Okun: Luxury beachwear inspired by Africa

With summer just around the corner, it's time to stock up your wardrobe with the finest swimwear in town. Our go to brand in the beachwear department is Òkun, a premium African-inspired mens swimwear brand whose vibrant prints and colours in contemporary African style combine comfort, quality and plenty of feel good vibes. 

Òkun translates as 'the ocean' in Yoruba, a language spoken in West Africa, mainly Nigeria. Now in it's third season. Òkun continues to travel and explore Africa, taking inspiration from traditional woven patterns from Ethiopia and Congolese Kuba cloth as well as South African Shwe Shwe print. Our favourite print this season is the Melon print - a fun fusion of pop art and African wax print style. 

Each season, a Ghanaian Adinkra symbol is used to headline the brand's mood and the motif 'Boa' Boa me, na me mmao wo - "Help me and let me help you" represents the cooperation and interdependence needed to achieve all things great and small. It is fitting therefore that a percentage of the brand's profits go to foundations on the continent that improve the livelihoods of young Africans.

With quality and comfort being a priority, their clothing is made with a quick-dry fabric which avoids the plastic-feel of nylon. Perfect for days spent relaxing by the pool. As winners of the UK Fashion and Textile Rise award in 2014, Òkun is definitely a brand to watch out for, sharing with the world the vibrant spirit of Africa through print and colour. We are eagerly awaiting their women's range which is coming soon.

Check out their latest collection at John Lewis, or browse the racks of a stockist near you. 

For more information about Òkun, click here.