Life in Accra, Ghana’s capital, is a dynamic world Super city, with convenient social facilities, historic landmarks, and a particularly enticing array of eclectic festivals. However, its pulse is creative expression in harmony with culture, embodied in arts and crafts, music, culinary dishes and fashion. If you’re planning a visit to Accra, figuring out what to pack for your trip can seem daunting. But don’t be discouraged, as Accra’s prolific fashion scene may be the right motivator for traveling light. Follow Vogue to discover, in no particular order, the city’s hottest retail destinations and some hidden gems.
Long live
Banzai Store
Shopping in Accra has changed dramatically, thanks to the pioneering role of retailers like Viva Boutique. The multi-brand luxury retail store is located in the trendy Osu neighbourhood, bringing together international brands such as Bottega Veneta, Valentino, Dolce and Gabbana, Alberta Ferreti, Maxmara and more.
exist2018 Viva opens Viva Concept Store Legon in the east offering a curated compilation of its iconic international brands as well as famous African designers such as Duaba Serwa, Dye lab, Melange by Pistis, Tiffany Amber and Obida. They also stock a curated selection of home decor, skincare and their in-house beauty brand SO Aesthetic. The Viva boutique and Viva concept store are set against a backdrop of understated and tasteful decor that is sure to impress you. Rakuten
Lotte is located along the turnaround road at Camp Phuket and consists of two floors of retail space separated. It is the largest luxury retail concept store in Accra by size and
Various commodity. Rakuten’s mission is to promote artistic expression in fashion, art and sustainable design, it’s unequivocal. As such, it only has homegrown and expatriate African luxury giants such as David Tlale, Thebe Magugu, Andrea Iyamah, Christie Brown, Torlowi, Loza Molaembho, Titi Adesa and beauty brands Charlotte Mensah, R&R Luxury, Dabota Cosmetics and ByAdel. A collection of evocative arts and crafts highlights the retail experience. At Rakuten, you can discover curated pop-up stores, face-to-face consultations with prominent African designers and a range of signature events in Accra.
The Shop Accra by Eyetsa
The Shop Accra is a one-of-a-kind experience. Located in a quieter neighbourhood of Osu, The Shop Accra stocks a wide range of indigenous African textiles such as Bogolanfini (mud cloth), Kente and indigo dyed Adire cloth. It has a collection of quirky slogan tees like the classic “Make Fufu, not War” that will make anyone laugh out loud. The store also stocks a variety of skin care products, scented candles, beaded bags, sculptures, books and a variety of curios. If you get tired while shopping, the kitchen bar is always on call.
Elle Lokko Tropics and Modern
Elle Lokko has cleverly created a Chic contemporary African aesthetic. An offshoot of its parent brand (Lokko House), created for the modern woman (Elle), it is a curated window into African luxury fashion, beauty and accessories brands. The store is housed in a colonial mansion in Accra Osu, with baroque baseboards, antique furniture and walls evoking a
nostalgia th – century frescoes. Soothing indie music highlights the Elle Lokko experience. A range of unique, versatile and high-quality products that testify to the discerning taste of founder Stefania Manfreda. Elle Lokko is a strong contender in Accra’s progressive retail sector.
NuAfropolitan
If Your shopping needs are not limited to clothing, but also household items, and NuAfropolitan is a great choice. NuAfropolitan is a full-service design studio specializing in contemporary furniture and product design with a unique African-inspired aesthetic. Founded by University of the Arts London alumni Jewel Arthur, NuAfropolitan is the gold standard for excellence in craftsmanship, sustainability and creative cultural expression, embodying true African luxury. For sale are the brand’s signature root table, a rattan and raffia dining table set in quirky Hulk green, sunglasses with ostrich feather detailing, a shell necklace and a feature lamp made from recycled paper. If you’re hanging around the Galleria, don’t miss your chance to see a pop-up.
Wild Gecko
Wild Gecko can serve as your one-stop shop for chic ethnic looks and traditional accessories; their wide variety of reasonably priced artifacts and convenient location set them apart. In fact, a visit to Wild Gecko or a famous arts center might already be on your bucket list if you’re part of a tour group that’s being looked after by a local guide. In case you don’t catch some artifacts while you’re in town, Wild Gecko is on hand in the duty-free shopping area when you set off.
Custom Experience
Besides concept stores, bespoke experiences are an integral part of shopping in Accra. Accra is also home to many prolific designers, some of whom you may encounter in the workshops of the aforementioned stores. They are affable and may personalize your shopping experience if you book in advance. Here are some suggestions if you want to further explore the city’s fashion scene.
2018
Visit Ophelia Crossland in Osu for a dizzying fashion look. Duaba Serwaa’s studio in East Legon is one of Accra’s best-kept secrets. Kwaku Bediako’s Chocolate Global in Kempinski Gallaria is a luxurious destination in the heart of avant-garde Africa. In the company of Ghanaian fashion celebrity Kwesi Nti and his classic tailoring, you’re sure to fall for it. Ethical fashion brand Larry Jay is another favorite, and don’t forget the immersive flagship store of streetwear brand Free The Youth. While you’re in Accra Mall, stop by the curated Kiki Clothing Store and Woodin Store. With these things at your fingertips, you have every reason to look your best for your events in Accra and beyond.
