Luxury fashion label Okapi Africa is celebrating the collaborative spirit of African design with a new collection of apparel and accessories for their Art of Collaboration campaign. The concept highlights the rich creativity, diversity, and unity of the continent while platforming a diverse group of African and international luxury brands.
More about Okapi Africa’s Art of Collaboration campaign
As part of this campaign, Okapi Africa unveiled a new range that expands on the brand’s endlessly collaborative repertoire. Known primarily for its luxury leather accessories, the new collection also features knitwear apparel as well as new bag designs, crafted in collaboration with local artisans that specialise in their respective disciplines.
From beaded shawls that demonstrate the intricate artistry of Monkeybiz, to felted pieces created with the expertise of textile designer Stephanie Bentum, and a range of sumptuous knits ethically crafted using the finest South African merino wool from Gerber and Co.
The artisans themselves are deeply invested in cultural heritage, harnessing the legacy of craftsmanship from the continent.
Redefining modern African luxury
“This is a story about what luxury means now and to us – something that we as Okapi Africa have embodied since inception. A union of creativity and craftsmanship, that tells a deeper story,” says Jeanine Benjamin, CEO of Okapi Africa.
Founded by couturier Stephen Van Eeden, who has described it as ‘a movement’, The Art of Collaboration 2024 represents a ‘new era of luxury collaboration where the boundaries between art, fashion, and culture are blurred to create something truly unique. It is a testament to the fact that when creative minds come together, the result is nothing short of extraordinary’.
This goal of creating something extraordinary aligns seamlessly with the Okapi Africa ethos. A brand founded to showcase the skill of leathercraft using uniquely African materials, it has creativity woven into its very fabric.
Behind the Art of Collaboration visual campaign
The visuals for The Art of Collaboration 2024 campaign were captured in Marrakech and brought to life by the ‘muse’ of the campaign Melissa Nayimuli. Melissa is a Miss South Africa 2023 finalist and a rising star in the creative production realm – making it a true representation of the whole being greater than the sum of its parts.
Where to shop the collection
Where: Shop Okapi Africa at their concept store housed at Antonij Rupert Wyne in Franschhoek, or Merchants on Long boutique in Long street, Cape Town
Website: okapi.com
Email: info@okapi.com
Facebook: @okapiluxury
Instagram: @okapi.africa
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