In a world where fast fashion dominates and mass-produced footwear floods the market, one Lagos-based brand is boldly rewriting the narrative, one step at a time. BLAQ ESSENCE isn’t just selling shoes; it’s building confidence, preserving African craftsmanship, and empowering individuals to express their authentic style through handcrafted excellence.

What began as a childhood fascination beside a grandmother’s market stall has blossomed into a premium footwear brand trusted across Nigeria. With deep roots in tradition, innovation, and local artistry, BLAQ ESSENCE is leading the charge in transforming how African-made luxury is crafted, worn, and celebrated.

The Story Behind BLAQ ESSENCE

dupe gani

BLAQ ESSENCE is redefining footwear with a range of handcrafted leather shoes and accessories designed to blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary style. Founded in Lagos, the brand specialises in premium leather footwear solutions, from bold platform sandals to sophisticated everyday pieces that celebrate African heritage while meeting modern fashion demands. Each product is expertly crafted by skilled local artisans, offering a luxury alternative that solves sizing problems, ensures durability, and delivers timeless elegance.

BLAQ ESSENCE was founded by Dupe Gani S. with a clear mission: to create handcrafted footwear that empowers individuals to embrace bold, Afro-centric style without compromising on quality or comfort. Motivated by her grandmother’s legacy as a shoe seller and her own journey through entrepreneurial challenges, Dupe began her footwear journey after her clothing brand faced difficulties.

“My grandmother was a shoe seller! Growing up with her, she would travel to Abidjan to buy rubber shoes and distribute them to the market women,” Dupe recalls. “I fell in love with the cuteness of footwear and their designs and colours. The love for footwear sprang from there.”

After trying different businesses and facing failures, Dupe found her calling when native wear clients began asking her to pair their outfits with handmade shoes. What started as research during her travels became a full commitment to footwear design immediately after COVID-19. By 2021, BLAQ ESSENCE was born, and as Dupe puts it, “It has been amazing ever since!”

From Childhood Dreams to a Lagos Footwear Powerhouse

 

In 2021, BLAQ ESSENCE embarked on a mission to redefine handcrafted footwear in Nigeria. What began with memories of a grandmother’s shoe business has blossomed into one of Lagos’s most distinctive premium footwear brands. Rooted in heritage, resilience, and authentic African creativity, BLAQ ESSENCE has become a beacon for those seeking to express their style through quality craftsmanship.

What Makes BLAQ ESSENCE Unique?

BLAQ ESSENCE is unique because it is one of the few Lagos-based brands that doesn’t compromise on premium materials while celebrating bold, Afro-centric design. Each piece is intentionally crafted to solve sizing problems and create timeless designs that stand the test of time.

The BLAQ ESSENCE Philosophy: Empowerment Through Craftsmanship

BLAQ ESSENCE is more than just a footwear brand; it’s a celebration of African creativity. Their philosophy centres on empowering individuals to embrace bold, authentic style through handcrafted excellence. With the tagline “From Lagos, With Love,” BLAQ ESSENCE turns its local roots into a global strength, proudly celebrating African creativity in a world-class way.

Product Excellence: Tradition Meets Innovation

Crafted in Lagos, BLAQ ESSENCE’s product line is a harmonious blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design. Their offerings cater to various style needs, including

  • Platform Sandals & Statement Pieces: Bold, Afro-centric designs that blend African-inspired flair with modern silhouettes.
  • Premium Leather Shoes: Crafted with genuine leather, calf padding, and durable soles for luxurious, long-lasting comfort.
  • Men’s & Women’s Collections: Versatile pieces designed for both genders, positioning the brand between luxury and everyday wear.

Each product is meticulously crafted by skilled local artisans to address specific concerns, from sizing problems to durability, while connecting every piece to Lagos’s vibrant culture and craftsmanship heritage.

 

Beyond Products: Cultural Preservation and Community Impact

Understanding that fashion is a form of cultural expression, BLAQ ESSENCE extends its impact through supporting local artisans and preserving traditional craftsmanship techniques. Each pair creates employment opportunities within the Lagos community while ensuring that traditional skills are passed down and celebrated.

The Vision Moving Forward

As BLAQ ESSENCE continues to grow, its vision remains clear: to be at the forefront of African luxury craftsmanship on the global stage. With plans to expand their design range and reach, BLAQ ESSENCE is poised to make an even more significant impact in the fashion industry, proving that African-made luxury can compete with the world’s best.

Join the BLAQ ESSENCE Movement

Experience the BLAQ ESSENCE difference and become part of a community that celebrates authentic African style through premium craftsmanship.

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