If you’ve ever wondered where creativity, culture, and entrepreneurship collide in the most beautiful way, look no further than TALES 2025. This isn’t just any pop-up; it’s a gathering of visionaries, creators, and dreamers who are bringing African creativity to London and sharing it with the world. Over the course of 10 incredible days (July 25th to August 3rd), London will play host to some of the most inspiring African-owned brands across fashion, accessories, food, wellness, and lifestyle. But today, let’s not just talk about products. Let’s talk about the people behind these brands: the founders, the stories, and the passion. Here’s your insider’s guide to the creatives you’ll meet at TALES 2025.          

FASHION BRANDS

Bold Statements. Cultural Pride. Contemporary Craftsmanship.
African fashion continues to lead the conversation globally, not just through fabric but through storytelling, heritage, and bold innovation. These brands are defining what African fashion looks like in this new era.   GIA 1 Fashion: A modern African fashion brand creating bold, elegant pieces rooted in African aesthetics. Expect rich prints, structured tailoring, and empowering designs for women who want to make a bold statement. Outspok’n Clothiers: Lagos-based, this streetwear label is all about boldness, merging culture, art, and fashion in pieces that say something without you having to. RISHI by Ailakoko: Fusing African prints with contemporary silhouettes, RISHI offers both ready-to-wear and bespoke collections that celebrate femininity and culture. Melia by Jade: Feminine, graceful, yet quietly powerful, Melia’s pieces speak to the modern African woman who embraces both tradition and innovation. Ara Lagos: Think Yoruba heritage meets modern luxury. Ara Lagos crafts timeless pieces that tell stories through textures and details. Austine Mali: For the gentlemen, Austine Mali’s bespoke menswear blends African roots with Western elegance, perfect for those who appreciate craftsmanship. Morin O:  A leather goods brand crafting luxury handbags and accessories, proudly made in Nigeria with a global appeal. FIA: Playful, bold, and rooted in African tradition, FIA is for women who love vibrant prints with a modern twist. MAP by Ihekubi: Everyday fashion elevated by African heritage — MAP’s sophisticated designs bring subtle tradition into daily life. Style Envie: Global contemporary trends meet African craftsmanship here, creating versatile pieces that travel well between continents. Never Knowingly Boring: True to its name, this is for the unconventional dresser — bold, quirky, and unapologetically unique. Seraban GH:  Ghanaian vibrance shines through in garments that honour culture while feeling fresh and modern. Abikeiyaleke: Tradition meets contemporary sophistication in this elegant womenswear line for the modern African woman. Sassy by Etty:  Confident, expressive, and colourful designs made for the woman who isn’t afraid to stand out. Ethnik Africa: Sustainability and heritage are at the heart of Ethnik’s mission, with local fabrics and artisans crafting fashion with purpose. Diakwu Cloth: A celebration of African textile artistry, offering innovative yet grounded designs. Cladini: Everyday wear elevated by authentic African stories and thoughtful craftsmanship. Efata by Juba:  Vibrant prints, bold patterns, Efata is joyfully wearable African fashion. Simeogieme:  Luxurious, architectural silhouettes that merge African inspiration with couture craftsmanship. Ebonimode: Timeless pieces that fuse modern trends with deep cultural heritage. Kaykay Brand: Playful, bold, and vibrant fashion with African narratives at its core. RTW by Tee Tee:  Ready-to-wear collections blending heritage with contemporary elegance. Christine Atelier: Timeless, handcrafted garments blending culture and high fashion. Nathanielles: Reimagining African prints for the modern wardrobe through clean, wearable styles. VWH Apparel: Edgy, detailed designs bringing Afrocentric fashion into sharp, modern focus. Keyke Clothing: Fashion-forward, modern, with a firm nod to African heritage. Xclamations UK: Sophisticated, vibrant designs for women who love bold prints and statement pieces. ASHABI FADS: Authentic African designs blending tradition and innovation with style. TwoCrowns Clothiers:  Luxury inspired by royalty, brought to life through modern tailoring. Afribix:  A beautiful fusion of tradition and contemporary design, Afribix celebrates Black culture through fashion. Massassi B: Representing the vibrant spirit of African creativity in every stitch. Nubi Collective:  A collaborative celebration of African identity through thoughtful, expressive fashion. GNATION:  Fashion that empowers the next generation through heritage-driven creativity. SuneV Couture: Exclusive, elegant designs honouring African femininity through craftsmanship. OYAAto:  Meaning “unique,” this brand delivers statement fashion for the bold-hearted.        

ACCESSORIES & LIFESTYLE BRANDS

Thoughtfully Crafted Details That Complete Every Look.
Accessories and lifestyle brands are not just add-ons; they tell personal stories, create conversations, and add colour to everyday life.     FC Accessories:  Bold, culturally inspired pieces designed for the modern, confident woman. Accessory-Ville: Colourful, handcrafted accessories full of joy, creativity, and African flair. FigTree Company: Luxury homeware and lifestyle accessories blending African aesthetics with modern sophistication. Andrew Tabitha: Elegant, timeless accessories designed for the sophisticated individual. Republic of Ruru: Fashion and home accessories rooted in African culture, with a distinctive, modern edge. Scqueeze: Fun, playful lifestyle accessories designed to brighten the everyday. Betza Tribe: Afrocentric accessories celebrating indigenous craftsmanship and culture. Bloomberry NG: Playful, creative accessories honouring African artistry. Deezmundu: Artisanal accessories that blend local materials with a modern touch. Dezapanache: Bold, statement accessories rooted in African traditions. Irinre Adire:  Reviving ancient textile artistry through modern, wearable accessories. Cornucopia Fashion: Curated lifestyle brand delivering distinctive, African-influenced accessories. Budding Blue by Fiolakemi: Joyful, handmade accessories crafted with love and intention. Highball Haus:  Stylish barware and lifestyle products to elevate home entertaining. TALES Merch: Exclusive pieces capturing the spirit of TALES through fashion and lifestyle. Minist:  Creative, playful designs that span fashion, home, and lifestyle.    

FOOD & BEVERAGE BRANDS

 
Taste, Culture, and Celebration of African Flavours.
Nothing connects people like food, and these brands are bringing the taste of Africa to London, one bite (or sip) at a time. Naija Treats: Authentic Nigerian snacks crafted with love, nostalgia, and premium ingredients.   Happy Coffee: Founded by Princess Adeyinka Tekenah, this is Nigeria’s pioneering indigenous coffee brand,  spotlighting homegrown beans with pride.   Teniade Macaulay: Curated gourmet experiences celebrating African-inspired culinary creativity.   Puff Puff Man: Reimagining Nigeria’s iconic puff-puff into fresh, fun treats for the modern foodie.   DODO africa: Putting plantain at the heart of African snacking culture with creative, delightful twists.   Hadassah: Premium Nigerian confectionery and baked treats, rich in heritage and flavour.   Tito by Chef Yemss:  Exquisite baked goods with a Nigerian twist, crafted by Chef Yemss.     Aftrad Village Kitchen: Home-style Ghanaian cooking sharing the warmth and depth of African flavours.   Meliza’s:  Afro-Caribbean treats blending flavours from Nigeria to the islands.   Deshilicious Treats: Handcrafted sweet and savoury African delicacies rooted in tradition.      

WELLNESS & HOME BRANDS

Care, Calm, and Creativity for Body, Soul, and Space.
Home, wellness, and beauty brands remind us to care for ourselves and our spaces with intention and joy.     TDP Home: Homeware rooted in African artistry, bringing texture, warmth, and culture to modern living tells a bigger story of Africa’s rich past, vibrant present, and limitless future.   Elizabeth Divine: Beauty and wellness products inspired by African botanicals and traditional self-care rituals.  

    Behind every brand is a person: a dreamer, a builder, a cultural custodian, using creativity to tell Africa’s story in ways the world can see, touch, and taste. If you’re in London this July and August, meet them. Come hear their stories. Come celebrate African creativity in all its glory. Follow the Journey

Why TALES 2025 Matters

TALES 2025 is more than just a marketplace. It’s a platform for African entrepreneurs, creatives, and artisans to connect with a global audience in London. Every fashion line, every snack, and every handcrafted accessory tells a bigger story of Africa’s rich past, vibrant present, and limitless future. Behind every brand is a person: a dreamer, a builder, a cultural custodian, using creativity to tell Africa’s story in ways the world can see, touch, and taste. If you’re in London this July and August, come meet them. Come hear their stories. Come celebrate African creativity in all its glory.   Follow the Journey Join us at tales.bellafricana.co.uk and follow Bellafricana as we continue to shine a light on Africa’s finest creatives.
Bellafricana published in Fashion, Handmade, Life Style, People & Culture

8 Black Owned Handbag Brands You Would Love

In the world of fashion, handbag brands have long held a special place as both functional accessories and statement pieces that can elevate any outfit. You can never look out of place with our avant-garde creations. The handbag industry has witnessed a lot of creativity and innovation globally, much of which can be attributed to Black-owned brands.

In this blog, l will take you on a journey through the world of fashion as I showcase 8 remarkable Black-owned handbag brands that have been making waves with their unique styles, quality craftsmanship, and commitment to diversity and inclusion.

  1. Femi Handbags

This bag is made by a brand called Femihandbag. It is more than just a handbag brand; it’s an art. With every purchase, you’re not just acquiring a handbag; you’re supporting a brand that stands for something bigger. These handbags are conversation starters, reflecting your individuality and zest for life. It encourages you to embrace color and creativity, inspiring confidence and self-expression with every carry. Whether you’re heading to a formal event, a casual gathering, or a day of exploration, these bags effortlessly adapt to your needs.

2. Ailakoko

This is a beauty accentuated by creativity, These types of handbags are not for the faint of heart. They’re for the bold, the confident, and those who embrace their individuality. With daring designs, vibrant colors, and striking embellishments, each bag tells a story of self-expression and creativity. This handbag is a testament to the brand’s dedication to quality. Meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans, these bags are not just accessories; they’re works of art

Looking for creative gift ideas for your loved ones or next event? Click here
3. O’Eclat

These bags are called Ella midi bags, it also come in big sizes, the Ella maxi bags. Whether you opt for the charming elegance of the “Ella Midi” or the chic spaciousness of the “Ella Maxi,” O’eclat’s handbags are designed to elevate your style and cater to your needs. With its commitment to versatility and craftsmanship, O’eclat offers a range of options that embody the essence of sophistication. Choose O’eclat, and you choose elegance, versatility, and an accessory that seamlessly integrates into your life, making every day a little more glamorous.

4. Hooked by Lade

You can call her the crochet bag architect. Using eco-friendly yarns, she makes beautiful handmade crochet bags. What sets “Hooked by Alade” apart is the uniqueness of each bag. No two pieces are exactly alike, ensuring that you carry a piece of wearable art that reflects your individuality. This brand skillfully transforms yarn into intricate patterns and textures, resulting in bags that are both functional and exquisite. Each handmade crochet bag is a labor of love, showcasing the time-honored art of crochet in a modern and fashion-forward way. Whether it’s the delicate stitches or the vibrant color palettes, these bags are a testament to the mastery of craft.

5. Kua Designs

Introducing the exquisite “Kua designs” handbags. Another incredible Black-owned handbag brand that has mastered the art of creating timeless elegance with a modern twist. The brand understands that handbags should adapt to your lifestyle, and these bags do just that. From the selection of premium materials to the precise stitching, these bags are a testament to the brand’s commitment to excellence.

6. Marte Egele

Explore the colorful side of fashion with this sophisticated handmade bag. What sets Marteegele apart is its fearless approach to color. These handbags are not afraid to make a statement. With a palette that ranges from bold and vibrant to subtle and elegant, Marteegele’s bags offer a rainbow of choices to suit every mood and occasion. Whether you’re drawn to deep, rich hues or prefer the playfulness of pastels, you’ll find a bag that resonates with your personal style.

Explore the colorful side of fashion with this sophisticated handmade bag. What sets Marteegele apart is its fearless approach to color.. 8 Black Owned Handbag Brands You Would Love.

7. AAboux

Every AAboux bag is a labor of love, meticulously crafted by skilled artisans who take pride in their work. The brand’s dedication to handmade excellence is evident in the attention to detail and the passion that goes into each creation. These bags are more than fashion; they are a canvas for your personality, a testament to handmade artistry, and an exploration of the colorful side of sophistication. With AAboux you’ll not only carry a handbag but a piece of art that exudes personality, style, and a captivating burst of color.

Every AAboux bag is a labor of love, meticulously crafted by skilled artisans who take pride in their work. 8 Black Owned Handbag Brands You Would Love..

8. Ethnik Afrika

This brand prides itself in telling African stories, culture and traditions using fashion. Each handbag is a fusion of ancient craftsmanship and contemporary design, resulting in a fashion that pays homage to the past while remaining relevant in the present. With each purchase you make, you become a part of this narrative, a custodian of Africa’s stories. Join the movement, wear your story, and let Ethnik Afrika be your fashion guide to the heart of Africa’s culture and traditions.

8 Black Owned Handbag Brands You Would Love. This Ethnik Africa brand prides itself in telling African stories, culture and traditions using fashion.Conclusion

From “Femihandbags” with its fearless designs and impeccable craftsmanship to “O’eclat” with its blend of elegance and versatility, we’ve explored handbag brands that cater to a wide range of tastes and occasions. “Hooked by Alade” brought sustainability and artistry together through eco-friendly crochet bags, while “Marteegele” introduced us to the world of colorful sophistication in handmade creations. Finally, “Ethnik Afrika” seamlessly wove African stories, culture, and tradition into the fabric of fashion.

As you carry their creations, you carry a piece of their stories, their culture, and their commitment to excellence. Fashion, after all, is not just about what you wear; it’s about the stories you tell with every step you take.

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Bellafricana published in Fashion

5 elegant ways to style using accessories

bags by Ethnik Africa Utu on Bellafricana marketplace

Accessorising is an art that not everyone can master. It’s easy to add accessories to your clothes, but it’s a lot harder to do so without making it look like you have a lot of accessories. Don’t get me wrong – accessories are fun and they’re great to show off your personality, but only if you do so without looking like you’re trying too hard.

Here are 5 elegant ways to style using accessories without looking overdone.

  1. Add earrings to your style effortlessly

Accessorizing is all about adding those final touches that can really make an outfit pop. When it comes to styling with accessories, less is usually more. A few well-chosen pieces can really elevate your look, while too many can be overwhelming. One way to style with accessories is to choose one or two standout pieces and build your outfit around them. For example, if you have a great pair of earrings, you can let them be the star of the show by keeping the rest of your jewelry simple. Or if you have a fabulous statement necklace, you can wear it with a plain top or dress to really let it shine.

Another way to style with accessories is to use them to add a bit of personality to your look. If you tend to dress on the more conservative side, injecting a bit of fun with your accessories can really liven up your style. A pop of color or a funky pattern can really make an outfit more interesting. So don’t be afraid to experiment with your accessories and have fun with them!

Bracelet by kunmbi work on bellafricana marketplace

 2. Add to style your outfit with a bag to make your outfit pop

From bags to suits to shoes, accessories are the key to your outfit. And remember, you don’t need many accessories to be stylish. simple accessories are the best way to elevate your style. Most certainly, some type of bags are the center piece of your dressing, so go get your beautiful bags in place and if you are still wondering where to shop for those beautiful bags, ethnic has got you covered. Lets help you look stylish on budget.

bags by Ethnik Utu on Bellafricana marketplace

3. Add a stylish hat

A bucket hat is a great way to add a touch of style to your outfit. They can be worn with just about anything, from a casual t-shirt and jeans to a more formal dress. Here are a few tips on how to style up with a bucket hat:

-Pair it with a denim jacket for a casual look.
-Wear it with a sundress and sandals for a beach-chic look.
-Layer it over a hoodie for a sporty look.
-Dress it up with a blazer and heels for a night out.

No matter what your style, a bucket hat is a great way to add a little personality to your outfit. So go ahead and give it a try!

Ethnik Africa bowler hats

Also Read: 7 Women’s Handbags To Shop For In Nigeria

4. Never lose sight of a nice jewelry

There are many ways to accessorize with nice jewelries. One way is to choose a piece that compliments your outfit. Another way is to choose a piece that makes a statement. You can also mix and match different pieces to create your own unique look. When accessorizing with jewelry, it is important to keep in mind the overall look you are trying to achieve. If you are going for a more understated look, then choose simple pieces that will not overwhelm your outfit. If you want to make more of a statement, then choose bolder pieces that will really stand out.

Mixing and matching different pieces is a great way to create your own personal style. Try pairing a delicate necklace with a chunky bracelet, or a colorful scarf with some statement earrings. By mixing and matching different pieces, you can create a look that is truly unique to you.

zivanora jewelry culla collection trio necklace on bellafricana marketplace

5. Add a tote bag for glamour

When trying not to look so over the top, try using a nice tote bag. Thanks to Dhoney Adire, where you say bye bye to boring looking tote bags. With these tie and dye fashionable tote bag, be sure to look stunning. African tie and dye tote bags are the perfect way to add a touch of style to your outfit. They can be worn with any type of clothing, from casual to formal, and they add a touch of personality to any outfit.

Tote bag by dhoney on bellafricana marketplace

Conclusion:

Nowadays, it’s not just about how you style your accessories, but also about the accessories you choose. Luxury accessories have become popular and are often an excellent way to elevate an outfit. If you’re looking for a gift for that special someone on your shopping list, consider any of these 5 elegant ways to style using accessorize . After reading this blog, you won’t be stuck on the thought of how to style with accessories. Now, click to shop all accessories.

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Bellafricana published in Articles, Uncategorized

Personalized Gifts For Christmas In 2019

It is no longer news that with Christmas comes more food, drinks, and loads of gifts. Gifts from mum, dad, sister, brother, and lots of other loved ones will be flying in the air but the gifts that will definitely stand out are those personalized gifts.

There is something about personalized gifts that makes it so special and close to the heart. I mean, imagine getting a plain shirt versus getting a shirt with your name or picture inscribed on it, which would you never want to lose? Yeah, yeah, you love the two but one calls you more because it is personalized.

Hence, on this post, I will be sharing with you some really cool personalized gift ideas for friends and family this season. You don’t want to miss it, so keep reading to see;

Personalized Throw Pillows;

Did you know you can get a throw pillow with the name or picture of your loved one on it? If you didn’t know, lucky you, now you know. If you knew already, have given this out as a Christmas gift? If you haven’t, this is me telling you that you should consider it and wow friends and family in this season of love.

Customized throw pillow for christmas gift idea

Throw Pillow From Pillow Talk Naija

Call: +2348181890113

Personalized Christmas Card;

Gone are the are the days when you needed to walk up to a store searching for a card with special words or picture for your loved one. Now, you can simply have your card designed and personalized for you. Isn’t that amazing?

Christmas Card as a christmas gift idea

Customized Card From Not Just Pulp

WhatApp: +2348177322184

Personalized Shirt; If you watch football, you must have noticed that behind every jersey of a player, they have their names written behind. For this Christmas, you can have the names of your loved one behind and present to them as a gift. You can bet they would be so excited.  Keep reading to see a picture below;

Personalized gift item from Mmabon

Customized Tshirt From Mmabon

Call: 0803 724 7378

Personalized Tote Bags; Tote bags are slowly becoming a fashion statement and you don’t want to miss out on the opportunity to rock this with loved ones. So, get a personalized bag for yourself and a friend this Christmas.

Tote Bag From Mimiremitextiles

Hand Printed Tote Bag From Mimiremi Textiles

Call: 08034898474

I do hope that with this, you have a better understanding of what to get family members for Christmas.

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