ABAGA VELLI, founded by Diallo ‘NEHIMIAH’ Hasmat-Ali & Reyaz Hasmat-Ali, is a brand
that brazenly wears it unique sensibilities as adornments rather than scars, aptly situated
in the new vanguard of making the unconventional relateable within culture & fashion.
Launched in 2019, ABAGA VELLI instills the lived experiences and community oriented
mindset of founder Diallo ‘Nehimiah’ Hasmat-Ali. Taking its name from an
acronym meaning “Art Brings Access, Grants Ascendance” alongside the votic word for
brotherhood, “velli”, the London-based brand marries contemporary diasporan fashion
with the acclaimed heritage of fine British tailoring.
ABAGA VELLI’s initial signature shapes and creative approach were spearheaded by,
it’s inagural creative director/self-taught designer, Adémidé Udoma (2020 – 2023). In
2024, ABAGA VELLI enters a matured creative direction under the helm of Nehimiah &
refreshing design approach with Mohsin Ali.
The label augments its laboriously researched collections by using luxury fabrics such as
Japanese raw denim, Italian leather, and technical fabrics to create sleek and adaptable
staples for everyday wear. Infusing high-quality craftsmanship with rich storytelling,
ABAGA VELLI offers a unique, succinct vision of menswear elegance.
Part of ABAGA’s core principals is supporting and working with artists and creatives
from underrepresented communities.
