At a Glance
- Ethiopian designers fuse tradition with modern fashion, gaining global recognition in luxury markets.
- Sustainability and fair trade drive Ethiopia’s fashion industry growth.
- Brands like Zaaf, Mafi Mafi, and Genet Collection lead Ethiopia’s cultural influence worldwide.
Ethiopia, long celebrated for its world-renowned coffee, ancient history, and breathtaking landscapes, is now making its mark on another global stage — fashion.
Over the past two decades, the country has steadily built a reputation as a rising hub of design innovation, sustainability, and cultural influence.
Ethiopian designers are increasingly being recognized on runways, in global publications, and across luxury markets, fusing heritage with contemporary style in ways that resonate beyond Africa.
At the heart of Ethiopia’s fashion movement is a generation of visionary designers who are blending traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetics.
From ethically sourced leather bags to handwoven textiles and couture pieces, their work reflects a balance of cultural preservation and global appeal.
This approach has not only elevated Ethiopian fashion but also positioned it as a driver of Africa’s expanding influence in the global luxury and lifestyle industry.
Unlike many fast-fashion markets, Ethiopia’s designers emphasize sustainability, fair trade, and craftsmanship.
Artisans work with natural fibers, recycled materials, and centuries-old weaving and embroidery techniques, creating timeless pieces that align with the growing demand for ethical and environmentally conscious fashion.
With international recognition from outlets such as Vogue, Forbes, and CNN, Ethiopian brands are proving that fashion rooted in tradition can compete on a global scale.
In commemoration of Ethiopia’s Patriots’ Victory Day, we spotlight ten influential Ethiopian fashion houses and designers — both established and emerging — that are redefining how the world views African style.
These brands embody resilience, creativity, and purpose, shaping not only Ethiopia’s identity but also global fashion trends.
Mafi Mafi
Founded in 2011 by creative director Mahlet Afework, Mafi Mafi is renowned for its sustainable approach to fashion.
Afework, who transitioned from music to design after identifying a creative gap in Ethiopia, has won accolades including the Creative Futures Award in 2017 and the Origin Africa Design Award in 2012.
Her work, featured in Forbes Africa and CNN, combines modern silhouettes with traditional Ethiopian textiles, offering a unique blend of heritage and innovation.
Zaaf Collection
Established by Abai Schulze, Zaaf Collection collaborates with Ethiopian artisans to create luxury leather goods such as handbags, shoes, and wallets.
Using indigenous materials and traditional techniques, the brand has captured international attention with features in Vogue, Elle, and Forbes.
Each piece tells a cultural story while appealing to global luxury consumers who value craftsmanship and exclusivity.
Genet Collection
A pioneer in Ethiopian fashion, Genet Kebede founded her brand in 1992 after studying design in Italy and Argentina.
Originally named Paradise Fashion and now known as Genet Collection, her designs showcase crisp, modern aesthetics deeply rooted in Ethiopian cultural identity.
With more than 30 years of experience, Kebede remains one of the country’s most respected creative forces.
Kunjina
Founded by Kunjina Tesfaye in 2017, this brand represents the boldness of Ethiopia’s new generation of designers.
Tesfaye, originally trained in construction economics before pursuing her true passion, delivers contemporary collections with distinctive modern silhouettes.
Her work has been highlighted by OkayAfrica and Getz Magazine, reinforcing her reputation as a rising star in African fashion.
Sabahar
A leader in ethical textiles, Sabahar produces handwoven home goods—ranging from shawls to linens—using natural fibers.
Founded in 2004 by Kathy Marshall, the brand provides sustainable employment for Ethiopian artisans while preserving the country’s weaving traditions.
With a strong fair-trade ethos, Sabahar is redefining ethical luxury in Africa.
Kabana Design
Launched in 2017 by Semhal Guesh, Kabana Design creates leather goods with a strong social mission.
Beyond producing durable, stylish bags and belts, the brand empowers Ethiopian women by providing economic independence and career opportunities.
Guesh has been recognized by the UNDP and GEW for her entrepreneurial leadership.
Yefikir Designs
Founded by Fikirte Addis, Yefikir Designs blends contemporary fashion with Ethiopia’s rich heritage.
A psychologist by training and designer by passion, Fikirte has showcased her collections at Lagos Fashion Week, Caribbean Fashion Week, and the We Are Africa Fashion Spectacular.
Her designs reflect Ethiopia’s elegance while appealing to a global audience.
Root in Style
Established in 2015 by Tigist Seife, Root in Style creates eco-friendly leather bags sourced from local tanneries.
With sustainability at its core, the brand focuses on longevity and minimal waste.
Root in Style has won accolades such as the Bellaafricana Best African Brand Award (2018), highlighting its impact in ethical fashion.
Fozia Endrias
Designer Fozia Endrias is committed to timeless, sustainable fashion.
Her label uses natural fabrics and reworks scrap material into new garments, minimizing waste.
Endrias has showcased her collections at Afro Glam Fashion (2018) and Hub of Africa Fashion Week (2019), reinforcing her status as a forward-thinking Ethiopian designer.
Meron Addis Ababa
Meron Addis Ababa is a brand with a strong social mission.
With 80% of its workforce made up of women, the company empowers communities through leather craftsmanship training and employment.
Its designs, rooted in craftsmanship and social impact, have earned recognition as one of Ethiopia’s most impactful fashion houses.
Ethiopia’s fashion industry is no longer confined to local markets—it is steadily positioning itself on the global stage.
With designers blending cultural heritage, sustainability, and modern craftsmanship, the country is proving that African fashion has both economic and cultural power.
From luxury leather accessories to eco-conscious textiles, Ethiopia’s creative talent is setting new benchmarks in ethical luxury and innovative design.
As these brands continue to gain international recognition, they also serve a deeper purpose: preserving Ethiopia’s traditions while driving social and economic change.
By empowering artisans, promoting sustainability, and showcasing African identity, Ethiopia’s designers are reshaping the global fashion conversation.
In the years ahead, the world will not only look to Ethiopia for its history and coffee but also for its cutting-edge fashion influence.
