17 Brands Like Idioma for Unique Cultural Fashion

Discover brands like Idioma for unique cultural fashion - explore bold prints, traditional motifs, and handcrafted details that tell a story with every piece.
Written by: 
Ash Read
Last updated: 

There's a special kind of magic in wearing something that tells a story, and Idioma nails that feeling perfectly. Known for its vibrant mix of traditional motifs and modern style, the brand is a favorite for anyone who loves fashion with cultural depth, bold prints, and beautiful handcrafted details.

If your closet is full of Idioma's statement pieces or you're just looking to discover more brands with that same unique, culturally rich energy, you're in the right place. Here are 17 similar brands that celebrate heritage with stunning, contemporary designs.

1. Dholé

Dholé brings modern African-inspired fashion to the forefront by blending traditional textiles with chic, urban silhouettes. They are known for their unapologetically bold prints and eco-friendly materials, showcased in everything from flowy maxi dresses to statement accessories. While Idioma pulls from a global palette of cultural inspiration, Dholé goes deep into African heritage.

What makes them stand out is their commitment to sustainable practices and artisanal techniques, making them a perfect pick for eco-conscious shoppers who crave authenticity. If you love Idioma's craftsmanship but want a closet with intentional, earth-friendly roots, Dholé is a perfect choice. Shop now at dholeclothing.com.

2. Kulture

Kulture fuses the comfort of streetwear with the vibrancy of African and Caribbean patterns for a youthful, edgy aesthetic. Think graphic hoodies, joggers, and accessories covered in bold cultural motifs. This brand is all about creating fashion that sends a message of cultural pride and empowerment, appealing to a diverse, style-savvy audience.

Unlike Idioma's more artisanal and embroidery-focused pieces, Kulture has a distinct urban vibe with a focus on graphic prints and powerful statements. They offer a more casual, everyday way to wear your heritage on your sleeve. Shop now at kultureworld.com.

3. The Folklore

The Folklore isn't just a brand, it's an expertly curated marketplace for discovering unique fashion from African, Middle Eastern, and Asian designers. They source amazing handcrafted clothing, jewelry, and home decor that celebrate diverse cultures with a modern, luxe touch. Their collection is filled with pieces featuring intricate embroidery, gorgeous beading, and stunning traditional textiles.

While Idioma creates its beautiful designs in-house, The Folklore provides a stage for multiple independent artisans, offering a wider view of global craftsmanship. If you love the handcrafted feel of Idioma but want something with even more artisanal exclusivity, The Folklore is like a treasure hunt for one-of-a-kind finds. Shop now at thefolklore.com.

4. Mayamiko

Born from a desire to combine style with social impact, Mayamiko is a sustainable, handmade brand inspired by African culture. Their pieces are made with eco-friendly fabrics and fair-trade practices, resulting in colorful dresses, skirts, and accessories that are both beautiful and ethical. Expect vibrant prints that are perfect for anyone looking to make a conscious style statement.

Compared to Idioma, Mayamiko places a stronger emphasis on its sustainable mission and ethical production. Both brands offer culturally rich fashion, but choosing Mayamiko means you're not just getting a stunning piece - you're supporting a business that prioritizes the planet and its people. Shop now at mayamikostore.com.

5. Amanita

Amanita is fashion that feels like joy. The brand combines African textiles with playful, contemporary designs, resulting in colorful skirts, tops, and accessories that are impossible not to smile in. They share Idioma's deep appreciation for cultural pride and craftsmanship but channel it into fun, easy-to-wear silhouettes perfect for brightening up your daily wardrobe.

Where Idioma might offer more intricate, embroidered statement pieces, Amanita’s focus is on effortless style brought to life with vibrant prints. It’s the perfect brand for when you want your clothes to reflect a cheerful, lively vibe without sacrificing cultural authenticity. Shop now at amanitacollective.com.

6. Sokoto

Focusing specifically on Nigerian-inspired fashion, Sokoto uses traditional fabrics like Ankara and Aso Ebi to create modern, on-trend pieces. Their collection ranges from structured dresses to vibrant skirts and accessories, all defined by the intricate patterns and bold colors that are signatures of West African style.

While Idioma explores a wider range of cultural influences, Sokoto's deep dive into Nigerian heritage gives its designs a distinct and powerful voice. If you admire Idioma's use of traditional textiles and are particularly drawn to West African aesthetics, Sokoto offers that specific vision with a contemporary twist. Shop now at sokotofashion.com.

7. LemLem

Founded by supermodel Liya Kebede, LemLem offers luxurious, ethically made clothing inspired by Kebede's native Ethiopia and the rich artisan traditions across East Africa. Their pieces, from flowing dresses to airy tunics, are known for their chic, relaxed silhouettes and beautiful handwoven details. The brand is a go-to for vacation wear that feels both effortless and special.

Both LemLem and Idioma tell cultural stories through fashion, but LemLem leans more towards breezy, resort-ready luxury with a strong sustainable mission. If your style is refined, relaxed, and internationally inspired, LemLem delivers pieces that feel as good to wear as they look. Shop now at lemlenewyork.com.

8. Mifuko

While Idioma is focused on your wardrobe, Mifuko brings that same dedication to cultural craftsmanship to your accessories and home. Renowned for its iconic "Kiondo" baskets handcrafted by artisans in Kenya, Mifuko blends traditional techniques with Scandinavian design sensibilities. Their jewelry line is equally stunning, featuring vibrant beadwork and natural materials.

Their pieces are the perfect complement to an outfit from Idioma. A beaded necklace or a colorful, handcrafted pouch from Mifuko adds an extra layer of authentic, artisanal flair to any look, all while supporting female artisans in rural communities. Shop now at mifuko.com.

9. Zuri

Zuri is famous for its simple-yet-impactful dresses that come in a dazzling array of bold African prints. Their core philosophy is making getting dressed easy, offering versatile pieces that can be worn as a dress, a jacket, or a tunic. The brand is dedicated to ethical production practices, working with fair-trade workshops to create its vibrant collections.

While Idioma plays with intricate embroidery and a mix of silhouettes, Zuri’s genius lies in its singular focus on creating the perfect, high-impact dress. Both brands celebrate cultural expression, but Zuri offers an accessible, ready-to-wear way to inject color and print into your everyday style. Shop now at zuri.co.

10. Kitenge

Kitenge shines a spotlight on the rich textile traditions of East Africa, using authentic Kitenge and Ankara fabrics to create eye-catching dresses, skirts, and even tailored shirts. Their collections are a celebration of pattern and color, taking traditional fabrics and styling them for contemporary, global wardrobes.

Similar to Idioma, Kitenge champions authentic craftsmanship and vibrant design. The main difference is Kitenge's deep focus on specific regional textiles, offering a truly immersive experience of East African culture through their bold patterns and traditional weaving techniques. Shop now at kitenge.com.

11. Nia

Nia creates modern, sustainable fashion that is deeply rooted in African textiles and craftsmanship without compromising on style. Their collections feature chic dresses, tops, and versatile separates that showcase traditional prints and beautiful embroidery. Each piece is thoughtfully designed to empower both the wearer and the maker.

Like Idioma, Nia understands the power of cultural pride expressed through clothing. However, Nia puts a much stronger emphasis on sustainability in its materials and production. It’s the perfect brand for anyone looking for that culturally-inspired aesthetic with an even more pronounced eco-conscious edge. Shop now at niaafrica.com.

12. Indego Africa

Indego Africa operates as a non-profit social enterprise that partners with female artisans across Africa to create handcrafted textiles, jewelry, and clothing. Their collections are a beautiful blend of traditional techniques and modern design, with a focus on highlighting artisan talent and providing fair, sustainable income.

While Idioma is a singular brand vision, Indego Africa is a platform that allows you to discover the work of countless skilled artisans. Both tell powerful cultural stories, but shopping with Indego Africa means more directly supporting artisan communities and their generational crafts. Shop now at indegoafrica.com.

13. Mbari

Hailing from Nigeria, Mbari offers contemporary fashion steeped in traditional African influences, particularly the use of vibrant Ankara fabrics. The brand creates everything from structured dresses to stylish jumpsuits that feel modern, polished, and perfectly suited for an urban wardrobe. They excel at crafting sleek silhouettes that let the bold prints take center stage.

Both Mbari and Idioma share a passion for cultural storytelling through textiles. Mbari differs in its specific focus on Nigerian fabrics and its affinity for sharp, contemporary cuts, offering a sophisticated take on cultural fashion for the modern woman. Shop now at mbariboutique.com.

14. Soko

Soko is the go-to for ethically handcrafted jewelry that feels both modern and timeless. Working with artisans in Kenya, they create stunning pieces from natural and reclaimed materials like brass and horn. Their designs often nod to African and global cultures through bold shapes and traditional motifs, making them the ultimate statement accessory.

Though Idioma is primarily a clothing brand, Soko’s jewelry is the perfect companion. Both businesses are B Corp certified and committed to creating beautiful, ethical products that celebrate their maker's heritage. Soko's pieces seamlessly complete a culturally rich and stylish look. Shop now at shopsoko.com.

15. Rashida Black

Rashida Black creates show-stopping, contemporary fashion with a heavy influence from African aesthetics. The brand is known for turning heads with its incredible use of bold prints, intricate embroidery, and dramatic silhouettes. From glamorous dresses to power separates, these are pieces designed for making an entrance.

Like Idioma, Rashida Black has a flair for creating unforgettable cultural fashion. The distinction lies in the intensity, where Idioma mixes subtle and statement pieces, Rashida Black goes all-in on high-impact designs that are guaranteed to get you noticed. Shop now at rashidablack.com.

16. Amah

Amah delivers a dreamy, bohemian take on artisanal fashion, pulling inspiration from African and Middle Eastern textiles. Picture flowing dresses, breezy skirts, and delicate accessories characterized by beautiful embroidery and romantic, intricate prints. The brand's aesthetic is relaxed, deeply feminine, and rooted in a love for traditional craft.

While Idioma's clothing often has a more structured, modern feel, Amah embraces a softer, boho-chic vibe. It’s perfect for anyone who loves the cultural storytelling of an Idioma piece but prefers a more carefree, laid-back silhouette for everyday life or travel. Shop now at amah.com.

17. Batik Boutique

Specializing in the ancient art of Indonesian batik, this social enterprise offers stunning dresses, skirts, and a diverse array of accessories. Each product showcases the rich patterns and vibrant colors created through traditional wax-resist dyeing techniques, ensuring every item is unique and steeped in cultural heritage.

In contrast to Idioma's global inspirations, Batik Boutique provides a specific cultural journey into Southeast Asian textile traditions. Both brands celebrate incredible artisanship and bold patterns, but Batik Boutique brings a distinct and beautiful Indonesian flavor to the world of cultural fashion. Shop now at batikboutique.com.

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