FemiHandbags
FemiHandbags is a Nigerian accessories brand founded by designer Femi Olayebi that makes handcrafted leather handbags and accessories. Its pieces are made in Ibadan and often incorporate aso-oke, a traditional Yoruba hand woven cloth.
| Founder | Femi Olayebi |
|---|---|
| Brand name since | 2010 |
| Atelier | Ibadan, Nigeria |
| Flagship | Lagos (2018) |
| Signature material | Leather with aso-oke |
| Website | femihandbags.com |
What is FemiHandbags?
FemiHandbags is a Nigerian leather goods brand founded by Femi Olayebi, a self taught handbag designer who originally trained as a translator. Its bags are made at her atelier in Ibadan.
History
Olayebi began making bags in 1992, starting with a nappy bag for her first daughter. Her company My World of Bags was registered later, and the leather line was relaunched under the FemiHandbags name in 2010 at the Pure London trade show. In 2018 the brand opened a flagship store in Lagos and showed at London Fashion Week.
Products and positioning
FemiHandbags offers bespoke, affordable luxury handbags and accessories in handcrafted leather with bold colour palettes. Many designs incorporate aso-oke, a hand loomed Yoruba textile. A separate line under My World of Bags produces conference bags, folders, totes and laptop sleeves for corporate clients.
Why it matters
Olayebi is a prominent advocate for Nigeria's leather industry. In 2017 she created the Lagos Leather Fair to promote local leather talent, and she has worked on training programmes for young Nigerians in leather crafting. The brand shows how African accessories labels can combine local craft and materials with an international positioning.
Frequently asked questions
Who founded FemiHandbags?
FemiHandbags was founded by Nigerian designer Femi Olayebi, who also created the Lagos Leather Fair.
Where are FemiHandbags made?
The bags are handcrafted at the brand's atelier in Ibadan, Nigeria.