Patricia Mbella graduated from the prestigious central St Martin’s collge in London, before going onto complete her studies at the Kent institute of Art and design. Twelve years in the Kenyan fashion industry saw her continually perfecting her style.patriciambela@gmail.com
Nike Kondakis is Greek/ Danish and grew up in Europe where she studied art, design and social entrepreneurship. With her diverse background, she seeks to providean ethical and sustainable alternative to the modern fashion industry. All Kondakis garments are made from original recycled parachutes that can no longer be used to jump in. The garments are accompanied by accessories made from dead wood that has naturally fallen off the trees in the Kenyan bush, a bold chunky contrast to the smooth and feminine parachute fabric.
MOOCOW is collaboration between founder Wambui Njogu and designer Samira Jeizan. Both graduated in design from the American College in London, and have gone on to gain experience within the fashion industry. Moocow seeks to embrace new materials and techniques in the creation of cutting edge design.
Kooroo fashion label Kooroo is the inspiration of Herbert Lakew and Enid lanez. Herbert graduated from the fashion institute of technology in NewYork and went on to gain experience in the fashion industry, while Enid has a degree in accounting. The pair met in Nairobi, where their complementary skills and shared love of fashion led them to establish KOOROO in 2006. This is a ready to wear womens line that blends sophisticated urban chic with African influences.
KikoRomeo (Swahili for Adams Apple) was set up by Ann McCreath in 1996, after years in the fashion industry in Europe, followed by aid work in Angola & Kenya. In 2008 she founded FAFA (Festival for African fashion and arts) as well as fashion for peace bringing together designers to promote creativity and cultural diversity.
Deepa Dosaja Designer of Deepa Dosaja has worked in the fashion industry for a number of years before opting to create her label and flagship company Vabene couture in 2000. Vabene coture’s upscale studio in Nairobi caters for both a local and international clientele with Deepa’s unique one of a kind garments that includes her signature trim lip dresses, low slung pants and oversized blazers.
Mustafa Hassanali is a celebrated name in Tanzania, Mustafa Hassanali’s preogressive design fuses traditional Tanzanian Heritage with avant-garde contemporary cuts and styling.Mustafa has extensive experience working on corporate and television shows including Vodacoms Miss Tanzania and MNETs face of Africa and has participated in fashion weeks across the east African region.
Photos by : Conrad Samanya /fafa / Maria Grazia
Text : Wambui Wamutogoria
I am glad that Africa is stepping up their Game as far as fashion . Good job. Thanks ciaa to keep us updated
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