It’s fashion o’clock and the bags are bagging 👜👝👛! 💃🏾
You know I love blogging about fashion, but somehow I always have to tend to the other serious areas of our existence — politics, faith, parenting, wellbeing, life lessons… you know, all the things that require me to put on my thinking cap and behave like a responsible adult.😇 (man shall not live by fashion alone.)😉
And honestly, some of those posts take a lot out of me.
So today, I am very happy to announce that I have finally made my way back to one of my happy places — FASHION!
My fashion people, how have you been? What fabulous things have you been getting up to? I hope you’ve been enjoying yourselves, dressing well and generally giving us something nice to look at out there. Please, life is already doing enough — our outfits must not join the problem. 😁
Made by Us, Worn by Us
Now, if you’ve been reading this blog for a while, you already know that we are very much about “Wear Nigeria” around here. I love discovering Nigerian designers, sharing their work and drawing attention to homegrown brands that are doing genuinely exciting things.
And goodness me, hasn’t the Nigerian fashion industry been busy? Brethren, we have grown! 😁
There was a time when discovering a really good Nigerian fashion brand felt like you had found a little secret. Now? They are everywhere — I can barely keep up, and I absolutely love to see it!
And the best part? The industry just keeps growing. Every time I think I’ve discovered all the brands worth knowing, another fabulous one pops up and has me reaching for my imaginary shopping basket. 😁
From beautiful, wearable ready-to-wear pieces to breathtaking couture, bridalwear, occasionwear and everything in between, Nigerian designers are making their presence felt both at home and internationally.
And no, the accessories department has not been left behind.
The bags are bagging! 👜👝👛
Wear Nigeria — Bag Edition
If you watched our last fashion episode on Seriously Doughnuts, you may remember me confessing that I’m not really a “bag babe.” I appreciate them, of course, but you will rarely catch me discussing handbags with the same passion I reserve for a fabulous pair of shoes.
Shoes? That is another ministry entirely. 😌
But let’s be clear: bags are a necessity, and even I cannot resist a really good bag moment. I especially love a beautiful purse or clutch — something stylish, interesting and capable of pulling an entire outfit together.
And lately, Nigerian-owned bag brands have been giving us plenty to admire.
There are structured bags, playful bags, statement clutches, beautifully crafted leather pieces, beaded creations and those delicious little bags that make you pause mid-scroll and think, Excuse me, where is that from?
So, for this edition of the blog, I’m bringing you some of the Nigerian-owned bag brands currently catching my eye.
And beyond admiring them, I also want us to talk about something important: supporting our own.
From Fashion Love to Fashion Support
Because, my people, I think we have contributed quite generously to the Gucci, Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermès economies. 😂 They are doing alright. Nobody needs to organise a fundraiser for them.
Meanwhile, we have incredibly talented Nigerian designers building brands, creating jobs, refining their craft and producing pieces that deserve to be seen, carried and celebrated.
Every major fashion house we admire today started somewhere. Brands grow because people believe in them, invest in them, buy from them, talk about them and proudly carry their pieces.
So if we want to see Nigerian brands become global fashion powerhouses, we have a part to play too.
✅Buy them.
✅Wear them.
✅Carry them.
✅Tag them.
✅Recommend them.
And yes, critique them when necessary too — supporting our own doesn’t mean abandoning standards. In fact, the goal should be to encourage our brands to compete confidently with the very best in the world.
Because imagine walking into a room in Paris, London, New York or Lagos and somebody stops you to ask:
“Oh my goodness, where is your bag from?”
And you casually reply:
“It’s Nigerian.”
Now that is the kind of fashion conversation I like. 😌🇳🇬
So enough of my sermon before this fashion post turns into another life lesson — you know how I can be. 😂 Let’s get into the delicious Nigerian bag brands that have been catching my eye.
Come, let us window-shop together… although I cannot guarantee we will only be looking. 👀👜.
The Bags Are Bagging: Nigerian Brands We’re Loving
They say charity begins at home, so allow me to start this list very close to mine. 😁
And really, where better to begin than with my co-host, big sis, gist partner and someone I genuinely respect and hold in very high esteem — Bola Obileye, the creative force behind Tote London.
Now, before anybody shouts “favouritism!”, abeg calm down. 😂 The bags can speak for themselves. I just happen to have front-row seats to the creativity, passion and attention to detail that go into the brand.
So yes, we are starting at home — but trust me, this one has earned her place on the list.
Tote London — Sculptural Luxury with an African Soul
Founded by Nigerian-born, UK-based designer and entrepreneur Bola Obileye, Tote London is a luxury accessories and lifestyle brand known for its sculptural handbags, statement eyewear and bold approach to contemporary African design.
The brand blends African artistry with contemporary luxury, creating bold pieces characterised by architectural silhouettes, striking colour combinations and premium leather. Many of the handbags have an almost art-like quality — beautifully structured, unusual and designed to command attention.
Tote London is certainly not for the shrinking violet. These are bags that can take even the simplest outfit and instantly become the focal point.
And that is exactly what I enjoy about the brand — it understands that sometimes the bag does not merely complete the outfit; the bag is the outfit.
Bola’s confidence is reflected in Tote London. These are not shy accessories. The bags are strong, sculptural and unapologetically expressive — often feeling as much like collectible design objects as fashion pieces.
For the woman who likes her accessories bold, artistic and impossible to ignore.
LarAllan — Detail, Elegance and a Love of Statement Design with a Personal Story
Next up is another one close to home — a fashion lover and designer whose eye for detail I really admire, Lara Olutunbi of LarAllan.
Founded by Nigerian-born designer Lara Olutunbi, LarAllan is a UK-based accessories brand built around three things: attention to detail, quality and elegant design.
Lara’s love for design began in childhood, long before she pursued a career in finance. She later developed that creative side through courses at Central Saint Martins, studying fashion, fabrics and interior design.
The name LarAllan is itself deeply personal, combining Lara’s name with that of her late father, Allan. That sense of meaning carries through the brand, which celebrates women through pieces that are original, refined and confidently expressive.
Lara draws inspiration from everywhere — furniture, everyday objects, fabrics, textures and colour combinations — often taking a familiar shape and giving it an unexpected twist. Her designs are also intentionally functional, proving that a statement piece can still be practical.
For the woman who loves detail, originality and accessories that quietly announce themselves before she even says a word.
Joel Lani — Wearable Art, Handcrafted in Lagos
We’re still not straying too far from home with this next one. 😁 Joel Lani, founded by Adetoun Ajeigbe, is another brand I’m very happy to shine the spotlight on.
The Lagos-based accessories brand creates elegant, handcrafted leather bags with a strong emphasis on detail, craftsmanship and individuality.
The brand works with locally sourced materials, including a variety of leathers and exotic skins, which are transformed by skilled Nigerian artisans into bags that are functional but still feel distinctly luxurious.
What stands out about Joel Lani is the character of the pieces. The designs are polished and wearable, but there is always something interesting about them — whether it is the texture, shape, finish or choice of material.
The brand also places importance on supporting local craftsmanship, with its pieces produced in Lagos and a wider commitment to community development.
For the woman who likes her bags chic, beautifully finished and just a little bit artistic.
AABOUX — Quiet Luxury, Precision and Purpose
Founded in 2017 by Zainab Aliyu, AABOUX is a Nigerian luxury accessories brand built around structure, craftsmanship and understated elegance.
Before stepping into fashion, Zainab spent more than 15 years in the energy sector and is a UK-qualified Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA). Her move into design began rather unexpectedly after a visit to the Lekki Crafts Market in Lagos, where she couldn’t find the kind of bag she was looking for. So, she designed two herself — and AABOUX grew from there.
The brand name, pronounced “aa-boo,” comes from a personal nickname, and that sense of identity runs through the collections. Rather than chasing trends, Zainab draws inspiration from travel, her surroundings and the people closest to her, translating those influences into clean proportions, thoughtful details and beautifully controlled silhouettes.
Working with third-generation artisans, AABOUX produces limited pieces with a strong emphasis on quality, longevity and material.
I particularly like the restraint of the brand. Nothing feels overworked or desperate for attention; the appeal is in the detail, the construction and the confidence of a beautifully made piece.
For the woman who understands that sometimes the strongest statement is the one made quietly.
APàáRT — Where the Bag Becomes the Canvas
Founded in Lagos in 2016 by Wonu and Felix Okoye, APàáRT is a Nigerian luxury accessories brand known for handcrafted bags that bring together leatherwork, exotic skins and artistic expression.
The name itself is a clever blend of “Akpa,” the Igbo word for bag, and “Art” — which tells you almost everything you need to know about the brand’s point of view. Its pieces are designed not just as accessories, but as little works of wearable art.
Working with local artisans, APàáRT creates bags using materials including snake and crocodile skin, often combining them with mixed-media details and hand-painted finishes. The result is bold, distinctive and very far from mass-produced.
What I like about the brand is its sense of individuality. These are the kind of bags that make you look twice because there is always a little something unexpected happening.
And yes, I have already decided that I must get myself an Aunty Lulu personalised bag. I can already picture it, and honestly, I cannot wait. 😁
So, what are you waiting for? Go and get yours, girls!
For the woman who likes her handbag to do more than carry her essentials — she wants it to bring some drama too.
Femi Handbags — From One Diaper Bag to a Leather Legacy
Founded by Femi Olayebi, Femi Handbags is one of Nigeria’s longstanding luxury leather brands, creating beautifully handcrafted bags that blend contemporary design with African craftsmanship.
The story began in 1992, when Femi designed a diaper bag for herself while expecting her first child. What started as a practical solution eventually grew into a full leather accessories business, with pieces now produced by skilled artisans at the brand’s atelier in Ibadan.
Femi Handbags is known for its bold colours, structured silhouettes and beautiful detailing, often combining premium leather with traditional Aso Oke woven by Yoruba artisans. The result is a collection that feels modern while still carrying a strong sense of heritage.
Femi Olayebi’s contribution to the industry also goes beyond her own brand. She founded the Lagos Leather Fair, creating a platform to showcase African leather talent, support artisans and help grow the wider leather industry.
What I love here is the journey — from making one bag because she couldn’t find exactly what she needed, to building a brand that has remained relevant for decades.
Proof that sometimes one very good bag can be the beginning of something much bigger.
O’Eclat Designs — Heritage, Handcrafted for the Modern Woman
Founded in 2010 by Gbemisola Johnson, O’Eclat Designs is a Nigerian accessories brand creating beautifully handcrafted leather bags with a distinctly African identity.
Interestingly, the brand began from a very relatable problem: Gbemisola simply couldn’t find the right handbag — one that offered the quality, size, functionality and price she wanted. So, she decided to create it herself.
Working with skilled artisans in Lagos, O’Eclat combines premium leather with indigenous textiles such as Aso Oke, Adire, Ankara and Batik, giving traditional materials a fresh, contemporary interpretation. The bags are produced in small batches, making each piece feel that little bit more special.
The brand’s commitment to craftsmanship and responsible production has earned it international recognition, including finalist spots at the Independent Handbag Designer Awards for Most Socially Responsible Handbag, as well as features in publications including Vogue UK and Marie Claire.
What catches my eye about O’Eclat is the balance. The bags celebrate African heritage without feeling overly traditional, and they are structured and elegant while remaining functional enough for real life — from the boardroom to brunch and everywhere in between.
Beautifully African, decidedly modern and made to be carried for years rather than seasons. Now that is my kind of bag.
KISARA — Slow Fashion with Main Character Energy
Founded in 2018 by Eki Ogunbor, KISARA is a slow-fashion accessories brand inspired by African craftsmanship, culture and a love for statement design.
The brand creates handcrafted pieces for women who enjoy fashion with personality — confident, individual and unapologetically expressive. Its aesthetic is bold without feeling disposable, with an emphasis on pieces that can be worn, loved and kept beyond one season.
Eki brings a strong fashion pedigree to the brand. She began her career at BellaNaija, where she launched BellaNaija Style as its Founding Editor, and has since built a career spanning fashion writing, creative direction, brand collaborations and corporate communications. She is also an alumna of the Condé Nast College of Fashion & Design and has worked with brands including MAC Cosmetics, Lancôme and YSL Beauty.
That eye for fashion and storytelling naturally comes through in KISARA. The pieces feel considered, stylish and full of character.
And if “main character energy” is the brief, KISARA clearly understood the assignment. 😁
Zashadu — Sustainable Luxury, Made in Lagos
Founded in 2010 by Zainab Ashadu, Zashadu is an award-winning Nigerian luxury handbag brand known for combining beautiful design with thoughtful, sustainable craftsmanship.
Handcrafted in Lagos, the bags are produced in small quantities using carefully sourced materials, including reclaimed and surplus leather. The designs are distinctive, often structured and architectural, with a quiet sophistication that makes them instantly recognisable.
The brand has gained international attention, with its pieces carried by women including Beyoncé and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, while Zainab herself was recognised in 2022 as one of Lagos State’s 100 most influential women.
What I love about Zashadu is its understated confidence. These are bags that do not need to scream luxury — the craftsmanship does the talking.
One for the woman who likes her fashion sophisticated, distinctive and just a little bit unexpected.
Winston Luxury Leather — Heritage in Every Stitch
Founded by Winston Udeagha, Winston Luxury Leather is a Nigerian luxury leather brand with craftsmanship quite literally in its DNA.
The brand grew out of God’s Little Tannery, a family leather business with roots in Kano and generations of experience working with high-quality leather. Before Winston Luxury Leather became a consumer-facing brand, that expertise had already been supplying leather to major international fashion houses — so the foundation here is very much about the material itself.
Its handbag collections celebrate that heritage through structured silhouettes, rich leather finishes and designs that feel polished without losing their practicality. From elegant handbags to larger totes and travel pieces, the emphasis remains on quality, durability and proudly African craftsmanship.
What I particularly like about Winston is the confidence behind the brand. It is not trying to imitate European luxury; it is making the point that exceptional leather and craftsmanship already exist here, and deserve to sit comfortably in the global luxury conversation.
For the woman who loves a beautifully made leather bag with substance, heritage and a story behind it.
Ohiole Lagos — Where Leather Meets Art
Founded by Idowu Ohiole, Ohiole Lagos is a Nigerian leather goods brand known for handcrafted bags that bring together traditional artistry, contemporary design and a strong appreciation for timeless craftsmanship.
Idowu has built the brand around meticulous attention to detail and a belief that luxury should be felt in the quality of the work. That philosophy comes through in Ohiole Lagos’ distinctive leather pieces, many of which feature hand-painted artwork, bold colour and expressive Afro-art influences.
The brand’s collections range from polished executive totes to more playful statement bags, but the common thread is craftsmanship, individuality and a certain confidence. Each piece feels considered, with that lovely balance between functionality and artistic expression.
Ohiole Lagos has also earned industry recognition, including the Most Innovative Designer award at the Lagos Leather Fair.
What I particularly like about the brand is that it doesn’t treat leather simply as a material — it treats it as a canvas. The bags feel elegant and beautifully made, but there is always something interesting happening in the design.
For the woman who appreciates craftsmanship but still wants her bag to have personality — and perhaps enter the room just a few seconds before she does. 😁
DAEZ — Wearable Art for the Woman Who Refuses to Blend In
Founded by Adaeze Onah, DAEZ is an avant-garde accessories brand creating bold, sculptural pieces designed to sit somewhere between fashion and art.
The brand launched its debut collection, Elemental Harmony, in February 2025, introducing a design language that plays with contrast — hard architectural hardware against softer, more fluid materials. The result is striking, modern and deliberately statement-making.
Adaeze, a Nigerian-born creative with a background in engineering, fashion blogging and lifestyle content, brings that mix of structure and imagination into the brand. DAEZ is built around the idea that accessories should be more than finishing touches; they should be forms of self-expression and conversation starters.
There is also a conscious side to the brand, with responsibly sourced materials, eco-conscious packaging and a commitment to supporting widows and orphans through a portion of its proceeds.
What I like about DAEZ is that it doesn’t seem interested in playing safe. The bags are designed for the woman who wants something different — something with shape, attitude and presence.
For the woman who doesn’t want her bag to merely match the outfit. She wants it to challenge it a little.
JUMZ — African Storytelling, Reimagined
Founded in 2018 by Olajumoke Jimoh, JUMZ — formerly known as Jumz Accessories and now operating as BYJUMZS — is a contemporary handcrafted fashion and accessories brand inspired by African heritage and modern luxury.
With roots in both Lagos and New York, the brand draws on traditional artisan techniques, including hand-woven beadwork, while giving them a fresh, fashion-forward interpretation. Its collections celebrate the artistry, adornment and cultural richness of African women through pieces that feel bold, luxurious and contemporary.
JUMZ works closely with skilled artisans and places strong emphasis on sustainable craftsmanship and fair compensation, ensuring that the people behind the handmade pieces are valued just as much as the finished designs.
The brand has also gained international recognition, with features in publications and platforms including Elle, Cosmopolitan, The Cut, NBC News, PopSugar and Brides.
What stands out to me is the storytelling. JUMZ does not simply create beautiful accessories; it takes elements of African tradition and gives them a modern voice.
For the woman who likes her fashion expressive, beautifully handcrafted and proudly connected to her heritage.
Our Leather, Our Luxury, Our Story
There you have it — bags, glorious bags! Bags made with leather, Aso Oke, beads, Ankara. The tassels, the trimmings artwork and so much more, all thoughtfully crafted for your carrying pleasure.
And to think, there are so many more Nigerian and Nigerian-owned bag brands out there. These are simply the ones that caught my eye this time around — so please don’t come for me if your favourite is missing. 😁 Consider this Part One if necessary
What makes this even more exciting is that Nigeria already has a rich leather heritage, particularly in the North, with Nigerian leather finding its way into international markets and global fashion supply chains. So it is only right that we are increasingly seeing our own designers take that story further — creating the bags, building the brands and adding the value ourselves.
About time, abi? 😁
We have spent years admiring and investing in the big international fashion houses. There is absolutely nothing wrong with a little Chanel or Hermès moment, but surely there is room in that wardrobe for our own luxury too.
So that the next time somebody stops you and asks, “Where is your bag from?” you can flash your brightest smile and say:
“Oh, this? It’s Nigerian.” 😌🇳🇬
Now that is a fashion flex I can fully support.
Go on, ladies — carry Nigeria fabulously.
— Aunty Lulu
Still in the Mood for Nigerian Fashion?
Fashion – Nigerian brands I love.
