These Sisters Are Bringing African Clothing to the Italian Stage – Read About Caterina and Margherita Libouri's Work & Life in Italy

Meet Caterina and Margherita, the creative minds behind Double Trouble Bologna (DTB), a sustainable brand founded in 2013. 

Originally, they crafted unique leather bags but later expanded to include clothing made from African cotton wax fabrics. In 2023, they opened their first store in Bologna.

Their journey started in Italy, where their father, originally from Gabon, came to study and decided to settle down. Being Afro-Italians, they grew up and studied in Bologna. After finishing their studies, they established DTB as an artisan leather goods brand. Over time, they transformed it into a family business and added clothing and accessories to their offerings.

Creating clothing with African fabrics sets them apart in the market. However, they sometimes face the challenge of being mistaken for another brand that uses similar fabrics. Despite this, they have been successful and appreciated for their unique fashion.

Living in Italy as Africans, they've encountered stereotypes and limited knowledge about Africa. Yet, they haven't experienced discrimination in their community, as Bologna has been accepting and open-minded.

Their success recipe includes dedication, hard work, and research. They create unique products, like their summer bags made from woven raffia and leftover leather, sourced from different places and assembled in their workshop.

Connections have played a crucial role in their thriving journey. They collaborate with African tailors and fabric sellers, benefiting from mutual partnerships.