Okapi’s core line launched in South Africa in early 2012, consisting of three timeless contemporary and classic styles that express elegant minimalism with an original edge.

South African Hanneli Rupert, came up with the concept of Okapi when working as a painter in Europe at the time. She then moved back to Africa to make her idea a reality.

Okapi was named after the exotic African antelope known as the “African Unicorn”, which their products’ signature talisman, the Springbok horn, has come to represent.

The ethos behind Okapi is to produce luxurious, artisan accessories handmade entirely in Africa from locally sourced materials. This creates sustainable job opportunities and skills growth on the continent.

Every element of an Okapi bag is 100% sourced in Africa, entirely traceable, sustainable and ethically sourced. 100% of the chains, horns, labels, leathers, lining and packaging is made and sourced in Southern Africa. All photography and production is also done locally.

Okapi bags take inspiration from the unique beauty of Africa and are designed to last a lifetime. As a company they do not believe in fast fashion, but rather in owning carefully selected pieces which will you will be able to customise and add on to over time. An Okapi bag is designed to grow with its owner in meaning and character over time.

2013 will see their international launch, the launch of their online boutique and an expansion of the range.

For more details please visit http://www.okapi.com/.