Sima Brew, Kwaku Bediako, and Elikem Kumordzie are not just tailors like Generation X would say it or Ghanaian fashion designers like Gen Z—they are trendsetters, innovators, and storytellers who are shaping Ghana’s fashion industry in remarkable ways like their sister country Nigeria.
Each of them brings a unique style and perspective to their craft, but what they share is a deep love for their culture and an unwavering commitment to putting Ghanaian fashion on the global stage. Their journeys, their designs, and their impact tell a compelling story of how creativity can drive an industry and a country forward.
Sima Brew is a name synonymous with luxury and elegance. Her journey into the fashion world began in 2008, driven by a passion for creating timeless designs. Over the years, she has established herself as one of the leading Ghanaian fashion designers, celebrated for her ability to craft intricate, show-stopping pieces. Sima’s specialty lies in bridal couture and high-fashion gowns, and she’s often the go-to designer for weddings and glamorous events. Her work reflects a blend of tradition and modernity, with luxurious fabrics, intricate beading, and bold designs that capture the essence of her clients’ personalities.Sima has dressed some of the biggest names in Ghanaian entertainment, including Nana Ama McBrown, Jackie Appiah, and Joselyn Dumas. Her designs have graced red carpets at prestigious events like the Vodafone Ghana Music Awards and international film festivals. One of her recent projects was designing an exclusive bridal collection that showcased her evolution as a Ghanaian fashion designer, with each gown reflecting her impeccable craftsmanship and flair for storytelling through fashion.What sets Sima apart is her dedication to empowering others. She mentors upcoming designers, sharing her knowledge and experience to help them succeed. By doing this, she’s not only growing her brand but also nurturing the next generation of Ghanaian designers, ensuring the industry continues to thrive.Kwaku Bediako, the founder of Chocolate Clothing, is another powerhouse in Ghana’s fashion scene. He launched his brand in 2013 with a vision to redefine menswear in Ghana. Inspired by African heritage, Kwaku’s designs merge traditional elements with modern tailoring, creating pieces that are both stylish and meaningful. His work is sleek, understated, and effortlessly cool—perfect for men who want to make a statement without saying a word.Kwaku’s designs have caught the attention of global icons. He has dressed Idris Elba, Nigeria’s Burna Boy, and even Ghana’s President Nana Akufo-Addo. His creations have been showcased on international platforms, including London Fashion Week and African Fashion International Week, proving that African fashion is not just local but global.One of Kwaku’s recent projects was a collaboration with other African designers to create a collection celebrating African unity and identity. Through Chocolate Clothing, he continues to challenge stereotypes about African fashion, showing that it can be sophisticated, versatile, and globally relevant. His work has inspired many young designers to embrace their cultural heritage while exploring contemporary trends, contributing to a growing movement of Afrocentric design in Ghana.
Then there’s Elikem Kumordzie, popularly known as Elikem the Tailor, whose journey into fashion began in an unconventional way. After gaining fame on Big Brother Africa in 2013, Elikem used the platform to showcase his talent for tailoring. His bold, unapologetically African designs quickly made him a household name post BBA.Elikem’s work is vibrant, daring, and full of personality. He’s not afraid to mix colors, patterns, and textures in ways that turn heads. From bespoke suits to statement casual wear, his pieces are designed for people who want to stand out. Over the years, he’s dressed numerous celebrities, including Sarkodie, John Dumelo, and Zynnell Zuh, for major events.
Recently, Elikem launched a collection that pays homage to Ghana’s rich culture, featuring designs inspired by traditional kente patterns and local motifs. He’s also been working on a project to train young tailors, helping them refine their skills and build sustainable careers. For Elikem, fashion is not just about making clothes; it’s about empowering others and promoting Ghanaian craftsmanship on a global scale.
Together, Sima, Kwaku, and Elikem are shaping the fashion industry in Ghana in profound ways. They’re not just creating beautiful designs—they’re building a narrative around Ghanaian fashion that celebrates culture, innovation, and excellence. Their work has elevated the industry, drawing attention from international audiences and inspiring countless young designers to pursue their dreams.These Ghanaian fashion designers are also helping to change perceptions about African fashion. By incorporating elements of Ghanaian culture into their work, they’re showing the world that African fashion is diverse, sophisticated, and worthy of global recognition. Whether it’s Sima’s luxurious gowns, Kwaku’s sleek menswear, or Elikem’s bold statement pieces, their designs are proof that Ghanaian fashion is as innovative and world-class as any other.
Moreover, their recent projects highlight their forward-thinking approach. From Sima’s bridal collections to Kwaku’s collaborative designs and Elikem’s cultural homages, they’re constantly pushing boundaries and exploring new ideas. They’re not just keeping up with global trends—they’re setting them.
Beyond their individual achievements, these Ghanaian fashion designers are also contributing to the country’s economy. They’ve created jobs for tailors and artisans, and they’re helping to build a more robust fashion industry in Ghana. Their success stories are a testament to the power of hard work, creativity, and a deep connection to one’s roots.For aspiring Ghanaian fashion designers, Sima, Kwaku, and Elikem are living proof that it’s possible to turn passion into a thriving career. They’ve shown that with talent, determination, and a willingness to innovate, you can achieve great things. And for the rest of us, their work is a reminder of the beauty and richness of Ghanaian culture—a culture that deserves to be celebrated and shared with the world.
As these Ghanaian fashion designers continue to create, inspire, and innovate, these three designers are not just shaping Ghana’s fashion industry—they’re shaping its future. They’re showing the world what Ghanaian fashion is all about, and in doing so, they’re leaving a legacy that will inspire generations to come.
