Amaka Osakwe (born 1987) is a Nigerian fashion designer and founder of the globally recognized African-based fashion label Maki Oh. Since launching the womenswear label in 2010, she has led its creative direction from Lagos, Nigeria.
Life and Career
Osakwe is of Igbo heritage. She studied Fashion Studies at the Arts University Bournemouth in the United Kingdom, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree.
In autumn/winter 2010, she launched Maki Oh, a label known for blending traditional African textiles and cultural storytelling with contemporary Western silhouettes. One of her early collections was inspired by Ghana’s Dipo rites-of-passage ceremony, integrating themes of modesty, ornamentation, and cultural symbolism.
A hallmark of her designs is the innovative use of adire, a traditional Yoruba indigo-dyed fabric predominantly produced in Ogun and Osun States, southwestern Nigeria. Her unique designs often pair Western tailoring with African aesthetics, exemplified by pieces such as a lace blouse and pencil skirt appliquéd with raffia eyeballs.
Her international breakthrough came in 2012, when she showcased her collection at New York Fashion Week. Since then, Maki Oh has become a global fashion name.
Celebrity Endorsements
Osakwe's designs have been worn by a host of high-profile figures, including: - Michelle Obama, who wore a Maki Oh blouse during her 2013 Africa trip - Beyoncé - Rihanna - Solange Knowles - Kerry Washington - Lady Gaga - Issa Rae - Leelee Sobieski - Eku Edewor, Nigerian TV presenter
Her clothing is stocked internationally, including: - Farfetch.com - McMullen Boutique, Oakland, California
Recognition and Impact
- Named "Designer of the Year" by ARISE, an African fashion magazine
- Her work has been featured in exhibitions at:
- The Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT)
- Vitra Design Museum
- Brighton Museum & Art Gallery
External Links
- Official website of Maki Oh(https://www.maki-oh.com)