When Tems, the Grammy-winning Nigerian artist, stopped by a pop-up in Accra and picked up some stunning pieces from Clapes Department, it set the internet talking. But beyond the social media buzz, what’s the story behind this Ghanaian streetwear brand?

About Clapes Department: The Brand with the Buzz

Grammy-winning Nigerian artist, Tems shops at ent. Photo Credit: Joseph Boakye Mensah
Grammy-winning Nigerian artist, Tems shops at ent. Photo Credit: Joseph Boakye Mensah

Founded in June 2023 by Laris Laryea, Clapes Department has grown beyond just a clothing label into a shared purpose. The brand’s mission is to connect and empower the youth through fashion, combining bold designs with a deep cultural narrative. 

Clapes Department started with a simple yet distinctive oval-shaped logo, but by October, it introduced its now-iconic “four-petal flower” emblem. This design isn’t just for show but to symbolize growth, protection and the vibrant energy of the young community it represents.  

What sets Clapes Department apart isn’t just its eye-catching pieces but its commitment to sustainability. By using locally sourced materials, the brand ensures its clothing remains high-quality, affordable, and environmentally friendly—values that resonate with its youthful audience.

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COLLECTIONS

Polo Shirt by Clapes Department. Photo Credit: Clapes Department
Polo Shirt by Clapes Department. Photo Credit: Clapes Department

The brand dropped its first collection on the 14th of December 2023 which went global with it’s iconic pieces . It dropped its second collection on the 12th of May 2024 (Volume 1) which is a portion of the collection “1000 pieces of arts” and it’s still making wave with its extraordinary pieces. It’s most recent collection dropped on the 13th of October 2024 which has set a big mark in the streetwear industry.

“SUNSET BLISS SET”by Clapes Department. Photo Credit: Clapes Department
“SUNSET BLISS SET”by Clapes Department. Photo Credit: Clapes Department

This collection was mainly made up of sports wear garments which could be featured in the daily
lives of its customers.

Who’s Wearing Clapes Department?

Grammy-winning Nigerian artist, Tems shops at ent. Photo Credit: Joseph Boakye Mensah
Grammy-winning Nigerian artist, Tems shops at ent. Photo Credit: Joseph Boakye Mensah

Before Tems’ shopping moment caught everyone’s attention, Clapes Department had already made its mark on Ghana’s creative scene. Celebrities and artists like Amaarae, King Promise, AratheJay, Joey B, Mansro Dede and Nigeira’s Odumodu Blvck have already associated with the brand. Even the celebrated Free The Youth (FTY) collective has collaborated with the label, a nod to etching a place in Ghana’s streetwear culture.

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AratheJay wears Clapes Department. Photo Credit: Clapes Department
AratheJay wears Clapes Department. Photo Credit: Clapes Department

The Buzz Is Just Beginning

Clapes Department’s collections, from the global debut in December 2023 to the sportswear-inspired drop in October 2024, have been steadily gaining traction. Its recent win as “New Streetwear Brand of the Year 2024” at the Ghana Tertiary Fashion Awards only adds to its growing list of accomplishments.

With its latest collection still making waves and international celebrities taking notice, Clapes Department is poised to become a leader in Ghanaian streetwear, blending art, culture, and sustainability in every stitch. Curious to see what all the hype is about? Clapes Department might just be your next favourite streetwear brand.