I’m Diana Maina, Director and designer at Angiana wear. We focus on dressing people according to their different personalities and letting embrace their own style

When did you first realize you wanted to pursue a career as a designer?

Angiana wear : It was in 2012,most of the people I would meet up with would always ask who dressed me or compliment my outfits. Most of them it’s outfits I would buy and modify them to my liking. So 2014 I decided to try it out.

How is working in fashion different today than from when you started out?

Angiana wear : When I started off in 2014,most people had not yet embraced fashion as much as they have now. Even fashion events and awards have more attendance now than before.

What do you think is the most beautiful dress you’ve ever designed?

Angiana wear : A purple ball gown I designed for a friend for her birthday after she saw a red ball gown I had worn at Mtindo Africa event. It was gorgeous and breath taking.

Which supermodel do you have the closest relationship with, your favorite one?

Angiana wear : My favorite would be Maggie Muchemi former miss supernatural. Got to know her way back when I used to model. She has a kind heart and good at what she does.

Which competitor do you have the most respect for?

Angiana wear : That would be Akinyi Odongo. She is very creative and a go getter.

What role do you think social media plays in fashion today?

Angiana wear : It plays a big role in advertising and connecting you to the clientele you need. Also helps be cause those who don’t have knowledge of you get to see your work either from sponsored ads and etc. That way they get to contact you in future when they need your service or refer their friends to you.

What was your biggest fear when going out and starting your own line?

Angiana wear : First was because when I was starting this off I wasn’t physically around to supervise everything hence put trust in my family. Second was not sure if people were ready to embrace style instead of fashion.

Some Of  Angiana Wear Collections

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What challenges did you face as fashion designer from Africa?

Angiana wear : We have so much talent and many designers in Africa but most of the people prefer thrift shopping instead of getting a design made for them because it’s cheaper. Even with quality, you have to have more strategies to keep the clients coming.

What is your favorite part about being a Kenyan fashion designer?

Angiana wear : Because of so much competition, am motivated to think out of the  box and also get inspired by our beautiful country.

Who do you consider the important face of the fashion industry in Africa?

Angiana wear : Carol Odero.

What do you think about Kenya fashion Industry, Do Kenyans designer’s support each other?

Angiana wear : We are almost at the point fashion matters so much. No, most of them want to outdo each other. We forget if I buy something from someone who designs bags, and they in turn buy an outfit. Others will follow easily because they see we have confidence in each other. Charity begins at home.

What’s your take about Africa fashion industry and who would you like to work with here in Kenya?

Angiana wear : Our brands will get out there if we support each other as a continent and mentor those new in the industry.  In Kenya would like to work with Vine Clizz. He makes great fitting suits.

Where do you see yourself in 5 Year?

Angiana wear : Exporting my designs all over the world.

Where can we find your designs?

Angiana wear : Fb. Angiana wear, Twitter @angiana_wear, Instagram @msmaina_dee

How would you describe your personal style?

Angiana wear : Colorful, creative, Extra with a touch of African descent.

If you were given opportunity to work with local or international fashion designer who will you love to work with?

Angiana wear : Would love to work with Kai’s Divo Collection from Uganda. His creativity matches mine.

The designs you created are no doubt good enough, but who and which things were your inspiration while creating such designs

Angiana wear : My inspiration first of all is different types of personalities, the lively hood in my country and abit of fashion trends.

There’s so much pressure for designers to come out with their greatest collection season after season. What advice would you give to young designers just starting out and hoping to make it in the industry?

Angiana wear : When thinking of a new collection, think of something that really presents you. Unique and relates to your target clientele. That if they wear it, they feel good with no doubt. Give quality and a great experience.

your closing remarks and advice to young upcoming fashion designers

Angiana wear : Being in this industry is not easy because there is so much competition. But once you know who your target clientele is, figure out how to get your product to the market, build your brand in a way it relates to you. It will get easier and you will enjoy being part of it.

Content Courtesy Of Angiana Wear & Nairobi Fashion Hub