About us

Since its inception in 2012, Ọ̀GBẸ́NI MMXII has emerged as a trailblazer in Nigerian and global fashion, setting standards that blend rich African heritage with contemporary urban flair. Founded by Mosimileoluwa Aliu, the brand has grown from its early days as Grantez Shoes & Apparels into a full-fledged fashion house that offers an expansive range of custom traditional wear, urban apparel, shoes, bags, and a host of other fashion-forward items.

The brand’s transformation over the years is captured in its name, Ọ̀GBẸ́NI, which is a title that speaks to cultural pride and authority, while MMXII, the Roman numeral for 2012, signifies the year the company was birthed. This combination reflects the brand’s ethos—honoring tradition while stepping boldly into the future.

A Vision for Fashion Beyond Borders

Ọ̀GBẸ́NI MMXII has made significant strides in establishing itself not only as a leading Nigerian fashion brand but also as an international force. The brand’s core value—“to improve the sense of style through out-of-the-box innovations”—is evident in its diverse collections, which have gained attention across Africa and beyond. With a client roster that includes A-list celebrities like Skales, Bovi, Yemi Blaq, and Yemi Solade, Ọ̀GBẸ́NI MMXII has positioned itself as a go-to brand for individuals who want their clothing to tell a story—about who they are, where they come from, and where they are headed.

By constantly merging traditional African aesthetics with global fashion trends, Ọ̀GBẸ́NI MMXII speaks to a new generation of fashion lovers, both within Nigeria and internationally. The brand’s appeal goes beyond just clothing; it’s about wearing art that symbolizes heritage, culture, and identity in a modern context.

Cultural Impact and Storytelling Through Fashion

One of the most compelling aspects of Ọ̀GBẸ́NI MMXII is its dedication to celebrating Nigerian arts and culture through fashion. This is seen in the C’est Lagos x Èkó Àkéte collection, an ode to the rich heritage and urban spirit of Lagos. This collection incorporates fabrics like denim, Ankara, polyester, and cotton—each with its own cultural significance and environmental benefits. The fusion of these fabrics reflects the diverse identities and backgrounds of Lagosians, making the collection a visual representation of cultural diversity and unity.

Through its work, Ọ̀GBẸ́NI MMXII doesn’t just design clothes; it tells stories of Nigeria’s bustling urban life, its historical depth, and its cultural richness. By weaving tradition into contemporary designs, the brand plays a significant role in the revitalization of cultural pride within Nigeria’s fashion scene, inspiring a wave of younger designers to explore their roots through fashion.

International Recognition and Expansion

Ọ̀GBẸ́NI MMXII’s influence has extended beyond Nigeria’s borders, with its designs being sought after by fashion enthusiasts and cultural icons across Africa and the diaspora. The brand has showcased its collections on prestigious international stages across Africa, further solidifying its status as a leader in modern African fashion. The Urban Vibe Collection, launched in August 2023, is one such example of how the brand has captivated the international market. This collection fuses the laid-back cool of streetwear with high-end fashion, using baggy denims, vintage T-shirts, and carefully curated accessories to create a look that is both effortlessly stylish and deeply connected to urban culture.

The brand’s expansion has seen it tapping into global trends while staying true to its Nigerian roots. Mosimileoluwa Aliu, in a reflection on the inspiration behind the Urban Vibe Collection, mentioned that the collection was born out of requests from friends looking for stylish clothing that reminded them of home—pieces that they could wear proudly anywhere in the world. This global approach, combined with deep cultural respect, has helped Ọ̀GBẸ́NI MMXII bridge the gap between African heritage and modern fashion, while continuing to make waves on the international fashion stage.

Eco-Friendly Practices and Sustainability Commitment

A key pillar of Ọ̀GBẸ́NI MMXII’s brand philosophy is its commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices. In an era where fast fashion often dominates, Ọ̀GBẸ́NI MMXII stands out by prioritizing ethical sourcing, responsible production, and environmentally conscious design.

The brand has made significant strides toward integrating sustainable materials, like organic cotton and recycled polyester, into its collections. By opting for eco-friendly fabrics, Ọ̀GBẸ́NI MMXII not only reduces its environmental impact but also ensures that the clothing is durable, breathable, and comfortable—without compromising on style. Furthermore, the brand works with local artisans and suppliers who adhere to sustainable practices, fostering an ethical supply chain that supports the environment and local communities.

A prime example of this commitment is found in the C’est Lagos x Èkó Àkéte collection, where each fabric choice—from denim to Ankara—was selected with sustainability in mind. The brand takes into consideration the environmental benefits of each fabric, ensuring that their designs not only look good but are also responsible choices for the planet.

In addition to using sustainable materials, Ọ̀GBẸ́NI MMXII actively minimizes waste in its production process. The brand employs a made-to-order model for many of its custom pieces, reducing overproduction and ensuring that each garment is crafted with purpose. Any leftover fabric from production is repurposed into accessories like hats and bags, further reducing waste and contributing to the brand’s circular fashion approach.

Ọ̀GBẸ́NI MMXII also emphasizes the longevity of its products, creating high-quality, durable items that are designed to last. By encouraging customers to invest in timeless pieces rather than disposable fashion, the brand helps combat the culture of overconsumption while promoting sustainable fashion choices.

Commitment to Craftsmanship and Innovation

At the heart of Ọ̀GBẸ́NI MMXII’s success is its unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and attention to detail. The brand carefully selects fabrics that not only look good but are functional and sustainable. Whether it’s handcrafting shoes or creating limited-edition bags, each item is a reflection of the brand’s philosophy of merging luxury with cultural significance.

The brand’s dedication to innovation is further seen in its ability to blend different fashion styles—be it urban streetwear or classic traditional garments—into cohesive collections that resonate with a wide audience. The use of vibrant colors, bold patterns, and textures adds an element of excitement and freshness to every design. Each collection, from the nostalgic elements of C’est Lagos x Èkó Àkéte to the youthful spirit of Urban Vibe, reflects the brand’s forward-thinking nature while keeping cultural integrity intact.