In the world of Ghanaian celebrities, sometimes, fame serves as a stepping stone to explore diverse creative ventures.
Among these endeavours, the fashion industry has witnessed an influx of renowned stars launching their own clothing lines, promising innovation and style that resonated with their devoted fan base.
Whilst some had theirs thriving, others didn’t, the unbalanced nature of the space has not deterred personalities like Salma Mumin and Serwaa Amihere from venturing into the space.
In February 2023, she launched her clothing line called Lure by Salma. Serwah Amihere also launched Office & Co, a brand for corporate women on Sunday, August 28, 2022.
READ MORE: Music Edition: We rated your favorite Ghanaian celebrities’ fashion choices from 0-10
Currently, the only celebrity brand that has enjoyed longevity in this space is Kofi Okyere Darko’s Nineteen57 Clothing line launched in 2013. In 2019, it was relaunched and continues to offer a range of clothing items for both men and women.
However, behind all this innovation and style, lies dreams that soared high, only to come crashing down.
We bring you some Ghanaian celebrities who started fashion brands that ultimately went defunct even before they could get popular.
1. Sark Collection by Sarkodie
This collection was launched in partnership with fashion entrepreneur, YAS at the Aphrodisiac Night Club on Saturday, April 27, 2013.
It consisted of t-shirts, sweatpants, sneakers, jumpers, baseball caps and belts which bear Sarkodie’s logo, face or both.
It was running low on sales and hence ran its products on a discount.
Whilst others believe its failure can be associated with low sales, some think it is due to mismanagement and debts.
2. Black Avenue Clothing by D Black
This clothing line was created in 2012 to design comfortable and affordable high-quality street gear for people between 10-40 who have embraced the rapper’s style.
It included sports jackets, t-shirts, vests, Polo shirts, fitted caps and sweatshirts.
3. FM by Fella Makafui
It was a clothing line that was launched with its own store in 2018. It had a range of ready-to-wear clothes.
The popularity it gathered was quick but declined day by day and in no time, disappeared without any notice.
4. J’Melo by John Dumelo
The actor-turned-entrepreneur launched his clothing line in early 2012. The collection includes jewellery, bags, hoodies, jeanswear and other clothing accessories.
In 2017, a branch was opened in Gambia.
5. Micci Belino by Mzbel
The brand name went viral when the musician mentioned at VGMA2011 that the dress she was in was from them. In July 2013, the statement became a reality as she opened a clothing shop at Sakaman. Nothing has been heard concerning the brand and its buzz died slowly and has completely faded.
6. Smooch by Deloris Frimpong-Manso
It was a fashion boutique that sold bags, shoes, hair and more. It had two branches; one in Mataheko and the other in Dzorwulu. Somewhere in April 2016, robbers broke into her Dzorwulu branch which was opened in 2012 and stole everything, leaving the place empty. The place was closed down over poor sales and tax headaches and turned into an office.
7. Konfidence by Confidence Haugen
The Big Brother Amplified housemate launched her Konfidence shoes, bags and accessories on Sunday, September, 16,2012. In 2013, Confidence was sued by Ghanaian designer, Makeba Boateng for infringing on her intellectual property rights. The brand is considered dormant as the last post on its Instagram page was November 20, 2014.
8. Kokui by Kokui Selormey
The TV presenter launched her fashion line in January 2018 to cater for plus-size women, making use of made-in-Ghana fabrics. The brand last posted in 2022 and the presenter has since quit sharing looks from the brand, opting for clothes from other designers.
9. Step App by Stephen Appiah
The former Ghanaian footballer launched his clothing line in late November 2007. The proceeds were to go into his foundation. After the release, the fashion brand ran into trouble.
10. PDO by Prince David Osei
The Ghanaian actor and movie producer released his fashion brand, P.D.O, code-named Snipperdee Wear in 2011. Over the years, the patronage locally was not encouraging. In an interview on Hitz FM in 2015, he disclosed that his clothing line was not for the Ghanaian market.
11. Meridian Clothing by Mugeez
Mugeez of R2Bees adds up to the number of Ghanaian celebrities who started fashion brands that have faded. He launched his designer line in 2014, focusing on stylish and beautiful loafers for men. It aimed to reflect the true Ghanaian lifestyle with fine craftsmanship but there are no signs of the brand online or Mugeez promoting the business by wearing pieces from the brand.
By Esther Aryee|3xtra.tv|Ghana