We are seeing a significant change in what luxury means. We are moving past the idea that design is only for fancy galleries or red carpets. Now, the most critical design ideas are evident in the things we use every day: the bags that carry our belongings, the wallets that keep us organised, and the accessories that reflect who we are. Today, functional realism is transforming everyday items into thoughtful works of art. A bag from a brand like Cuyana or Polène is no longer just something to hold your stuff; it is a strong partner in your daily routine, made to keep up with a busy, modern life.
At Omiren Styles, we believe that the real beauty of an object lies not in how shiny it looks at first glance, but in how useful it is and how well it fits into your life. This means picking items that are strong, comfortable for everyone to use, and feel connected to the person who made them. Whether it is a sturdy tote by Brandon Blackwood made for a long day or a simple leather pouch from Shinola that gets more beautiful with time, the goal is simple: to fill our lives with things that are as tough, stylish, and welcoming as the women who use them. We are choosing real, practical design over fashion that is just for show.
Design isn’t just for the runway: it’s for the commute, the cafe, and the boardroom. Discover why “everyday objects” are the new frontier of inclusive, sustainable fashion and how your favourite bag became a soulful design statement.
The Integrity of the Daily Carry
Sustainability today is no longer a separate category; it is the basic standard for good design. We are seeing a rise in the use of honest materials, choosing leathers and fabrics made to last, not be thrown away. This is the best way to be sustainable: buying an accessory from a brand like AAKS, which uses handmade raffia, or Zashadu, known for its strong, high-quality materials that can last for ten years. The “lived-in” look isn’t a flaw; it’s a soulful record of your journey, making your everyday objects uniquely yours.
Inclusiveness is the driving force behind this new durability. Modern design now focuses on creating accessories that fit different bodies and lifestyles. From the colourful, comfortable shapes of Bushai Weave to the easy-to-use hardware found in Okapi’s handmade collections, these pieces are made to make your day easier. By supporting African-led labels like Hamaji, which uses plant-based dyes and inclusive craft, we highlight the human side of fashion. At Omiren Styles, we support this mix of ethics and usefulness, showing that the most stylish choice is always the one that lasts.
Furthermore, brands like Shekudo are changing the accessory world by combining traditional Aso Oke fabrics with modern leatherwork, ensuring that “everyday objects” have both cultural meaning and strength. This promise of lasting quality means your bag isn’t just something you buy for one season; it’s a valuable piece that supports local makers while fitting into a global wardrobe. Whether it’s the bold, unisex shapes from Project Dyad or the recycled brass details from Adele Dejak, they convey a clear message: true luxury is inclusive, handmade, and designed to last.
The Soul of the Sequence
Every time you reach for your bag, you are following a personal routine, a set of thoughtful actions that link you to the story of the item. We are moving away from throwaway fashion and choosing a deeper connection with skilled work that respects the maker’s path. When a brand like Anima Iris or Khokho creates a piece of true quality, it turns a simple need into a highlight of your daily life. Khokho, for example, uses local lutindzi grass woven by skilled women in Eswatini, making sure your everyday bag is a shared piece of living history.
This is why the architecture of use is so vital. We are choosing products that fit into our real, everyday lives, from the bold, geometric shapes of Marté Egele to the unique hand-dyed adire prints from Maki Oh. By choosing strong, simple, and practical designs from African experts such as Lukhanyo Mdingi, who focuses on creativity and honest materials, we are creating a lifestyle that values real quality over mere appearance. At Omiren Styles, we believe the things you use most should be the most carefully designed items you own, connecting your personal background with your modern, stylish life.
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The Daily Artefact
The last part of this design approach is the shift toward conscious minimalism. We are learning that a “statement piece” does not have to be bold; it simply needs to be chosen intentionally. This is where your life connects with the things you carry. By choosing accessories with simple shapes and high-quality materials, you convey a sense of calm and elegance. It is about removing what is not needed to reveal the true heart of the object, ensuring that what you carry every day reflects a life with meaning.
This careful choice is evident in brands like Project Dyad, which makes bags with simple shapes that work for anyone and that break away from the usual styles. Their work is a strong example of enduring design, demonstrating that something can be both creative and highly useful in busy city life. When you carry something made with such care, you are not just wearing an accessory; you are joining a bigger conversation about what it means to be a thoughtful shopper today. It is about the “real glow” that comes from knowing your favourite bag was made to respect both you and the environment.
At Omiren Styles, we advocate for this bridge. We support this mix of beautiful design and caring values. We imagine a world where everyday things, like a recycled brass earring from Adele Dejak or a hand-sewn leather tote, are the best kind of luxury. These items remind us that design can help us connect, feel stronger, and last a long time. By choosing these meaningful African brands, we make sure our daily lives are built on quality, fairness, and lasting style.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the things we choose to carry quietly tell the story of our daily lives. We are moving toward a future where “everyday” does not mean “ordinary”, but rather a chance to excel. By focusing on what goes into our daily items, we choose products that are more than just lovely to look at; they connect us to skilled makers around the world and demonstrate our commitment to selecting items that last and are sustainable. When you carry a bag from an African-led brand like Zashadu or Project Dyad, you are not just carrying a product; you are holding a piece of design that is part of your story and cares for the earth.
At Omiren Styles, we believe the best choice is one that respects people. Real luxury lies in the special feeling of an item that grows with you, helps you every day, and reflects what you care about. As you build your own collection of daily items, remember that the most beautiful designs are the ones that fit your life. Honour the people who made them. The result is the new standard of fashion: welcoming, meaningful, and made to last.
Your everyday carry should be a partner, not a burden. To explore our curated selection of soulful, durable, and inclusive pieces designed for the modern woman, visit Omiren Styles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- What defines an accessory as “inclusive” in design?
Inclusive design means the object is built to serve everyone. This includes adjustable ergonomics for different body types, lightweight materials to reduce physical strain, and intuitive layouts that accommodate various physical needs and busy daily routines.
- Why is “Material Honesty” essential for sustainability?
It’s a move toward transparency, with brands like Zashadu using natural, high-quality materials that age gracefully rather than synthetic materials that peel. A bag that develops a patina is more sustainable and soulful because it is built to be kept, not replaced.
- How do African brands embody “Humanistic Luxury”?
Labels like AAKS and Khokho focus on the human connection, using handcrafted techniques that support local communities. This creates a “real glow” that comes from knowing your accessory was made with respect for the artisan and the environment.
- Can a simple, everyday bag really be a design statement?
Absolutely. Choosing a well-crafted, sustainable piece from a brand like Project Dyad shows a commitment to intentionality. In a world of fast fashion, carrying a durable and inclusive artefact is the trendiest statement you can make.
