FAQS

❓Are all Austine Mali pieces handmade?                                                                                  📢 Yes. Every Austine Mali piece is handcrafted in small batches by skilled artisans in Nigeria. This ensures each item is unique and reflects the beauty of traditional African craftsmanship.

❓What fabrics do you use?
📢 We work primarily with Adire (tie-dye), Aso Oke (handwoven strips), Akwete (handloom woven), and other ethically sourced African textiles. These materials are celebrated for their vibrant colors, textures, and cultural heritage.

❓Will the product I receive look exactly like the image online?
📢 Due to the handmade nature of our pieces and the traditional dyeing and weaving techniques used, slight variations in color, pattern placement, or texture may occur. These are not flaws but part of the authenticity and charm of handmade artistry.

❓ How do I care for Adire, Aso Oke, and Akwete fabrics?
📢 We recommend gentle care:

  • Hand wash in cold water with mild detergent.
  • Do not bleach.
  • Hang to dry in shade to preserve colors.
  • For Aso Oke and Akwete, spot cleaning or dry cleaning is preferable due to their delicate weave.

❓Will the colors bleed?
📢 Some natural-dyed fabrics, like Adire, may release excess dye in the first few washes. This is normal. Always wash separately or with like colors and follow our care instructions carefully.

❓Where do you ship from?
📢 We ship from the UK and Nigeria. Orders across Africa are fulfilled from Nigeria, while orders to the rest of the world are shipped from the UK.

❓Do you ship internationally?
A: Yes! We ship worldwide. 

❓How long will my order take?
📢 As our pieces are handmade in small batches, please allow 3–5 business days for processing. Shipping times depend on your location:

  • UK & EU: 3–7 business days
  • Africa: 2–5 business days
  • USA & rest of the world: 7–14 business days

❓How do I know my size?
📢 Please refer to our Size Guide for measurements and fit tips. If you're between sizes or need further assistance, contact us—we’re happy to help.

❓Do you accept custom orders or alterations?
📢 Currently, we only offer our ready-to-wear collection. However, small adjustments may be possible on select pieces. Please email us for inquiries.

❓Are your pieces ethically made 🌱 ?
📢 Absolutely. We are committed to ethical practices and fair trade. Our artisans are paid fairly, and we produce in small batches to minimize waste and environmental impact.

❓Do you use sustainable materials?
📢 Many of our fabrics are sourced responsibly and created using traditional, low-impact methods like hand dyeing and weaving.

❓Do your styles run true to size?
📢 Most of our styles are designed for a relaxed, comfortable fit, but this varies by piece. Product descriptions include specific fit notes to help you choose.

❓Do you offer plus sizes?
📢 Some of our pieces are available up to UK size 20. We’re working to expand sizing across more styles in the future.

❓Who makes your clothes?
📢 Our collections are brought to life by a network of skilled Nigerian artisans who are masters of their craft. We partner directly with them, ensuring fair wages and ethical working conditions.

❓Is Austine Mali a sustainable brand?
📢 Sustainability is central to our ethos. We use traditional low-impact processes, avoid mass production, and create garments meant to last for years—not seasons.

❓Do you use eco-friendly packaging?
📢 Yes. Our packaging is 100% recyclable and plastic-free where possible.

❓Can I track my order?
📢 Yes. Once your order is dispatched, you’ll receive a tracking number via email to monitor your delivery in real time.

❓ Do you offer express shipping?
📢 Express shipping is available at checkout for select regions. If you need your order urgently, please contact us before placing your order.

❓Can I machine wash Austine Mali clothing?
📢 To preserve the integrity of hand-dyed and handwoven fabrics, we recommend hand washing or dry cleaning. Machine washing may cause shrinkage or color fading over time.

❓How do I store Aso Oke and pieces?
📢 Store them folded in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid hanging heavy Aso Oke garments, as this may stretch the fabric over time.

❓Why are your products made in small batches?
📢 We believe in mindful production. Small batches allow us to reduce waste, maintain exceptional quality, and give our artisans the time and space to create beautiful, lasting pieces.

❓Are your fabrics all-natural?
📢 Many of our fabrics are handwoven or hand-dyed using natural fibers and traditional methods. Some slight variations in texture or color may occur, which are part of their beauty and authenticity.

❓Do your pieces include synthetic materials?
📢 Most of our fabrics are natural (cotton, silk blends, raffia), but occasionally we work with fabric blends where necessary for structure or longevity.

❓What is your return policy?
📢 We accept returns within 14 days of delivery for unworn, unwashed items in their original condition. Please see our full Return Policy for details.