Hingees: Where Design Meets Everyday Life

Mary Nnah

Hammed Okunade, the innovative mind behind Hingees, a lifestyle brand, has been pushing boundaries and redefining design and sustainability. With a background in agronomy and a passion for design, Okunade launched Hingees with a single mission: crafting simple, thoughtfully designed products that make everyday moments effortlessly better.

Okunade’s transition into design was driven by his curiosity and fascination with how things look and are made. “I was a very curious kid,” he recalls. “I had all of those Lego toys, making things, design. All of those things fascinated me a lot.” Without formal training in fashion, Okunade’s design philosophy is rooted in creating functional products that make life better for people.

As a design-first brand, Hingees focuses on creating well-designed and well-made products that cater to everyday needs. “It’s not just fashion; it’s about making well-designed products that make life better for people,” Okunade explained. The brand’s product line includes leather goods, apparel, drinkware, and bags, all designed with thoughtfulness and attention to detail.

Hingees prioritizes sustainability and works with local artisans to create its products. Okunade sources materials locally and internationally, ensuring that the brand’s products are not only functional but also durable. “When you get very good leather, it takes time to wear out, which means you are not replacing things over and over again,” he notes. “It’s durable, and that means you are reducing carbon footprints.”
For instance, the brand uses full-grain cowhide, horsehide, or goat skin for most of its products, which are sourced from local markets like Munshi market in Lagos.

Hingees’ client base consists of young, ambitious individuals who want to inspire greatness. Okunade’s designs cater to both men and women, and the brand aims to continue expanding its product line while maintaining its focus on simplicity and functionality. The brand’s products are designed to be versatile, making them suitable for various occasions and lifestyles. For example, their combat pants are made from canvas cotton and elastane, with a bit of stretch for comfort and strength, making them ideal for travel, work, or everyday wear.

As a brand operating in Nigeria, Hingees faces challenges such as sourcing raw materials in an informal market and dealing with government policies and currency fluctuations. Despite these obstacles, Okunade remains committed to his vision, citing the importance of perseverance and adaptability. “You can’t rush things; you just have to go through the process to get out big on the other side,” he advises.

The name “Hingees” itself reflects the brand’s philosophy. “A hinge connects two parts of an object together,” Okunade explains. “So, Hingees is a brand that just connects with these people seamlessly.” The brand’s products are designed to be more than just functional; they are meant to inspire greatness and help people connect with their own potential.

A few weeks ago, Hingees celebrated a milestone, marking 10 years of its existence with a celebration themed “A Decade of Daring” in Lagos.
This occasion not only highlighted the brand’s growth but also its commitment to inspiring greatness in everyday life. Through its products and philosophy, Hingees continues to be a brand that resonates with people who value simplicity, functionality, and sustainability. With its commitment to design, sustainability, and community, Hingees is sure to continue making a lasting impact in the world of lifestyle brands.