Meet the designer

Mutayo Ekiye's journey into the world of fashion and handbag design is a testament to her lifelong passion and dedication. Born in Austin, Texas, she spent her formative years in Nigeria, where she discovered her love for fashion. It was in her aunt's tailor shop that her fascination with the art of design took root. She observed the meticulous craftsmanship that went into creating various items, but it was handbags that truly captured her heart. Mutayo's innate talent and keen eye for design blossomed during these early experiences. At the age of 16, she and her family returned to the United States, where she continued her education, ultimately studying computer science in college. Her choice of major was driven by the intricate design processes she saw in the world of technology, which resonated with her experiences in fashion.

Mutayo's path took a defining turn during a vacation in Italy, a country renowned for its exceptional materials and craftsmanship. There, she sought to learn from an Italian handbag designer, immersing herself in the world of luxury handbags. It was during this eye-opening experience that she realized the stark contrast between Eurocentric mainstream designs and the underrepresentation of Afrocentric-inspired creations. This revelation became the catalyst for Mutayo's dream to start her own fashion brand, one that would bridge this divide and infuse the industry with the richness of Afrocentric design.

What sets Mutayo apart as a designer is her unwavering commitment to introducing high-end, authentic African-style luxury handbags to a market hungry for diversity and innovation. In a landscape dominated by a single perspective, she recognized the need for a broader spectrum of ideas, visions, and cultural influences. With determination and creativity as her driving forces, Mutayo embarked on a journey to bring her extraordinary brand to life. Today, her unique handbags continue to reflect her boundless creativity and passion for design, offering a fresh perspective and an infusion of Afrocentric elegance to the world of high-end fashion.