ABOUT US
My name is Aderiyike Makinde, and I’m proud to be the creative director of Aderiyike, a luxury sustainable sunglasses brand born from passion, purpose, and an unshakable belief in the power of innovation. I hail from Ogun State, Nigeria, and though I started this journey just over a year ago, it has already become a mission that goes far beyond fashion—it’s about creating a legacy of sustainability and empowerment.
The inspiration for Aderiyike came from a question that troubled me deeply: Why don’t we have century-old global brands emerging from Nigeria? Working in the tech industry, I’ve always been fascinated by innovation, but I couldn’t shake the feeling that my love for fashion could become a driving force for something greater. So, I embarked on a journey to build a brand that could stand the test of time and inspire others to believe in what’s possible.
As I explored this vision, sustainability became the cornerstone of my mission. I began researching industries where change was needed the most, and one discovery stood out—a single company controlled 87% of the global sunglasses market. That staggering statistic made me pause and ask: Why aren’t more brands entering this space?
Determined to find answers, I dived headfirst into the world of sunglasses. It was a world of technical challenges, untapped potential, and an opportunity to make a real difference. After months of testing and experimenting, I found my answer in bio-acetate, a groundbreaking material made from wood pulp and cotton. Unlike traditional plastics, bio-acetate is biodegradable and durable, offering a sustainable alternative without compromising on quality or style.
At Aderiyike, every pair of sunglasses tells a story of innovation and purpose. Our frames are not just accessories—they are a bold statement. They’re polarised, UV 400, and designed to seamlessly transition from day to night, perfect for anyone who loves to live vibrantly, whether at work, at play, or under the dance floor lights.
This journey hasn’t been without its challenges, but each obstacle has strengthened my resolve to show the world that a Nigerian brand can compete on the global stage. Through Aderiyike, I want to inspire a new generation of dreamers and creators to see what’s possible when you combine creativity, courage, and an unwavering commitment to doing good.
Aderiyike isn’t just about sunglasses—it’s about rewriting narratives, shattering stereotypes, and building a sustainable future where African brands thrive. This is only the beginning of our story, and I invite you to be part of this exciting journey as we reimagine luxury and redefine what it means to leave a meaningful impact on the world.
Vision Statement: At Aderiyike Sunglasses, we envision a world where fashion meets sustainability. Our vision is to lead a paradigm shift in the fashion industry, ending the era of fast fashion. We strive to cultivate a culture where sustainable practices are embraced, and our timeless sunglasses become synonymous with longevity and enduring style.
So, join us on this sunny journey as we bring you Aderiyike – where fashion meets function, and where every pair of sunglasses tells a story. It's a story of laughter, inspiration, and the pursuit of affordable luxury, one stylish frame at a time. Welcome to the world of Aderiyike, where you'll never have to choose between looking effortlessly chic and protecting your eyes ever again!
