Inside PETR KÓNYÉ: The denim brand merging African heritage with street fashion

Denim has long been a global fashion staple, but Nigerian designer Okonye Petr brings a distinct perspective—infusing African craftsmanship with heritage, artistry, and contemporary streetwear aesthetics to create a brand that resonates with a discerning audience.

Founded in 2023, PETR KÓNYÉ is more than just a denim label—it’s a movement. Specializing in bespoke distressed denim, the brand takes inspiration from traditional West African tailoring techniques, transforming raw denim into meticulously handcrafted pieces that tell a story of culture and identity.

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With over a decade of experience as the Creative Director of KÓNYÉ, Okonye Petr brings a masterful approach to his designs. In under two years, PETR KÓNYÉ  has already released two standout collections, showcased at Rhythm on the Runway and Paris Fashion Week side shows, and earned a feature in Harper’s Bazaar, cementing its place in the world of premium fashion.

But for Petr, the vision extends beyond fashion—it’s about positioning African craftsmanship on the global stage. “We are the only designers producing bespoke, made-to-measure distressed denim in and from Africa,” he says. “Our goal is to make this a recognized signature in premium streetwear.”

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Already a favorite among entrepreneurs, tech executives, musicians, and celebrities, PETR KÓNYÉ operates primarily through Instagram, direct sales, referrals, and exclusive runway collaborations. The brand is now gearing up for its next big move—opening a flagship store on Lagos Island, solidifying its place as Africa’s go-to name for high-end, culturally inspired denim.

Despite the well-documented challenges of running a business in Nigeria, Okonye Petr remains relentless in his pursuit. PETR KÓNYÉ is not just another fashion brand—it’s a symbol of how African heritage and modern streetwear can intersect to create something truly world-class.