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About LAVIYE

LAVIYE was established in 2012 to inspire millennials in the diaspora to renew a sense of pride in their African culture. We wanted to create a channel for men & women to find confidence in self-expression, to be bold in their outfit choices and shameless about what they believe in!
 

Our MISSION

is to create a lifestyle brand that showcases the beauty of African fashion by merging vibrant African fabrics with ‘Western’ silhouettes to create the ‘African-meets-Western’ look. It is our goal to create a brand that encompasses all aspects of our daily lives – from casual clothing, to nightwear, gym wear to formal wear.
 
We offer clothing for millennials in the diaspora that are proud of their African heritage – people who love to make a statement and want to wear outfits that make people stare when they walk into a room.
 

Why LAVIYE?

We believe that wearing unique, well made, African inspired statement pieces don’t have to break the bank – neither should they be boring! There are more than enough plain/same old boring pieces all over the high street. Step into our world where its full of colour, but not just colour for the sake of it – colour that imbibes the richness of our culture! Patterns that have a meaning behind them and cuts that make you feel like the royalty you really are.

 

This is what #LAVIYE stands for.
Welcome to Our World.
#BlackOwned
#NigerianOwned

The Story Behind LAVIYE


Abiye’s Journey

Being of Nigerian heritage, Abiye has always had a love and fascination for African fashion - the prints, the versatility & the cultural significance. From dresses to skirts and tops, tailor-made African fashion was something she was regularly exposed to and a culture she proudly embraced. But from the age of 16, Abiye quickly noticed that there was a lack of ready-made, western-inspired designs when it came to the nature and accessibility of native wear. Years of depending on a tailor whenever there was a need for an event grew tiresome to both Abiye and a lot of her friends. It became clear that there was a common need for African wear that was modern, trendy, and most importantly within reach.

This need sparked a desire in Abiye’s heart to bridge the gap within African fashion and create a brand that capitulates both the beauty of African wear, whilst meeting the needs of African rooted/associated women. From this desire, LAVIYE was birthed in 2012, after Abiye decided to take a break from her Ph.D. to focus on her wellbeing. This gave more time to focus and nurture the uniqueness and message of the brand.

Starting small with African accessories, Abiye expanded her reach to womenswear and menswear. She takes great pride and joy in making LAVIYE a brand that connects home away from home - a luxury she wishes she had when she needed it.

 

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