LLF 2025 Exhibitor Spotlight — African Artistry, Reimagined

Ahead of Lagos Leather Fair 2025, taking place on the 28th and 29th of June at The Balmoral, Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, FashionEVO is proud to spotlight the remarkable brands shaping the future of African leather. From innovative design houses and heritage artisans to global exports and sustainable visionaries, this year’s exhibitors capture the rich diversity and dynamic spirit of the continent’s leather ecosystem.

International Influences

This year brings a notable wave of international presence, with exhibitors bringing global attention to African techniques. Ghanaian brand Auth’Afrique showcases a luxurious marriage of traditional artistry and contemporary style. Also from Ghana, Sole Inspiration fuses vegetable tanned leather with glass beads and cow horn in their eclectic pieces. Aya K Design bridges tradition and modernity with ethnic accessories reimagined for today’s world, while Fusion Leather, a leading tannery, supplies to both domestic and overseas markets. From Senegal, Wadji Design brings a bold, feminine aesthetic rooted in West African heritage and elegance.

These global players underline what LLF has always believed: African craftsmanship belongs on the world stage.

Defining Craftsmanship at LLF 2025

In every stitch and silhouette, these standout brands embody the spirit of Lagos Leather Fair 2025. Whether rooted in heritage or driven by bold creative vision, each label reflects the dynamic evolution of African craftsmanship.

Marté Egele, the Nigerian born, globally minded brand, merges versatility and individuality into modern leather accessories designed for expression as much as function.

Similarly, Ṣosmith offers quiet luxury for those who value heritage over hype, presenting minimalist silhouettes with an unmistakable sense of cultural depth.

Nichole by Haguanna brings refined glamour to the fore with its exotic skin handbags. Each piece is crafted with precision, blending elegance and bold materiality.

Aaboux, with its stitch less, sculptural bags inspired by the African headwrap, presents collectible pieces of cultural elegance.

Morin.O stands out with its artistic innovation and ethnic design, creating sophisticated leather goods rooted in sustainable sourcing and timeless elegance.

For footwear that commands presence, Metal delivers handcrafted boots that are unapologetically bold, blending architectural discipline with a fiercely independent spirit. On the other end of the spectrum,

FemiHandbags champions individuality with vintage inspired designs and artisanal details. Founded by the visionary behind Lagos Leather Fair, the brand offers timeless, handcrafted pieces that reflect a deep commitment to craftsmanship and cultural legacy.

Toss Afrique leans into simplicity, pairing global standards with the warmth of African craftsmanship.

Ora Lagos tells stories through exotic leathers and timeless design, where luxury feels authentic and grounded.

Joellani walks a similar line, merging local sourcing with elevated aesthetics to redefine African luxury on a global scale.

Gbenga Artsmith, known for fine accessories and meticulous craftsmanship, exemplifies the blend of tradition and modernity that defines this year’s Fair.

Contemporary Creators and Modern Minimalists

There’s a growing wave of brands that infuse modern silhouettes with African artistry.  SÈKÏ walks the line between bold and practical with handbags that fuse aesthetics and functionality. Then there’s PẹrẹLei, whose ‘understated royal’ philosophy bridges Ijaw heritage with modern day refinement, all while operating as a white label manufacturer for leading names. Zeezabags, Januarybywande, Mak & Jay, Kieva Desuwa, Taylahandbags, and Nnluxe Bespoke round out a cadre of creators producing for the modern, style conscious customer who values quality just as much as design.

Rooted in Heritage, Handmade with Soul

Many of the exhibitors are driven by legacy, passing down skills, stories, and values through generations. Woyin Taylor, founded by sisters in honour of their grandmother, exemplifies family led craftsmanship with heirloom quality leather accessories. Obi Leather, Ohiole Lagos, The PIE LeatherCraft, and Ezigbo-leda continue to uphold Nigeria’s long standing leather traditions, each in their own unique way.

Chrisbek’s, Mona Matthews Ventures, and Moroks Xpression embody the refined elegance that comes from time tested techniques. Meanwhile, FootiezbyEva, one of the few indigenous brands using eco friendly materials since the 90s, continues to set standards for local production.

Statement Makers and Visionaries

For the bold and the expressive, this year’s Fair is a playground. Brands like Tevo Leather, Ora Lagos, and Joellani demonstrate that boldness can be both beautiful and ethical. Lareeyn, Moroks Xpression, and Teleolagos cater to those who seek character and elegance in every detail.

The Backbone of the Industry

Supporting the creatives are brands focused on infrastructure, manufacturing, and care. Winston Leather, a second generation manufacturer, continues to supply some of the world’s most iconic fashion houses, while remaining firmly committed to quality materials sourced from the continent. Fusion Leather, beyond being an exhibitor, serves as supplier to others. Freestones offers essential machinery and materials. Vocore functions both as a label and a manufacturer for others. Noblepad Ltd. adds value through premium bindery leather goods, while Tender Leather Care (TLC) offers restoration services for cherished leather items, drawing on techniques refined through international training.

Together, they ensure the ecosystem is sustainable, from design through delivery and preservation.

Lagos Leather Fair 2025 promises to be a celebration of identity, craft, and cultural power. Each brand brings something different to the table, be it heritage, innovation, or bold artistry but what unites them all is a belief in African excellence, expressed through leather.

As the fair approaches, we invite you to follow along with FashionEVO as we continue to spotlight the makers shaping the future of fashion on the continent. And stay tuned, we’ll soon be sharing an exclusive interview with Mrs. Femi Olayebi, the visionary founder of Lagos Leather Fair, as she reflects on this year’s theme and what it means to design for tomorrow.