The Folklore: Promoting African Luxury Designers
The Folklore is an online store making luxury African designer brands accessible to people around the world. Featured by Forbes, Vogue, R29.
Project Description
The Folklore is an innovative online retail concept store and wholesale distribution agency based in New York City. The Folklore stocks top luxury and emerging menswear and womenswear designers from Africa and the diaspora, and serves as a cultural hub for contemporary brands, artists and creatives to showcase their personal stories.
Our carefully curated product-line reflects the diversity of Africa's contemporary urban landscapes and design aesthetic. We deliver apparel, accessories, shoes, bags, and homeware that can live in cities around the world, and be enjoyed by men and women who appreciate luxurious, thoughtful, clean and boundary-pushing design.Â
The Folklore was founded in March 2017 and by writer and creative entrepreneur, Amira Rasool. In the summer of 2017, Amira left her full-time job at V Magazine to move to Cape Town, South Africa, where she began working on The Folklore full-time. The skills and knowledge Amira absorbed while living abroad and freelance writing for distinguished media companies like Vogue, Teen Vogue, Glamour, and i-D Magazine has helped The Folklore reach significant heights and attract major press attention.
Since The Folklore launched in September 2018, the combination of goods and services provided by the company has helped enhance the visibility and financial success of Africa’s garment industry. It has also assisted with exposing a global customer base to exclusive designers and styles, many of which were previously unavailable to shop online or outside of Africa.
Follow The Folkore on Instagram to receive updates @ShopTheFolklore.
Thank you so much for supporting The Folklore and its mission to promote talented luxury African designers. Because of your support, we have the opportunity to continue expanding and bringing new and exclusive styles to customers around the world.
XOXO
Amira Rasool
Updates
The Campaign FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions:
Where does The Folklore's merchandise ship from?
Orders are shipped directly from our office in New York City straight to your front door.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes, we do. In addition to our speedy domestic delivery within the U.S., we also ship anywhere around the world. Our shipping partners guarantee quick, inexpensive, and convenient shipping. Find out more about international shipping here.
Can I make a custom order?
Customers may request a custom order for sold out items not available for pre-order by emailing [email protected]. The approval of custom orders is subject to each brands discretion and payment must be made once the brand confirms the custom order. Custom orders may not be returned or exchanged and may include higher shipping cost than usual.
What happens when I pre-order an item?
The option to pre-order merchandise is reserved for sold out items being restocked or exclusive specialty items not available for mass consumption. After selecting your pre-order item, customers will proceed through the normal checkout process where they will be informed of the orders anticipated ship date. Current web promotions or discounts cannot be applied to pre-orders. Pre-ordered items may not be returned or exchanged. Pre-order items typically arrive at your front door within 2-3 weeks and may not arrive in The Folklore's custom packaging.Â
What other goods can I custom order?
Because we have an established relationship with our designer partners, we are happy to facilitate custom orders for goods not available on our website. This may include items from a current collection that we may not carry, or a completely original, customized design tailored to fit your vision. When you place customer order requests through The Folklore, you will receive the same quality and timely service provided for general orders. Custom orders may not be returned or exchanged and may include higher than the usual shipping cost.
Do you sell gift cards?
Yes, because we know gift-giving is hard. Find out how to buy one here.
How can I get my brand stocked on the site?
If you are an African or African diasporic apparel, accessories, home, or beauty/grooming brand interested in having your brand stocked by The Folklore email your most recent line sheet and lookbook to [email protected]. Please keep in mind that we are highly selective about the design partners we select and may not get a chance to respond to each query.
Is The Folklore hiring?
We're not currently hiring any full-time team members but we're always looking for new freelance talent to collaborate with. Send us your details - [email protected].
Take 25% off of all of your future orders from The Folklore for two years. You will receive a unique 25% off discount code that you may use an unlimited amount of times within that two year period. Discount code may only be used by intended recipient for personal purchases.
Not looking to receive a reward but want to show your support for African brands and our wonderful 100% woman-owned and operated business? Well, thank you! We appreciate your support and wish you much peace and happiness!
You'll receive a special shout on our Instagram page and blog thanking you for your gracious contribution.Â
Enter for a chance to win 6 pairs of MaXhosa’s cult-favorite printed socks (valued at $150).
Enter for a chance to win one Simon and Mary Hat in any color and size of your choice (valued at $135).
Receive the opportunity to attend 3 workout classes hosted by New York City-based professional trainer and former D1 athlete, Corbin Booker. Join Corbin for 3 CBFIT group training classes and enjoy the experience of receiving a full-body workout. Classes offered 3 days a week in Harlem.
Receive a $100 gift card in return for your $100 contribution. Apply the gift card code towards your next purchase. That’s right, give $100 receive $100!
A 30 minute SEO + Digital Marketing coaching session with The Folklore's Digital Marketing Manager, Maya Haynie. Receive expert advice about search-engine-optimization, launching Google and social media ad campaigns, using Google analytics, and tracking the success of your marketing efforts. This is your opportunity to really learn how to grow your brand!
An in-house design consultation with multi-media artist, Emmanuel Harmon. Join Emmanuel (the man who designed The Folklore's amazing logo) at his creative studio in Brooklyn to go over your company's visual brand composition and identity, generate logo renderings, and learn the process of creating branded packaging and supplies.
Interested in investing in The Folklore more formally? Your $500 contribution will provide you with an exclusive invitation to learn more about and participate in The Folklore's very limited Friends & Family investment round.
An opportunity to have lunch with The Folklore's Founder and CEO, Amira Rasool, at an NYC restaurant to receive additional insight about The Folklore and Africa’s rising luxury fashion industry. Receive private fashion and media coaching from a season media figure who has contributed fashion and culture articles to Vogue, TIME, Teen Vogue, and over a dozen other publications. Learn how to position your brand to attract top media publications!
Every new business owner needs a proper press kit to successfully attract the right press and effectively promote their business. The Folklore's marketing team will put together a custom press kit for your business that outlines a clear and compelling brand narrative. Press kit will include a press release, one-page brand scope, and a curated list of media outreach suggestions.
Receive 2 invitations to The Folklore’s next private cocktail event featuring a special guest performer. Additionally, you'll receive 25% off of all of your future orders from The Folklore for two years, be entered for a chance to win 6 pairs of MaXhosa’s cult-favorite printed socks (valued at $150) and one Simon and Mary Military Fez Hat in any color and size of your choice (valued at $135).Â
One private styling session and photoshoot with items from The Folklore and your own personal wardrobe. The Folklore's Founder and Creative Director, Amira Rasool, will team up with the company's Digital Content Manager, Amandla Baraka, to source the location, HMUA, and props. You’ll be styled in up to 3 looks and receive 10 edited photos. Â
One private 5-hour shopping trip and styling session with The Folklore Founder and Creative Director, Amira Rasool. You’ll receive a 30-minute consultation call with Amira prior to the shopping trip and then a guided shopping session in NYC’s trendy Soho neighborhood. Amira will select items to help you achieve your style goals and prepare a select number of outfits for you. You’ll also have the opportunity to select 3 items from The Folklore’s curated gift list.
One private 8-hour shopping trip and styling session with The Folklore Founder and Creative Director, Amira Rasool. You’ll receive a 30-minute consultation call with Amira prior to the shopping trip and then a guided shopping session in NYC’s trendy Soho neighborhood. Amira will select items to help you achieve your style goals and prepare a select number of outfits for you. You’ll also have the opportunity to select 5 items from The Folklore’s curated gift list.
Your company will be listed as the official sponsor of one of our one-week pop-up shops. Your company's name and logo will be listed on all of our promotional materials shared via email and on social media to thousands of our followers. Your company may provide products or marketing materials for us to distribute at the pop-up shop. The company must compliment The Folklore's brand image, and funds may be returned if we determine that your brand is not the appropriate fit for sponsorship. Please email us to inquire about whether your company would be a great fit.
Rewards
Take 25% off of all of your future orders from The Folklore for two years. You will receive a unique 25% off discount code that you may use an unlimited amount of times within that two year period. Discount code may only be used by intended recipient for personal purchases.
Not looking to receive a reward but want to show your support for African brands and our wonderful 100% woman-owned and operated business? Well, thank you! We appreciate your support and wish you much peace and happiness!
You'll receive a special shout on our Instagram page and blog thanking you for your gracious contribution.Â
Enter for a chance to win 6 pairs of MaXhosa’s cult-favorite printed socks (valued at $150).
Enter for a chance to win one Simon and Mary Hat in any color and size of your choice (valued at $135).
Receive the opportunity to attend 3 workout classes hosted by New York City-based professional trainer and former D1 athlete, Corbin Booker. Join Corbin for 3 CBFIT group training classes and enjoy the experience of receiving a full-body workout. Classes offered 3 days a week in Harlem.
Receive a $100 gift card in return for your $100 contribution. Apply the gift card code towards your next purchase. That’s right, give $100 receive $100!
A 30 minute SEO + Digital Marketing coaching session with The Folklore's Digital Marketing Manager, Maya Haynie. Receive expert advice about search-engine-optimization, launching Google and social media ad campaigns, using Google analytics, and tracking the success of your marketing efforts. This is your opportunity to really learn how to grow your brand!
An in-house design consultation with multi-media artist, Emmanuel Harmon. Join Emmanuel (the man who designed The Folklore's amazing logo) at his creative studio in Brooklyn to go over your company's visual brand composition and identity, generate logo renderings, and learn the process of creating branded packaging and supplies.
Interested in investing in The Folklore more formally? Your $500 contribution will provide you with an exclusive invitation to learn more about and participate in The Folklore's very limited Friends & Family investment round.
An opportunity to have lunch with The Folklore's Founder and CEO, Amira Rasool, at an NYC restaurant to receive additional insight about The Folklore and Africa’s rising luxury fashion industry. Receive private fashion and media coaching from a season media figure who has contributed fashion and culture articles to Vogue, TIME, Teen Vogue, and over a dozen other publications. Learn how to position your brand to attract top media publications!
Every new business owner needs a proper press kit to successfully attract the right press and effectively promote their business. The Folklore's marketing team will put together a custom press kit for your business that outlines a clear and compelling brand narrative. Press kit will include a press release, one-page brand scope, and a curated list of media outreach suggestions.
Receive 2 invitations to The Folklore’s next private cocktail event featuring a special guest performer. Additionally, you'll receive 25% off of all of your future orders from The Folklore for two years, be entered for a chance to win 6 pairs of MaXhosa’s cult-favorite printed socks (valued at $150) and one Simon and Mary Military Fez Hat in any color and size of your choice (valued at $135).Â
One private styling session and photoshoot with items from The Folklore and your own personal wardrobe. The Folklore's Founder and Creative Director, Amira Rasool, will team up with the company's Digital Content Manager, Amandla Baraka, to source the location, HMUA, and props. You’ll be styled in up to 3 looks and receive 10 edited photos. Â
One private 5-hour shopping trip and styling session with The Folklore Founder and Creative Director, Amira Rasool. You’ll receive a 30-minute consultation call with Amira prior to the shopping trip and then a guided shopping session in NYC’s trendy Soho neighborhood. Amira will select items to help you achieve your style goals and prepare a select number of outfits for you. You’ll also have the opportunity to select 3 items from The Folklore’s curated gift list.
One private 8-hour shopping trip and styling session with The Folklore Founder and Creative Director, Amira Rasool. You’ll receive a 30-minute consultation call with Amira prior to the shopping trip and then a guided shopping session in NYC’s trendy Soho neighborhood. Amira will select items to help you achieve your style goals and prepare a select number of outfits for you. You’ll also have the opportunity to select 5 items from The Folklore’s curated gift list.
Your company will be listed as the official sponsor of one of our one-week pop-up shops. Your company's name and logo will be listed on all of our promotional materials shared via email and on social media to thousands of our followers. Your company may provide products or marketing materials for us to distribute at the pop-up shop. The company must compliment The Folklore's brand image, and funds may be returned if we determine that your brand is not the appropriate fit for sponsorship. Please email us to inquire about whether your company would be a great fit.