See Accra Through Designer Mimi Plange’s Eyes
From the open air market that’s a must-visit, to the hand-woven baskets that are a must-buy, the fashion designer’s inspiration lies in the history of Ghana.
Though raised in Southern California, fashion designer Mimi Plange grew up immersed in the culture of her hometown: Accra. It was her mother’s photos from 1950s Ghana that first introduced Plange to fashion. "That’s how I fell in love with clothing and identity," she says. "I always wanted to showcase the real country that I experienced through these images in my designs." Her clothing mixes traditional African and modern influences, counting Rihanna and Michelle Obama as acolytes of its distinct cool.
Mimi Plange is Ghanian-born fashion designer from Southern California.
Photo by Emmanuel Andre
"Jewelry, beads, metals—especially gold—are some of the greatest works of wearable Ghanaian art. They showcase the craftsmanship of the country’s highly skilled artisans. When I was little, these were the gifts my mom would always bring from her trips to Accra. I would always feel like I had something super special and unique."
Illustration by Justine Wong
Get the Dwell Travel Newsletter
Start exploring far-flung design destinations, the newest boutique hotels, and well-designed bars and restaurants perfect for the modern jetsetter.
"I love spicy things—and pairing them with the finest ingredients in the world sounds like a win win situation to me. It’s wonderful to see Ghanaian artisans like Midunu’s creating their own truffles and sweets from home-grown cocoa, fruits, and spices."
Courtesy of Midunu Chocolates
"Accra has always been a modern town. It’s a city of design and authenticity. This platter by craft-led Studio Badge reflects that, as it’s a perfect blend of traditional and modern styles."
Courtesy of Studio Badge
"This local wine celebrates the metropolitan vibes of Accra. The bottles are designed beautifully, with flavor profiles celebrating Ghanaian produce, such as hibiscus, coffee, and cashews."
Illustration by Justine Wong
"I love going to bookstores in any country that I visit. In Accra, I purchased books on how to speak Twi—my native language—traditional recipe books, and nonfiction written by Ghanaian authors along with authors from the entire continent. The late Chinua Achebe, a Nigerian novelist and poet, was a dominant figure in modern African literature."
Courtesy of Penguin Random House
"The basket weavers of Ghana share stories of our culture in their designs. These baskets are made by the Gurunsi community in Bolgatanga, a remote town in the Upper East region of Ghana."
Courtesy of Goodee
"I first came across these flags many years ago when I was doing research for a collection. They tell stories of British influence and Ghanaian independence. They’re also collector items and reminders of the road that has led to modern-day Accra."
Courtesy of Asafo Flags
Accra
Where to Eat and Sleep: While nothing beats sleeping and eating at her mother’s house while in Accra, Mimi has several other favorite locales while in the city. For authentic and delicious Ghanaian food—including fufu, banku, jollof rice, and grilled, fresh-caught tilapia—she loves Ayiwa Ghana, a combined restaurant, gym, spa, and salon with live music. The best place to rest your head is the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel.
Where to Shop: The Makola Market is the best place to get incredible street food and shop traditional items like beads, shells, and fabrics. If being unique is your thing, there are plenty of seamstresses and local designers you can visit to create one-of-a-kind dresses and suits.
"The Makola market is the best place to get incredible street food and shop traditional items like beads, shells, and fabrics. There are plenty of seamstresses and local designers you can visit to create one of a kind dresses and suits if being unique is your thing."
Photo by Mwangi Kirubi
What to See and Do: If you’re feeling adventurous, Mimi recommends a day trip to Kakum National Park to do the Canopy Walk above the trees and animals. You can sleep in a treehouse while elephants walkthrough the thick wilderness below.
Kakum National Park Canopy Walk
"If you’re feeling adventurous, Mimi recommends a day trip to Kakum to do the Canopy Walk above the trees and animals. You can sleep in a treehouse while elephants walk through the thick wilderness below."
Photo by Ben Pipe Photography
Published