AAKS

In a small tranquil village in Ghana, hamlets scatter over the savannah as far as your eyes can see. A group of local artisan weavers sits under a huge baobab tree laughing away, on close inspection you see piles of colorful raffia, and in between the noise of chatter and laughter these women are hard at work. Their hands move so skilfully and with an innate knowledge tending to a craft that has been handed down by generations.

This craft is the art of weaving. Using skills and techniques that are unique to this part of Ghana, the craftsmanship is the foundation of AAKS. The bags are woven incorporating the use of raffia and finishing off with leather. It takes approximately one week to complete a handbag. This attests to our unwavering dedication to modern style and interpretations using traditional methods.

Made by hand each bag bears the fingerprints of the person who fashioned it.  We strive for beauty and individuality in each product and natural variations in texture and color form part of our designs.

While constantly experimenting with new materials all their handbags are made using ecologically harvested raffia from family farmers in Ghana. The use of natural fibers and emphasis on handcraft technique means each bag is unique. A sophisticated dyeing process is formulated in-house to create exclusive seasonal colors.

Akosua Afriyie-Kumi is a Ghanaian born that graduated from Kingston University London with a BA (hons) Fashion degree and amassed an impressive resume of fashion industry experience. From designer to co-owner of a fashion brand and now creative director of her own brand A A K S.

Currently based in Ghana, Akosua finds herself traveling to and throughout Europe and Africa; particularly Accra and London every few months to work with local artisans, experience the diverse culture of the continents, and discover new inspirations for her brand.

Since launching in 2014, A A K S has been shortlisted as an emerging designer from Africa by Vogue Italia, featured by Elle Decoration, Vogue, CNN, Forbes Woman Africa, Guardian UK, and many international publications.

Akosua now stocks her woven bag collections in 60 stores worldwide including Anthropologie, Urban Outfitters, Bloomingdales, and now also in Goshopia.