Profile
Besida
Besida is a colorful womenswear brand distinguished by its Afrocentric flair. The Atlanta based builds passionate connections to African culture with their range of original designs including dresses, skirts, blouses, and our signature FourMidable… Besida is a colorful womenswear brand distinguished by its Afrocentric flair. The Atlanta based builds passionate connections to African culture with their range of original designs including dresses, skirts, blouses, and our signature FourMidable that can be worn as three blouses and a skirt.
Sophia Danner-Okotie
Our Story
I launched Besida after I struggled with trying to find clothing that represented my identity as a Black woman in America. I wanted to wear bold African prints like the ones I wore while growing up in Nigeria. They were not readily available in U.S.… I launched Besida after I struggled with trying to find clothing that represented my identity as a Black woman in America. I wanted to wear bold African prints like the ones I wore while growing up in Nigeria. They were not readily available in U.S. stores. I'd either have to ship them in or customize a design. All of these options were pricey. During a trip to Nigeria, I contracted a tailor to create a collection for me in various sizes, and that's when Besida was born. We now have a workshop in my hometown Benin City, where all of our garments are made in-house. Besida is produced ethically and sustainably. We're proud to pay our tailors and artisans above living wages in a country that under pays the labor force. I recently received recognition as a Forbes 30 under 30 honoree.
