Kumasi Fashion Week 2025 was anything but quiet. Sitting in the front row at this year’s show was a thrill in itself, even if I’d missed a few of the events leading up to the main runway night. Thankfully, social media made it easy to stay in the loop. From the lively kickoff party that brought together designers, models, and fashion lovers, to the Ultimate Fashion Seminar where top voices from fashion and beyond explored “Fashioning The Future: Innovation, Identity & Impact in African Fashion,” the week was packed with moments worth remembering. There was also an exhibition, an immersive fashion installation, and a graduate show that spotlighted fresh talent and bold ideas.

While the red carpet lacked some of the sparkle we’ve seen in previous years, the runway more than made up for it. It was a burst of color, confidence, and creativity, from eye-catching prints to statement pieces you’d actually want to wear. One of the best surprises? The strong focus on gender-inclusive fashion, with designers serving up memorable looks for men as well as women. Below, I’ve rounded up standout pieces from some of the designers that hit the runway, pieces we genuinely think deserve a spot in your wardrobe this season.  

DMB Studios

Ivorian fashion brand DMB Studios, founded by designer Cheick Doumbia, made its debut on the Kumasi Fashion Week 2025 runway and it did not disappoint. Known for its bold, statement-making denim pieces that effortlessly blend style with creativity, the brand brought a fresh, fearless energy to the show. Each look told its own story, rooted in innovation and pointing towards a more sustainable future in African fashion.

I’d honestly describe Cheick’s collection as wearable art. The craftsmanship, the structure, the way each piece moved, it all felt intentional and expressive. One outfit in particular caught my eye, a denim ensemble that was equal parts cool and casual, perfect for a late Saturday lunch with the girls. The kind of outfit that makes you pause for a photo because, yes, it’s that good. Instagram-worthy, statement-making, and unapologetically stylish.

Doffeah

An emerging fashion label founded by designer Eric Adomako, this brand is steadily gaining recognition for its craftsmanship, elevated prêt-à-porter pieces, and commitment to sustainability. Making its debut on the Kumasi Fashion Week runway this year, Eric’s collection stood out for its effortless blend of simplicity and impact, pieces that played with color, structure, and texture in a way that felt both thoughtful and fresh.I’d describe the collection as a well-rounded wardrobe for both women and men, with something for every kind of moment from the office to casual daytime outings, and even those special evening events. Two looks in particular caught my eye: a striking cobalt blue dress that’s perfect for a Monday morning meeting, giving off that confident bosschick energy; and a clean, understated denim ensemble that’s ideal for a laid-back afternoon with the boys. Each outfit carried its own quiet confidence, with color doing a lot of the storytelling.

Groomsmen GH

Groomsmen GH, a Kumasi-based fashion brand, has built a strong reputation for its sharp, ready-to-wear pieces that appeal not just to local clients, but to a growing global audience as well. Regulars on the Kumasi Fashion Week runway, the brand returned this year with a collection that was both refined and striking proof that simplicity doesn’t have to mean playing it safe.

This latest showcase felt like a stylish tribute to the traditional wedding party. Think coordinated sets in rich colours, clean tailoring, and intricate embroidery that added just the right amount of flair. Whether you’re the groom, the best man, or the effortlessly cool guest hoping to make an entrance, there was something here for you. A standout look? The crisp white Agbada set, elegant, confident, and undeniably show-stealing.

JasmineAfrik

A Nigerian-based fashion brand known for its exclusive bespoke and ready-to-wear pieces made a strong impression with its debut at Kumasi Fashion Week. The brand is celebrated for blending traditional elements with contemporary silhouettes, and this runway moment was no different. Each look carried the weight of cultural pride while feeling fresh, wearable, and undeniably stylish. It wasn’t just about showcasing heritage, it was about reimagining it for the modern woman.

Watching their designs glide down the runway felt like a masterclass in self-expression and elegance. What I like to call the true definition of “rich aunty vibes.” The standout for me? A colourful yet ultra-chic ensemble that immediately said “wedding guest goals” or maybe even “sister of the bride with all the sauce.” It was bold, joyful, and confident, the kind of look that turns heads and starts conversations.

Kayadua

A ready-to-wear fashion brand known for its contemporary designs, this label blends colourful traditional African textiles with modern silhouettes to create timeless pieces rooted in cultural heritage. Making their debut on the Kumasi Fashion Week runway, they lit up the catwalk with a vibrant collection full of bold colour and ethically made garments that spoke of both sophistication and strength. It was clear they weren’t just showcasing clothes, they were celebrating identity.

I’d describe the collection as made for the modern traditional girl, the one who loves her roots but isn’t afraid to remix them. The standout piece for me? A fiery red top and matching skirt that gave serious ’90s vibes, but with a fresh, contemporary twist. It’s the kind of look that turns heads and earns double taps. A perfect pick for that special event where you want to show up and show out.

Poku Essence

An emerging brand based in Kumasi, showcased under the Next Generation Designers category at Kumasi Fashion Week, made a strong and lasting impression with its debut collection. Designed with Gen Z in mind, what I like to call “Gen Z lovers” the collection struck a perfect balance between calm, elegance, and effortless cool. It catered beautifully to both men and women, offering pieces that felt refined without trying too hard.

It was one of those collections where choosing a favorite felt nearly impossible. But if I had to pick, the standout looks for me were the denim sets, one for men and one for women. They had this relaxed yet polished vibe that made them ideal for a semi-casual event. Think laid-back, but elevated enough to turn heads.

Written by Thelma Anowaa Quainoo