Alex Rose-Innes
What is it with women and handbags? A deeply philosophical answer would probably touch on the “mother-hen” side of females who need to put half her house in a bag when going somewhere with children. But, at the bottom of all this, women know that a beautiful handbag could enhance any outfit.
Akosua Afriyie-Kumi from Ghana in Africa tapped into this very important accessory preference and today, her bags are seen on the catwalks of the world, especially as they are sustainable and their production does not harm the environment. She boasts a large national and international following, despite the fact that she started her business only six years ago. But, already it is as popular as the top fashion brands and stocked in the most prestigious shops across the globe.
The unique raffia bags also provide a regular income for many women at a co-operative in Northern Ghana. It is luxurious and the fact that the crafting uses ancient traditions makes it a bespoke product and the world had taken notice.
With her brand, known as AAKS, (after her initials), Akosua had been changing the face of African fashion. This talented and enterprising young woman had studied under some of London’s top designers, but brought her lessons and vision back to her own people in Ghana.
The women involved in AAKS production, create one-of-a-kind bags with craftsmanship regarded as the main ingredient. Taking an entire week to produce one bag and using techniques never seen outside Ghana, AAKS is successfully pairing traditional methods with most modern styles. It carries a signature tag of the weaver to prove authenticity. With each weaver using an individual style, it would forever bear a signature of the possibilities of the African continent.
AAKS had provided another global window to the Ghanaian textile and fashion industries in a country which is also making huge inroads into the world’s scientific and environmental industries.
The first handbag was finished four years ago and Akosua’s products had since been featured in top fashion and glamour magazines across the world and her collections are sold in 20 countries with 70 stores, among them the prestigious Bloomingdale’s in the UK. The products are shipped free of charge. The new 2020 Spring/Summer collection can be seen on www.aaksonline.com
