Maxhosa by Laduma

South Africa

Laduma Ngxokolo first started his Maxhosa by Laduma line with the aim of creating knitwear to be worn by amakrwala — Xhosa initiates who by tradition must dress in formal attire for six months following their initiation ceremony. Inspired by the traditional Xhosa beadwork, Ngxokolo has since developed Maxhosa by Laduma into a premium brand of knitwear using South Africa–sourced Mohair and wool. The brand’s awards include African Fashion International’s “Emerging Designer of the Year” for 2014, Vogue Italia’s “Scouting for Africa” prize in 2015, and Design Indaba’s “Most Beautiful Object in South Africa” award in 2016, among others. maxhosa.co.za

Yefikir Design

Ethiopia

Using traditional handwoven cotton fabric to create her eye-catching designs, Fikirte Addis founder Yefikir Addis unites comfort and style without sacrificing the rich heritage of Ethiopian weaving. Her collection is handwoven from local materials by local weavers who benefit from the brand’s commitment to fairly traded products. Through her brand, Yefikir has also championed child labor–free production in conjunction with Ethiopia’s Fashion Design Association and the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs. Yefikir Design took part in Africa Fashion Week in New York (AFWNY) 2015.