asked.
Kasie Udeichi – Founder, Style Envie
What Style Envie Is Really About
Style Envie isn’t chasing trends, and it says so plainly. As the brand puts it, trends come and go, but true style is and should be enduring.
Kasie designs for the modern woman. Her lifestyle, her confidence, her quiet refusal to disappear into the crowd. “Our ability to blend simplicity with bold femininity,” she says, “pieces that are timeless but still make a statement,” is what sets the brand apart globally.
It’s a careful balance. Not loud for the sake of being loud. Not quiet to the point of forgettable. Just exactly enough of both.
“I want her to feel seen, celebrated, and comfortable in her own individuality,” Kasie says of the women who wear Style Envie. Confidence first. Elegance close behind. Everything else follows.
Style Envie: Confidence, Elegance & Comfort
What’s Coming From Style Envie at TALES 2026
Now here’s where it gets exciting for anyone planning to be in that room.
Style Envie recently launched a new collection, but TALES 2026 is getting something even rarer: exclusive previews and brand-new pieces that haven’t been unveiled to the public anywhere else.
“Visitors will have exclusive first access to unreleased Style Envie Summer 2026 designs before anyone else,” Kasie says. That’s not marketing language. That’s a literal first look, in one room, before the rest of the world sees a single piece.
For Kasie, TALES is bigger than the showcase itself. “TALES represents an exciting opportunity to connect with our international community and bring the Style Envie experience directly to our customers abroad,” she explains. It’s a chance to finally meet, in person, the women who’ve only known the brand from a distance.
Why You Shouldn’t Skip Style Envie at TALES 2026
If you’ve ever been the person someone stopped to ask, “Where did you get that?” you already understand the appeal of Style Envie. If you’ve ever been the one asking, even better, because Style Envie at TALES 2026 is your chance to get the answer first.
“It’s an opportunity to experience the craftsmanship, quality, and femininity that define our brand,” Kasie says, “while discovering pieces designed to make every woman feel confident, elegant, and unforgettable.”
Unreleased pieces. One room. London, this summer.
Shop Style Envie at TALES 2026: July 25 – 26 & August 08
Some fashion brands start with a sketch. Austine Mali started with a question: how do you let your own culture live in the present without losing its soul? That question is exactly what’s coming to Austine Mali at TALES 2026 this summer in London.
Austine Mali’s Afro-Western aesthetic.
Meet Uche Onyemali, the Creative Director Behind Austine Mali
Uche Onyemali is a Nigerian software engineer based in the UK, and the Creative Director of Austine Mali. Two worlds that don’t usually share a sentence, but somehow they share his week.
“I love the balance of building software and designing clothes that honor my heritage,” he says. “For me, fashion is a celebration of identity, and I’m passionate about creating pieces that help every wearer feel like their truest self.”
It’s an unusual path into fashion, but maybe that’s exactly why Austine Mali doesn’t look like anything else on the rack. A precise mind, applied to something that’s supposed to feel free.
Uche Onyemali – Founder, Austine Mali
Bridging Two Continents Through What You Wear
The idea behind Austine Mali is simple to say and hard to actually pull off: let African heritage sit right alongside high-street and luxury fashion, not as a separate category, but as part of the same wardrobe.
“My vision for Austine Mali is to let African heritage sit right alongside those classic pieces,” Uche explains, “sometimes complementing them, sometimes standing out as something entirely new. I love the idea of two continents coming together through what we wear.”
That’s the whole philosophy, really. Not African fashion as a niche. African fashion as part of the room.
The brand works in textiles with real weight behind them — Adire, Aso Oke, Akwete — woven into contemporary silhouettes that wouldn’t feel out of place on a London high street or a Lagos runway. Sustainability sits underneath all of it, not as a label but as the actual method. Slow fashion, ethical production, low impact. Not a trend Austine Mali is chasing, but the way the brand has chosen to work since the beginning.
A contemporary look rooted in African heritage.
The Collection Made From What Was Almost Thrown Away
Here’s the part of the Austine Mali story that says more about the brand than any tagline could.
Somewhere along the way, someone looked at a pile of leftover fabric and off-cuts, the scraps every fashion house ends up with, and decided they deserved better than the bin. That decision became the One of One collection.
Each piece is built entirely from those leftover materials. Not a design choice made for effect, but a direct result of refusing to waste what was already there. Because of that, no two pieces in the collection are ever exactly alike. Whoever wears one is wearing something that, quite literally, doesn’t exist anywhere else.
It’s a small thing and a big thing at the same time. Small, because it’s just fabric that would have otherwise gone unused. Big, because it turns every single piece into proof that nothing about Austine Mali is accidental.
What to Expect From Austine Mali at TALES 2026
Ask Uche what’s coming to TALES and you’ll get a smile more than an answer. “Curiosity killed the cat,” he says, when asked about exclusive pieces.
What he will say is this: TALES is about community. And he’s blunt about why people should come find Austine Mali in that room. “Their wardrobe needs Austine Mali to make it complete,” he says.
That confidence comes from a brand that’s grown from small beginnings into a real voice in Afro-Western fashion, without losing sight of what it’s actually for. Storytelling through clothes. Creativity that empowers. Fashion that carries integrity all the way through, from the fabric sourcing to the final stitch.
Shop Austine Mali at TALES 2026: July 24 -25
Why You Shouldn’t Miss Austine Mali at TALES 2026
When you wear Austine Mali, the brand wants you to feel something specific. “Royalty, African heritage, expert craftsmanship,” Uche says, describing exactly what he wants people to feel when they experience the brand.
That’s not a small ask, and it’s exactly why this is worth seeing in person, not scrolling past on a feed. The print mixing, the texture of real Adire and Aso Oke, the quiet fact that the piece in your hands might be the only one of its kind in the world — that’s something you feel standing in the room, not from a product photo.
Register for TALES 2026 attales.bellafricana.uk and follow Austine Mali on Instagram for previews of what’s coming to London.
Ebonimode wants you to feel one word above all others: seen. That’s the brand’s answer when asked what a woman should feel in one of its pieces, and it’s exactly the experience waiting at Ebonimode’s showcase at TALES 2026 in London this summer.
Founder Bisola Alaka built the brand from a frustration. African fashion wasn’t taking up the global space it deserved, and she wanted to change that.
Meet Bisola Alaka, the Woman Behind Ebonimode
Bisola Alaka is Nigerian, and the founder and creative director of Ebonimode, a contemporary womenswear brand built around craftsmanship, culture, and elevated femininity.
“It came from a feeling,” she says, of starting the brand. “You know, this quiet frustration of not seeing African fashion occupy the space it deserves on a global scale. I wanted to be part of changing that.”
She describes the brand’s mission plainly. Take what’s deeply familiar, the textiles, the techniques, the stories, and present them in a way that feels refined and current. “Not a costume, not a trend,” she says. “Something timeless. Something a woman reaches for because it simply feels right on her body and true to who she is.”
Bisola Alaka – Founder, Ebonimode
The Part Nobody Sees
Here’s what most people don’t know about an Ebonimode piece: by the time it reaches a hanger, it’s already been through a process most fashion brands skip entirely.
“People see the finished garment, but they rarely see where it starts,” Bisola explains. “Every fabric we use is custom-made. We design the fabrics from scratch, before a single pattern is cut.”
The techniques, hand-dyeing, fabric combination, embroidery, and embellishment aren’t production choices made for effect. They’re things Bisola was drawn to long before the brand had a name.
“In a lot of ways, Ebonimode has always been less about building a business and more about following something that already lived in me,” she says. “The brand just gave it a home.”
That’s not a tagline. That’s the entire reason this brand exists.
Ebonimode: Hand-dyed African fabric
What Shapes an Ebonimode Piece
Ask Bisola what inspires her work, and the answer isn’t trend reports or runway moments. It’s contrast.
“Old and new. Structure and softness. The ornate and the understated,” she says. She’s drawn to the quiet details, texture, the way light falls on fabric, the posture of a woman who has nothing to prove.
Nigerian textile traditions like adire run through the brand’s work, alongside architecture, art, nature, and the way ordinary women move through the world with an elegance they don’t even notice in themselves.
The goal, when a woman puts on an Ebonimode piece, is simple. “Seen,” Bisola says. “That’s the simplest way I can put it. Feeling like it was made with her specifically in mind. Not loud, not trying too hard. Just that quiet confidence that comes from wearing something that genuinely fits who you are.”
What’s Coming to TALES 2026
Ebonimode is bringing exclusive, limited-edition pieces to TALES, crafted from fluid fabrics that carry African history and heritage. “Each piece is designed to move, to tell a story, and to embody culture in motion,” Bisola says. “These are pure art, not just clothing.”
The brand is also curating something beyond the garments themselves: an immersive experience that lets visitors connect with the craftsmanship behind each piece, not just the finished product.
For Bisola, showing at TALES carries real weight. “It’s an opportunity to share our story on a global platform, celebrate African creativity, and engage with the Bellafricana community,” she says. It’s also a chance for meaningful connection. Other creatives, industry leaders, and the people shaping where fashion goes next.
Shop Ebonimode at TALES 2026: July 24 – 26
Why You Need to See Ebonimode at TALES 2026 in Person
There’s a reason Bisola is adamant about this one: you cannot fully understand this work through a screen.
“The fabric textures, the finishes, the details, and storytelling. They ask to be touched,” she says. “If you care about craft, if you’re drawn to fashion that has something to say, come and stand in front of the pieces. Let them speak to you directly. That’s the only way to really get it.”
Register for TALES 2026 at tales.bellafricana.uk and follow @Ebonimode on Instagram for previews of what’s coming to London.
Deezmundu at TALES 2026 is where African wellness, memory, and ritual come together in scent form.
Before you see it, you’ll smell it.
That’s the thing about Deezmundu. It doesn’t announce itself the way fashion does with colour and silhouette and a look that stops you mid-step. Instead, it works differently. It reaches you through something older, something the brain processes before the eyes do. A scent. A memory. A feeling that something familiar is happening, even if you can’t quite name it yet.
That’s the point. That’s always been the point.
Wura: one of Deezmundu’s handcrafted perfume oils, made for longevity.
Meet Hadiza, the Woman Behind Deezmundu
Hadiza is Nigerian, a trained psychotherapist, interior designer, and someone who has worked in the financial sector. She is also the founder of Deezmundu at TALES 2026, one of the most distinctive wellness brands showing this summer.
That background is not incidental. In fact, it is exactly why Deezmundu exists.
“My background is in psychology, trained in psychotherapy, interior design, and I worked in the financial sector — so I understand both people and business deeply,” she says.
Across all those fields, she noticed the same gap. People were being sold products that addressed the surface, while the deeper need to feel grounded and connected to self was left unmet.
As a result, Deezmundu became her answer to that gap.
Hadiza, founder of Deezmundu.
The Brand That Grew Up in Ancient Ingredients
Growing up, Hadiza was surrounded by African beauty rituals — turmeric, baobab, cloves, shea. These were not trends. They were part of everyday life.
“I grew up surrounded by African beauty rituals and natural ingredients that weren’t just about looking good, but about identity, wellness, and community,” she explains.
Later, she realized modern products often miss that deeper connection.
So she built it back.
Deezmundu is a traditional African wellness brand. That word is intentional. Traditional does not mean old-fashioned. Instead, it means rooted in memory, rhythm, and lived knowledge.
Each perfume oil, incense, and body care product carries that philosophy forward.
“Each creation carries memory, identity, and the rhythm of tradition,” she says, “turning everyday care into timeless ceremony.”
Every Deezmundu product is handmade using ingredients rooted in African tradition.
The Secret Most People Don’t Know About Deezmundu
Here’s something most people don’t realise.
Deezmundu is not just about fragrance.
“It is about memory,” Hadiza reveals. “Every oil, incense, and body care product carries whispers of African rituals passed down through generations.”
That is why the experience stays with people. Not just because of scent, but because scent is tied directly to memory.
As a result, when people use Deezmundu, they don’t just smell good. They feel unforgettable.
That is the philosophy behind everything the brand creates.
Bada, Siyu, Ayaan Oud, Faruk: each oil carries a name, a story, and a scent worth remembering.
What TALES 2026 Visitors Can Expect From Deezmundu
At TALES 2026, Deezmundu will present three limited-edition creations: perfume oils, body butters, and scrubs.
These pieces will be available at TALES 2026, making them true collector’s items.
Each product is handmade, sustainable, and designed for longevity. More importantly, each one blends African heritage with modern luxury in a way that feels intentional rather than decorative.
For Hadiza, this moment is significant.
“Showcasing at TALES 2026 is about placing African craftsmanship on the global luxury stage,” she says. “It is proof that heritage, sustainability, and longevity can stand alongside the finest brands in the world.”
IPARA body butter: Smell enticing every minute of the day.
Why You Need to Experience Deezmundu at TALES 2026
You cannot fully experience Deezmundu at TALES 2026 through a screen.
Instead, it asks for presence.
A perfume oil needs to meet your skin. Incense needs to fill a space. These are not products for quick consumption. They are experiences that unfold slowly.
This is where it gets real.
Deezmundu will be at TALES House, 28 Cavendish Square, off Oxford Street, London W1G 0DB, from July 31 to August 1, and August 9 2026, open daily from 11 AM to 8 PM.
Once the moment passes, it will not repeat itself in the same way.
Come ready to feel something.
Deezmundu at TALES House, London: Jul 31, Aug 1 and Aug 9.
Outspok’n at TALES London is a celebration of twenty years of tailoring, purpose and style.
Some brands are built from vision boards and business plans.
Outspok’n was built from necessity.
Twenty years later, it has become one of the most compelling menswear brands coming to TALES London this summer.
Based in Lagos, Nigeria, Outspok’n bridges the gap between traditional African fabrics and contemporary design. The pieces are bold, clean, and created for people who understand that what you wear often speaks before you do.
As the brand puts it:
“Fashion is more than what you wear. It’s how you speak without words.”
Outspok’n menswear at TALES London showcasing modern African tailoring
Who Is Behind Outspok’n?
Outspok’n is led by Adesola Balogun, a Lagos-based fashion entrepreneur, business consultant, podcaster, and author.
But before any of those titles, he was a student trying to find a way to stay in school.
“Outspok’n was birthed in 2005,” Adesola explains. “At the time, it was necessary for me to start a business where I could earn an income and support myself through school because my parents were going through some financial difficulties.”
And that is the real origin story of Outspok’n.
Not a fashion week breakthrough. Not a carefully planned business launch.
Just a young man with a challenge to solve and a sharp eye for opportunity.
Adesola Balogun: Founder, Outspok’n Clothiers
The Story Most People Don’t Know
Interestingly, the earliest version of Outspok’n started with shirts.
Adesola noticed that many of his friends admired premium British brands like Thomas Pink and Charles Tyrwhitt. They loved the style but couldn’t always afford the price.
So he created an alternative.
“I provided a more affordable option,” he says, “something that allowed people to look good while still enjoying the style of premium shirts.”
What started as a simple solution eventually became the foundation of something much bigger.
Over time, Outspok’n evolved from just a business that gave him a stipend into something he truly loves, a passionate business that gives him meaning, employs hundreds of Nigerians, and allows him to make a statement about passion.
Today, Outspok’n stands as a testament to what can happen when necessity meets consistency.
Outspok’n linen and Aso-Oke tailoring detail close-up
What Makes Outspok’n Different?
At the heart of Outspok’n is a commitment to thoughtful tailoring and distinctive fabric combinations.
One of the brand’s signatures is the way it blends contemporary fabrics with traditional African textiles.
The way we combine contemporary fabrics, especially linen with Aso-Oke, is something we truly enjoy, Adesola says. “It sets us apart effortlessly.”
Beyond that, this combination brings together the lightness and breathability of linen with the richness and cultural depth of Aso-Oke, creating garments that feel both contemporary and rooted in heritage.
As a result, the brand creates menswear that refuses to choose between tradition and modernity.
“We see our pieces as bold yet comfortable, striking a balance between standing out and feeling at ease,” Adesola explains. “I want people to feel joy and confidence. I want them to feel honoured and feel good.”
What Outspok’n Is Bringing to TALES London
At TALES London, visitors can expect both familiar favourites and something entirely new.
This is what makes Outspok’n one of the most anticipated brands at TALES this summer.
Outspok’n will be bringing back the Skyline Pants and the Omo Oluwabi Pants, while also introducing pieces from its latest release, the Out Rocking Collection.
A few pieces from the new collection will make their debut at TALES, making it the first place you’ll be able to see and shop them in person.
For Adesola, however, the event represents more than a collection launch.
“TALES means community. TALES means enterprise. TALES means my dreams coming through,” he says. “It’s about enjoying the camaraderie among fellow creatives and seeing what we can achieve together.”
This summer, Outspok’n arrives in London with two decades of building behind it.
A new collection.
One room in London.
If you’re planning to attend TALES 2026, this is your chance to experience it in person.
Come Shop Outspok’n at TALES London
Come Experience Outspok’n at TALES London
Outspok’n will be showcasing at TALES House as part of Bellafricana’s celebration of African creative excellence this summer.
TALES House, 28 Cavendish Square, off Oxford Street, London W1G 0DB July 31 – August 1, and August 9, 2026 11 AM to 8 PM daily
“People should come and experience Outspok’n because it represents freedom, boldness, and confidence,” Adesola says.
If you’re in London this summer, this is your opportunity to experience two decades of craftsmanship, purpose, and style up close.
There’s a kind of fashion that simply covers the body. Then there is another kind that says something true about the woman wearing it.
Gia 1 Fashion belongs to the second category.
This August, the brand arrives at TALES London, Bellafricana’s celebration of African creative excellence. It brings with it a philosophy rooted in storytelling, emotion, and bold expression.
If you have seen even one image from Gia 1 Fashion, you already understand why people are paying attention.
A closer look at the silhouette and storytelling behind Gia 1 Fashion’s design language.
Who Is Behind Gia 1 Fashion?
Gia 1 Fashion is the work of Gloria Anyaehie. She is a designer based between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.
Her relationship with fashion goes far beyond fabric and silhouette. For her, clothing is not only about dressing women. It is about helping them see themselves again.
“All my life, I’ve used fashion not just to dress women, but to help them rediscover confidence and see themselves again,” she shares.
This is not a tagline. It is the foundation of the brand.
You can see it in every piece. From richly patterned kaftans to structured gowns that move with intention, each design carries presence.
Every detail is intentional, from texture to form, nothing is accidental.
The Story Behind the Brand
Gia 1 Fashion did not begin as a business plan.
It began as survival.
“I started my brand from a place of passion and pain,” Gloria says. “Fashion became my way of healing during difficult seasons of life. I wanted other women to experience that same transformation through fashion and style.”
Behind the bold prints and elegant draping is a story of resilience. It is the story of a woman who chose to keep creating, even in difficult seasons.
That choice became Gia 1 Fashion.
After more than twenty years in the fashion industry, Gloria describes showcasing at TALES as deeply meaningful.
“It means legacy, growth, visibility, and connection with other creatives on a deeper level,” she explains. “Standing on a platform like TALES feels like a reminder that my gift has purpose beyond what I can see.”
Fashion as healing — expressed through structure, pattern, and presence.
What Inspires Gia 1 Fashion Designs?
Look closely at a Gia 1 Fashion piece and you will notice a recurring detail. An abstract face appears across different designs, applied into the fabric in varying forms and colourways.
It is striking and intentional.
Gloria draws her inspiration from women.
“Women inspire me. Their strength, softness, journeys, and quiet courage,” she says. “Every piece is created to make a woman feel seen, graceful, and powerful.”
Faith and nature also shape her creative direction. But at the centre of it all is everyday womanhood.
This becomes visible in the final work.
Oversized sleeves move with drama. Prints combine animal and geometric influences. Colour pairings feel unexpected yet deliberate, from bold pinks against grey to deep magenta against blush tones.
The result is not trend-led fashion. It is emotional design.
Strength, softness, and storytelling woven into wearable form.
Why Gia 1 Fashion Feels Global
Gloria’s vision has never been limited to one city.
“Whether in London, Lagos, or New York, women understand the desire to feel confident, elegant, and whole,” she says. “That is what Gia 1 Fashion represents.”
That vision is already visible in the brand’s editorial work. Shot across London landmarks like Oxford Street and its surrounding architecture, the pieces feel at home in both African and global contexts.
They do not belong to one geography.
They move easily across them.
That versatility is part of what makes the brand compelling.
Gia 1 Fashion at TALES London
So what happens when this story steps into a physical space?
Gloria describes the experience as emotional and personal rather than transactional.
“Visitors should expect timeless statement pieces filled with emotion, elegance, and storytelling,” she says. “It will feel warm, personal, and unforgettable.”
Gia 1 Fashion will be showcasing at TALES House, 28 Cavendish Square, just off Oxford Street in London.
It will only be there for a limited time this August.
Once the showcase ends, this exact moment will not repeat itself.
It is part of the wider TALES London experience, a celebration of African creativity curated by Bellafricana. But Gia 1 Fashion stands as its own distinct story within it.
Why This Moment Matters
Gloria puts it simply.
“Gia 1 Fashion is more than a clothing brand. It is a story people can feel. Every piece carries healing, resilience, and the reminder that confidence can always rise again.”
Experience the collection in person this August at TALES House, 28 Cavendish Square.
If you are in London this August, this is a chance to experience that story in person.
To see the craftsmanship up close.
To understand the emotion behind the design.
And to meet the woman behind it.
Because when style heals, confidence rises.
Follow the journey: @gia1fashion for behind-the-scenes access to the brand and new collections. @bell_africana for more stories from TALES London and African creative excellence.
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