Sunday 27th of September 2026

Nairobi, Kenya

Tag: African Fashion

Levitando en Afrika

Posted on by Ann Mumbi

Levitando en Afrika is a brand of ethnic and tribal macrame jewelry  founded by Alexandra Gracia Ortiz from Spain all her collections  are inspired by Africa tribal Jewelry  hand made,Macrame is a very old art whose technique consists of making different types of knots with thread forming a tissue.

Alexandra Gracia is a self taught and versatile designer that show in her handmade designs, inspired by her trips to Africa, originality, multi-culture , colorful and ethnic essence, definitely pure African style. In Alexandra unique pieces, She fuse the techniques of micro macrame with gold, old silver, bronze, minerals, recycled materials, African beads and wax prints.

Alexandra Gracia Showcasing her Collection

Last year 2017 Levitando en Afrika participated in Africa Fashion Week Barcelona (Spain) and also showcased Nairobi Fashion Week (Kenya), and recently 03/03/2018 she exhibited her jewelry collection in the Fashion High Tea event at Zen Garden, Nairobi (Kenya)

What is Macrame?
Macrame (or macramé), is a form of textile-making where fibers or cords are knotted rather than woven or knitted together. Square knots and half hitch knots are traditionally used, and sailors have long used macrame to decorate accessories and parts of ships. Most friendship bracelets are macrame, and this knotting technique can be used to create other styles of jewelry as well.

Common materials used in macrame include cords made of cotton or linen , hemp , leather, twisted nylon and yarn. In recent years, paracord has become another popular material. Beads , charms , links and other accents can be knotted in with the cord to create a wide variety of designs.

How to Macrame
Though macrame involves knotting, the process of making macrame jewelry is almost like braiding. Multiple strands of cord are knotted together using square knots in a repeating pattern. It is often helpful to have some sort of clamp, clip or macrame board to keep the strands organized and in place.

A central cord (or cords) remains stationary and forms the foundation for your knot work. Beads, links, and other accents can be mixed in as you knot or added at the beginning. This technique is best shown visually so see below for step-by-step instructional videos on how to macrame.

Content Courtesy Of Levitando en Afrika & Nairobi Fashion Hub

Kipato Unbranded

Posted on by Ann Mumbi

 

Who are Kipato Unbranded ?

Kipato Unbranded is about beauty and unique designs. they create jewelry that is inspired by ‘ “everyday people and for everyday people”. Their pieces are made from local materials that include brass, recycled bone, and beads.

Kipato is a Swahili word meaning ” income “. This underscores the social justice core of the social enterprise. From its beginnings, they  provide the artists with fair wages.
Being a women-led organization Kipato unbranded are conscious about empowering young women. Kipato Unbranded is adaptable and ethically responsible.

Kipato Unbranded was founded in November 2015. since then it has received media attention including features on television programming,publications in media houses both in print and online, blog features, and showcased in high
profile events.

Their shareholders are 5 young women from different cultures and backgrounds – an international group that is committed to seeing this vision and mission exceed in every way possible by contributing their skills in law, design, marketing and branding.

Some of Kipato Hand made African Jewelry

 

Why “ Kipato Unbranded ”

1. Kipato: Kiswahili word meaning ” income “. This underscores the social justice core of the enterprise. We ensure that our artists are empowered by their work and receive fair wages for their creativity. From its beginnings, profits from the artists’ work,
whether sold in international or local markets, go directly to the artists, creating a model that is sustainable and fair to them.
2. We are “unbranded” because we are focused on creating jewelry by everyday people, for everyday people. We believe that beautiful Kenyan jewelry should not be out of reach for Kenyans and Africans on the continent, and therefore are
striving to create an enterprise that is accessible and approachable.
3. Our brand is also adaptable, simple, and ethically responsible- the collections are designed to be versatile, suitable as much for a high-profile journalism awards event as for a casual Saturday afternoon with friends.
4. Our products are created from recycled products, and our packaging and operations are eco-friendly, making it an environmentally responsible enterprise as well.
Kipato Unbranded is about simplicity, accessibility and empowerment.

Read more  no next  page

Pages: 1 2 3 4

Margaux Wong

Posted on by Fashion Tribe Influencer

Margaux Wong, based in Burundi, East Africa, is an innovative design hub where artisans have been transforming discarded cow horn and brass into luxurious, beautiful wearable art since the brand launched in 2001.

The brand’s artisans are the center and essence of Margaux Wong, and they continually strive to create objects of beauty. Founder and Creative Director Margaux Rusita, originally from Guyana, South America, draws inspiration from her homeland and home-continent.

Having lived and worked in Burundi for the last 10 years, she pulls from the turmoil and victories that come with being an artist in the country.

All Margaux Wong designs are hand-made and each piece is unique due to the special quality of the cow horn.

The brand emphasizes the value and the natural beauty of the horn and does not add dyes, paints or varnish to their merchandise.

Each piece is hand polished to the finest finish using tedious traditional techniques.

Constantly working to produce the most prized artisan jewellery from the finest cow horn in the region, Margaux Wong prides itself on its sustainable and eco-friendly practices.

Anok Yai has Become the first Black Model to Open Prada Runway Show

Posted on by Ann Mumbi

Anok Yai has become the first black model to open a runway show for Prada since Naomi Campbell did so more than two decades ago in 1997. The 19-year-old only discovered that she had been chosen to open the show for the Italian fashion house at Milan Fashion Week about an hour before she was due to grace the catwalk.

Anok Yai is an Egyptian-born American fashion model of South Sudanese descent. She is the second black model to open a Prada show after Naomi Campbell, and the first South Sudanese model to do so. Yai currently ranks as one of the “Top 50” models by models.com

 

Anok Yai at Prada Show 2018

She showcased pieces from Prada’s autumn/winter 2018 collection, only a few months after being scouted for her modelling potential at a college party.

“It was an honour and I’m proud that I was the one chosen to open, but this is bigger than me,” Yai told Vogue.
“Me opening for one of the top fashion houses is a statement to the world – especially for black women – that their beauty is something that deserves to be celebrated.”

Read more  no next  page

Pages: 1 2

Moyo By BiBi

Posted on by Ann Mumbi

Moyo By BiBi is a Kenya Luxury accessories Brand (company) founded by Bibi Ahmed accessory designer based in UK London with Kenyan roots,all her accessories are handcrafted at the island and Village by selected artisans from Kenya

Moyo By BiBi was founded by Bibi. The brand is Inspired by the Maasai, Samburu tribes, Kenyan culture and tradition. “Moyo” which means “heart” in Kiswahili the main language spoken in Kenya. All accessories have been handcrafted by native Kenyan men and women at the village using tradition method, making sure they have put effort in every little detail to give you a true statement piece, and long lasting accessories.

Her first collection of accessories was launched in march 2016 

Moyo By BiBi accessories are unique, versatile and vibrant. One of the reasons why Moyo By BiBi accessories are so unique is because men and women can wear, each piece has a story to it. Using a range of materials such as real leather, maasai beads, pipe beads and glass crystals. The art of the bead work is out of this world.

“Be bold and vibrant with African inspired jewellery”

 

Men’s Guide to Aging Gracefully

Posted on by Ann Mumbi

Aging affects both men and women ,but focusing on aging gracefully is not up to women alone but also up to men for anyone to look good and feel like yourself throughout your life is a huge confidence booster for any person. People respond to power, and to a well-dressed, put together gentlemen. It can get you more clients, it can further your career, and it can help you feel on top of the world no matter whether you are thirty or sixty. Looking good is all about effort, so follow this guide to age gracefully and look fantastic throughout your life and you will forever be young at heart

Richard Mofe-Damijo

1. Beauty Routines Are for Everyone
The first preconception that you have to leave behind is that a beauty routine is only for women. Beauty routines are for everyone because everyone’s skin requires constant care and dedication. The specific treatments, of course, will depend on your skin’s needs. If you are lucky, a regular, drug-store routine of cleansers, moisturisers, and sun protection will be enough to age gracefully. If you need a more medical solution, it’s wise to consult your doctor.

2. Staying Fit with a Busy Schedule
Metabolisms slow down, and as they do, we can quickly lose our figures. That is why, instead of buying that gym membership you never use, you should first aim to be more active on a daily basis. Walk further to work, take the stairs, get a dog that requires the consistent exercise – these are all great stepping stones that will help you build up to a more active life.

Read more  no next  page

Pages: 1 2

What Make’s a Successful Fashion Designer

Posted on by Ann Mumbi

Whats it take to become a successful fashion designer? its simple follow this step you may excel in some areas but need work in others. Don’t let that discourage you. Enroll in a fashion institute or take classes at a two- or four-year college to brush up on the skills you have and develop the ones you need to be a fashion designer, young and aspiring fashion designer  should follow this tip.

Africa Fashion Design

1. Highly Creative & Artistic
Are you known for being artistic? Do you have a unique sense of personal style or appreciate the fine arts, music and dance? An innate sense of creativity is extremely important in the fashion world. Together, artistry and imagination can give you the instincts necessary to turn raw materials into a beautiful finished product.

2. Strong Drawing Skills
Do you like to draw? If so, that’s good news because you’re going to need this skill as you pursue being a fashion designer. Strong drawing skills are a must in fashion, as designers need to be able to take a concept and get it down on paper. If you’re lacking in this area, you can take classes to practice drawing ball gowns, dresses, pants or whichever garments you envision yourself designing.

3. Good Eye for Detail
Fashion designers need not only the ability to draw but also a good eye for detail.
For example, how do you envision the pleats falling on a skirt or a blouse cinching at the waist? What about ruching, ruffles or embroidery? It is often the detail that makes a product unique, so this skill cannot be overlooked, even if you’re great at visualizing and drawing.

Pages: 1 2 3

Kenyan Designer Deepa Dosaja

Posted on by Ann Mumbi

Who is Deepa Dosaja? She is one of the Africa’s top designer her couture collection was for the first time showcased at the New York Fashion Week, Studio 450 New York. With her distinctive designs, Deepa Dosaja, has firmly established her name in Kenya and has clientele across the globe.

One of Deepa Dosaja Collection

Deepa Dosaja, one of Kenya’s leading designers, was recently selected to represent Kenya at the inaugural Commonwealth Fashion Exchange that was launched recently in London. Her look was exhibited at Buckingham Palace, during London Fashion Week, on February 19/2018 and ended yesterday 20th February 2018

Deepa Dosaja Background
Deepa Dosaja was born in Nairobi, Kenya. In 1977 her family relocated to Montreal, Canada, where she was to spend her childhood. It is whilst growing up in Montreal that Deepa realised her creative instincts.

On completing high school Deepa enrolled into La Salle College, Montreal from where she received a Diploma in Fashion Design. During this period Deepa also worked at a small exclusive boutique Filly and Colt (www.fillyandcolt.com/). This opportunity proved invaluable to her for the knowledge gained in various aspects of fashion.

In the early 1990’s Deepa relocated back to Kenya with an eye to launching her Fashion career. At the time the Fashion scene in Kenya was slowly ebbing into a reality. Her first assignment was Merchandising Manager or Hardcore Clothing Company a highly successful manufacturer and retailer.
Deepa ventured into her own business in 1991 and primarily engaged in Haute Couture for a client base that was growing in numbers. The year 2000 saw the creation of her own distinct label and flagship company Vabene Couture. The label was elemental in bringing a stylish upscale facet to the then burgeoning Kenyan fashion scene, changing the perception of what Kenyan fashion really means among style conscious consumers.

Read more  no next  page

Pages: 1 2 3 4 5

Style Temple

Posted on by Ann Mumbi

Founded by Oguana Okonkwo in 2012, Style Temple is a millennial womenswear brand that caters to upwardly mobile, globally curious women.

Recognized for its signature sophisticated textiles, silhouettes, and cuts, Style Temple delivers well-structured, contemporary garments with impeccable tailoring and fit.

After debuting their SS’17 collection at Lagos Fashion and Design Week 2012, VOGUE Italia wrote about the buzzy premiere:

“Presented in a chic and contemporary manner, it’s accessible to the independent young woman who frees herself to stylishly embrace all that she is.” Marie Claire South Africa calls the brand “a celebration of African design fused with international trends and influences,” and as Style Temple continues to grow, Okonkwo proves time and again that her designs are a means for self-expression for the women who wear them.

Niiffe New Collection

Posted on by Ann Mumbi

NIIFFE Present The Elegant New Women’s  Wear Collection Dubbed “The Edge Of Desire’

NIIFFE was started in 2010 solely as a bespoke brand catering mainly for weddings and special events (majorly red carpets), we then launched in our RTW arm in 2012 with the sole goal of providing the opportunity for people to be adequately represented through their fashion sense and style. It has always been our belief that clothes should be made to fit our bodies and not the other way round and as a result, our designs are magnificent, mysterious, fresh, radiant, elegant with an intensive that you will find desirable.

The Edge Of Desire

The collection was exhibited live at the sales event on Sunday, December 3rd, 2017

Read more  no next  page

Pages: 1 2

Moët and Chandon Wedding Experience

Posted on by Ann Mumbi

International wine maker Moet and Chandon launched an offer on Thursday for Kenyan couples who wish to hold their weddings with their champagne brands. The event held at Hemingways was graced by a host of celebrities and media personalities who included Lucia Musau, Anita Nderu, and Amina Abdi among others.

“Every wedding couple desires their wedding to be the most memorable for themselves and their guests. From the classic and intimate weddings, to glittery and full of grandeur, Moët & Chandon makes the perfect toast. It is the champagne of Kings and Queens, braced as the quintessential champagne of choice by the glamourous and charismatic, turning every occasion into a celebration graced with style,” the East African based marketing manager said.
The brand aims to elevate the wedding experience from proposals to wedding dinners, offering account managers, wedding essentials and consultants.

From Left Lucia Musau, Neomi Nganga, Kobi Kihara, Anita Nderu, Amina Abdi

Content Courtesy Of Nairobi Fashion Hub , Moët & Chandon

Anyango Mpinga

Posted on by Oscar Alochi

Anyango Mpinga is an award-winning fashion designer who was born and raised in Nairobi, Kenya. Formally trained in media studies, she graduated with a B.A. in social communication with a minor in radio production, and worked in the media industry as an event and public relations manager at the beginning of her career.

In 2011, she was inspired to take her love for fashion beyond a hobby, and began her clothing line with the vision to create a brand that is synonymous with elegance, authenticity and style.

In 2015, she relaunched eponymously as part of a growing slow fashion movement, which emphasizes a more conscious consumption of fashion products, focusing on a clean, transparent supply chain that is sustainable and ethical.

Mpinga’s influences are drawn from her spiritual life as a Bahá’í, her love for the arts, her travels and her rich multi-cultural heritage. As her brand continues to evolve, the designer has been recognized internationally—in both 2015 and 2017, she was nominated for Designer of the Year at the Kenya Fashion Awards, and in 2016, she received the She Trades Collective (ITC Geneva) International Design Award. Mpinga’s work is a testament of her love for art in motion while creating sustainable incomes for the artisans she works with across the globe.

Content Courtesy Of Nairobi Fashion Hub

Ad