Anita Omofonma’s ISIANOLA merges rich African roots with luxurious craftsmanship, crafting bags that resonate with soul, heritage, and individuality.
In the quiet elegance of a Parisian afternoon, there is a calm confidence to Anita Omofonma, a woman who speaks with intention, laughs softly, and carries the self-assurance of someone who has rebuilt her dreams in more than one city. Behind the polished composure lies a designer who has spent years navigating the worlds of Lagos, Abuja, and Paris. Exploring tradition and modernity, intuition and structure — and she has now distilled all of that into her luxury leather brand, ISIANOLA.
Where many designers speak about aesthetics or trends, Anita speaks about memory, craftsmanship, personality, and the weight of cultural heritage. Her bags are not designed to be worn; they are designed to be felt — “soulful,” as she often describes them, objects that carry stories, history, and the quiet hum of home.
In this edit of The Woman Behind the Brand, Anita discusses the passion and vision fuelling her mission to redefine what intentional femininity looks like through her brand. Her journey is a deeply personal perspective that guides every creative choice she makes, reaffirming her belief that women deserve pieces that honour their spirit and individuality with sensitivity and brilliance.
The beginning: From Lagos streets to Paris ateliers
Anita, how would you describe the beginnings of your journey — from Lagos to Abuja, and eventually Paris?
I’ve always existed between multiple worlds. Growing up with Edo heritage, raised between Lagos and Abuja, taught me adaptability. After NYSC and working in Lagos for a short while, I knew I needed structured creative development, so I moved to Paris in 2017 for my master’s. That move shaped everything.
Before Paris, you had already explored entrepreneurship. What was that like?
I ran a clothing line in Nigeria for two years. Even after I paused it, I knew fashion was still my calling. Paris didn’t ignite the dream — it refined it. The industry exposed me to structure, technical precision, and the importance of craftsmanship.
When did you begin imagining a handbag brand?
Around five years ago. I kept sketching, refining designs, and building a vision. The sketches have existed for at least three or four years. I wanted to rebirth the Nigerian brand I’d started — but focused purely on leather, intention, and identity.
Behind the scenes of ISIANOLA: A brand born from identity
The name ISIANOLA feels intimate. How did you settle on it?
It comes from my middle names — Anita and Damilola — one from my Edo side, one from my Yoruba side. I wanted the brand to carry my identity, my mix of cultures, my story. ISIANOLA is me, quite literally.
What was it like bringing the brand to life in France?
France is incredibly structured — everything must be done precisely. Registering the brand here required rigour. Nigeria is flexible; you can make adjustments on the go. France does not allow that. But that structure aligns with the kind of brand I’m building.
You often talk about bridging African heritage with global luxury. What does that mean for ISIANOLA?
For a long time, there seemed to be two extremes in the market: either global luxury houses with impeccable craftsmanship, or African brands rich in heritage but not always aligned with global-level finishing. I wanted ISIANOLA to sit in the middle — culturally rooted but globally refined.
How do you weave African cultural elements into the brand?
Through symbolism — cowrie shells, fabrics, textures, colours. For example, the custom brass cowrie shell hardware symbolises memory, migration, and shared West African histories. These elements create a connection. When you see them, they remind you of home.
You were raised in Nigeria but moved to France to pursue a Master’s degree. How have both countries shaped your approach to building a brand?
France gave me structure, discipline, and predictability. Nigeria gave me the flexibility and creative speed I needed. I prefer France for precision, but Nigeria remains important for its energy and adaptability. Both worlds influence ISIANOLA in meaningful ways.
Into the ISIANOLA soul: Craftsmanship without compromise
Why did you choose to work with artisans in Italy?
Craftsmanship is at the heart of ISIANOLA. The atelier I work with in Naples has six artisans, including two master craftsmen with over 45 years of experience. Every part of the bag is Italian-made — leather, hardware, finishing.
Why insist on full Italian production when cheaper options exist?
I refuse to compromise. Luxury is intentional. Cutting corners contradicts the purpose of the brand. Everything must reflect precision and honesty.
Who do you imagine carrying an ISIANOLA bag?
A woman who loves art, culture, and beauty with depth. She’s thoughtful, expressive, and intentional. She buys pieces because they hold meaning, not because they are trending.
What do you want people to feel when they carry your bags?
A sense of connection — not just to the beauty of the piece, but to its soul. I want them to feel a sense of memory, heritage, and pride. When you carry ISIANOLA, you’re carrying intention.
Why did you limit each hero bag to only 100 pieces?
I’m building a collector tribe. Each piece is numbered; only those who truly connect with the brand should own the hero pieces. Scarcity is not elitism; it’s reverence for craftsmanship and soul.
Future of a brand with memory, meaning, and a modern African voice
What is your vision for ISIANOLA?
I want to build a brand that honours African identity the way global luxury houses honour theirs — with craftsmanship, emotional depth, and precision. I want ISIANOLA bags to feel like cultural artefacts.
Where do you see ISIANOLA in the next five years?
I’m excited and hope to have released at least four or five collections, and I envision creating a strong community of collectors who truly connect with the ISIANOLA brand. My goal is to cultivate dedicated brand lovers who want to collect our pieces, perhaps even in different colours, because they resonate with the craftsmanship and story behind each bag.
Additionally, I aim to partner with top international retailers. I want to share the essence of African and Nigerian culture with those who may not be familiar with it, drawing them in through the exceptional quality of our products and the compelling narratives we tell. My plan for the coming years is to focus on growth and scale, but without overextending the brand. I need to maintain control and ensure that ISIANOLA remains curated and special.
Get to know Anita
Three words that describe you?
Intentional, observant, and grounded.
What does a perfect creative day look like for you?
A quiet morning, soft music, my sketchbook, and uninterrupted time to think and create.
What is one thing most people don’t know about you?
I’m extremely observant — I notice small details about people, places, and objects. Those details often show up in my designs.
How would you describe your personal style?
Clean, feminine, effortless — pieces that feel thoughtful without being loud.
What is your go-to look?
I’m quite classic. So, I love wearing a lot of midi skirts and blouses. Not tops, but blouses. I really like blouses.
A dream for ISIANOLA in one line?
To create a world where African identity, soul, and craftsmanship coexist with global luxury standards.
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