Ghana's market transforms trash to runway treasure in unexpected ways
Local designers turn discarded western clothes into high-end fashion at Ghanaʼs biggest second-hand market. Morning bargain hunters mix with runway models in this unique shopping district
At Accras bustling Kantamanto market shoppers dig through mountains of second-hand western clothes searching for hidden gems (while early-birds get the best picks). The market — known as West Africas largest used-clothing hub — shows two different sides of modern fashion.
On one street corner bargain-hunters browse through piles of pre-owned t-shirts jeans and dresses that came from overseas‚ but just steps away theres something totally different happening: a pop-up fashion event where creativity meets sustainability.
Local designers show off their talent by turning market leftovers into runway-ready looks. Models walk in re-made outfits that include:
- Floral-print tops from old blouses
- Custom-fitted pants from used denim
- Hand-crafted bags from leather scraps
- Up-cycled caps and accessories
The contrast is clear — while some shop for cheap clothes others turn unwanted items into high-fashion pieces that could easily be mistaken for brand-new designs. Its a perfect example of how Ghanaʼs creative minds are finding new ways to deal with the worlds clothing waste
