Tuesday 26th of May 2026

Nairobi, Kenya

Meet Diana Maina Fashion Designer and Creative Director at Angianna Wear

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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Bahati bags lucrative deal with NTV Kenya The Reality Show Duded Being Bahati

The Gospel singer is set to become a reality star thanks to his new show on NTV Kenya dubbed ‘Being Bahati’ that will start airing every Sunday

Beign Bahati Reality Show

After airing the first episode, many claimed were not sure what the reality show is all about. The show had a cameo from several artists who spoke about the gospel singer and his family but a few Kenyans begged the singer to make it more creative.

Content Courtesy Of Nairobi Fashion Hub Digital  Online team

Aisha K. Ayensu Fashion Designer and Creative Director at Christie Brown from Ghana

Christie Brown is a Ghanaian-based luxury women’s fashion brand. Founded in March 2008 by Aisha Ayensu, who also serves as the brand’s creative director, Christie Brown is inspired by Ayensu’s grandmother, Christie Brown.

As a child, Ayensu watched her grandmother, who was a seamstress, create rich, vibrant garments, and today, she crafts her apparel and accessories in that vein. The label has garnered significant international attention: besides winning the Emerging Designer of the Year Award in 2009 at the inaugural Arise Africa Fashion Week in Johannesburg, South Africa, Christie Brown was also the only Ghanaian label chosen to showcase in the Arise L’Afrique-á-Porter, in Paris as part of Paris Fashion Week in March 2010.

After only a few of years in the industry, Christie Brown has created a strong presence for itself, reflecting the personality and inspiration of the founder, with a continued promise of effortless sophistication in each design.

Content Courtesy Of Christie Brown & Nairobi Fashion Hub

Meet Ancie’s Apparel Fashion Designer From Nigeria 

Nigerian designer, Ancie’s Apparel is an upcoming fashion brand which aims  to produce unique, stylish and affordable ready to wear outfits for women, specifically corporate women.Ancie’s outfit would consist of a rich blend of African and western prints as a way of promoting true African designs.

What inspired your fashion journey?

Ancie’s Apparel: To create outfits ladies that find comfortable with a feel good effect.

First ever creation?
Ancie’s Apparel : It was back in 2004, I made a long straight skirt that had a knee length center slit with roses around the slit (with my bare hands using needle and thread as i had no sewing machine and in fact had never peddled one) from a fabric my dad had gotten me for Christmas. I was excited and my parents were happy, I remembered them showing it off to almost everyone who came to visit. It was inspired by something I had seen my elder sister wear and I remember saying to myself “what if I make mine longer? what if I put roses around the slit? what if the slit is in the middle?
Yes there were mistakes like no darts, it had bad zip allowance and uneven sewing. Honesty I had no idea these things were necessary but I owned my skirt, I “rocked” my skirt and I loved it.

What are the challenges you have encountered?
Ancie’s Apparel : My challenge so far for me has been more of personal as I have been inconsistent with fashion but now I am back and fully ready but one thing I do know is that the price of machines necessary for sewing are a bit expensive.

Tell us about the collection you intend to showcase on AFWN runway
Ancie’s Apparel : For the AFWN runway, I intend to be true to my brands specific aim by making interesting outfits for the working woman that consists of a rich blend of African and western prints .

How do you feel with about the growing number of fashion designers? 
Ancie’s Apparel : I think it is really nice because I believe creativity can never be used up. The more creative pieces people put out there, the more new ideas are borne.  The saying that goes “the sky is big enough for everyone” is applied here, the fashion industry is big enough for everyone to carve a niche for themselves.

What is your outlook on African fashion and its impact worldwide? 
Ancie’s Apparel : Africans are stylish people, our fabrics are lovely, culture and heritage are fascinating and whether we admit it or not, it is evident the world is watching us.

Content Courtesy Of AFWN & Nairobi Fashion Hub 

 

Patrick Mavros African luxury Brand

The Patrick Mavros brand was founded 35 years ago when the then-soldier, Patrick Mavros, carved a pair of earrings for his wife, Catja. She wore them to the hair salon, where the hairdresser fell in love with them and instantly requested a pair for herself.

From this loving gift, the business was born into what is recognised today as a uniquely African and distinctively exotic, luxury brand. The Mavros sons, Alexander, Forbes, Patrick Jnr and Benjamin are also all passionately involved in the business.

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Sonia Mugabo Founder and Creative Designer Sonia Mugabo

Sonia Mugabo is an eponymous Rwandan fashion brand that was established in 2013. After interning at Teen Vogue in New York, the designer returned to her home country to launch her label.

Realizing the potential to grow in Rwanda’s creative space and also the desire to work with local artisans were the driving factors behind her move back, and with her designs, Mugabo works towards opening the doors for other Rwandan designers, as well as shining a spotlight on the talent within the country.

Mugabo is part of a growing number of young Rwandans who have returned home as a member of the country’s first post-war generation, and the designer plays to a new, upwardly mobile clientele with her designs. “Rwanda’s economy is becoming stable,” she said, speaking to Forbes. “People can afford luxury goods.

Ten years ago there were other things they had to focus on. Now, they have jobs, they want to look good.”

Content Courtesy Of Sonia Mugabo & Nairobi Fashion Hub

Meet Vanessa Chilimanzi Fashion and Beauty Blogger From Zimbabwe

I’m Vanessa Chilimanzi, also known as Nessah or Mis_Nessah. I am a Fashion and Beauty Blogger (www.misnessah.com) based in Johannesburg but I am originally from Zimbabwe.

I have been blogging for almost 3 years now and it is the most fulfilling thing I have ever done. What is the primary focus of your blog? Fashion. Fashion that not only focuses on the outward appearance but the kind that inspires and encourages self love and acceptance. I try to help women from all walks of life realise that there is no need to break the bank in order to look good and conservative dressing is a thing to be proud of.

How would you describe your style?

Vanessa Chilimanzi : Simple. I really take the term, “less is more” literally when I put my looks together.

Name five beauty products you can’t live without?

  • Foundation (NYX Total Control Drop Foundation)
  • Mascara (Essence Extreme Volume & Curl)
  • Nude Lipstick (NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream-London)
  • Highlighter (Anastasia Beverly Hills Glow Kit)
  • Makeup Remover (Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm)

What’s your Favorite fragrance?

Vanessa Chilimanzi :  Black Opium by Yvest Saint Laurent

Best place to eat out in Zimbabwe?

Vanessa Chilimanzi :  It’s embarrassing how I am out of touch but I think my favourite will always be the chicken place at Avondale Shopping Centre (I forgot the name).

What do you prefer Blog or YouTube?

Vanessa Chilimanzi :  YouTube.

What’s your take on Kenya Fashion Industry?

Vanessa Chilimanzi :  I will admit that I am not well informed on the Kenya Fashion Industry, however, I have come to realise that Kenyans are open to working with other Africans in getting Fashion to another level on the continent.

I have personally received so much love and acceptance from Kenyan bloggers and I appreciate it. It’s nice to know that fellow Africans in the fashion industry can support each other and cheer each other on. It says something about Kenyans.

How can you rate Africa fashion and what’s your reason?

Vanessa Chilimanzi :  Wow! Over the years we have progressed as a continent and now with a significant number of our designers showcasing at international shows, Fashion Bloggers working with international brands we are certainly on the road to greater things in the Fashion Industry.

We are not yet at the top but we are working our way there.

Your Favorite travel destination?

Vanessa Chilimanzi :  It’s between Paris and Milan. I can’t choose. I have never visited either but still they are the faves lol.

What’s the best fashion advice you’ve ever received?

Vanessa Chilimanzi :  Less is always more! This is a fact of life.

What was your most exciting moment since being an influencer?

Vanessa Chilimanzi :  The moment I received my first email to collaborate with a brand that I really love. I don’t think anything will ever top that.

Who takes your pics?

Vanessa Chilimanzi :  If not my photographer, it’s my blogger friends.

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Diarra Bousso Founder and Creative Director Of Diarrablu

Diarra Bousso is a designer and mathematics educator born and raised in Dakar, Senegal. She began her professional career on Wall Street as a bond trader but decided to resign two years later to follow her passion in arts and design.

She launched the Dakar Boutique fashion house in 2013 as part of Dakar’s vibrant creative community, alongside the labels: Diarrablu, Mint and Diarra Bousso.

Diarrablu is Bousso’s contemporary womens wear lifestyle label, founded with the intent of empowering Senegalese artisan communities while highlighting the African continent’s rich colors and unique patterns through practical and versatile pieces designed using mathematical concepts or algorithms.

Through a sartorial celebration of geometry and modern art, the collections are marked by strong structural cuts, bold prints and colourful accents. Artisans are introduced to mathematical concepts such as Euclidean geometry, combinatorics and recursion in the design process.

The collections are handmade in Dakar, Senegal with a focus on sustainability and social responsibility.

Content Courtesy Of Diarrablu & Nairobi Fashion Hub

Who is Ruby Okidi ? She is the Founder and Head Designer at Style By Ruby

Style by Ruby is an African inspired fashion house which deals with African prints and fabric to help clients reach their dreams of having African themed functions. While most of our outfits are functional, we also made simple outfits that can be worn in lazy weekends.

What inspired your fashion journey?

Ruby Okidi : I would have to admit that I have always been a fashionable personality. Dressing up is one of the ways I express myself. It was just one of those days that I was doing what I love best, I designed an outfit and posted on Social media, and that created a demand for it. My sister had earlier suggested that I take the fashion thing seriously. So due to demand, I made the outfit to those who wanted on order, hence their deposit was my start up.

Tell us about the aims and targets of your brand Style by Rubi

Ruby Okidi : At Style by Ruby we intend to meet all the needs of our clients by giving them more than their expectation. We aren’t perfect but we strive to deliver the best at all times. We don’t blindly make outfits; we advise clients on what suits their bodies. At time we play stylist and image consultants.

What was your first ever fashion creation, what inspired it? Did you like it?

Ruby Okidi : My first ever creation was a sky blue dress with hot pink details. It was a sexy strapless dress with a high front slit. I wouldn’t say it was inspired by anything other than my love for African prints and my personality, sexy. I totally loved the outcome, so did the public, it made me start a fashion line.

What challenges do you face as designer from Africa?

Ruby Okidi : African designers have so many challenges but I believe Mtumba is a huge challenge. Imported second hand clothes are way cheaper than designer wear hence most people opt for them, unless they have functions and need something specific to be sewn. Mtumba is limiting that you only choose what you get. Another challenge is getting capital Very few get collateral to start businesses.

What does fashion mean to you?

Ruby Okidi : Fashion for me is an expression of oneself. It’s not a joke when I say there is someone who wears red pajamas when she is moody, and why black is a safe color for a first date. If you are keen, they are influenced by moods, the weather, and the event among others. Fashion is a lifestyle.

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Meet Doreen Mashika Fashion and Accessory Designer From Tanzania

Doreen Mashika was born and raised in Tanzania and later moved to Switzerland where she completed her studies and began her career in finance, working for a team that specialized in luxury goods fund management.

Inspired by her the cultural heritage and wealth of design possibilities in Africa, she returned to Tanzania in 2008 to pursue her passion of design while building her eponymous brand, Doreen Mashika.

As her brand grew and her collections expanded, Mashika took home awards such as Accessory Designer of the Year, Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Africa at 2012; and won the African Designers for Tomorrow Competition (ADFT) in 2014.

Today she is proud to present a modern Tanzania to the world, showcasing sleek and cutting-edge designs rooted in bold colours, motifs, and hand-crafted accents.

Content Courtesy Of  Doreen Mashika & Nairobi Fashion Hub

Miss Uganda Pageant unveils the contestants at presentation night

Yesterday evening the Miss Uganda Pageant unveiled the 23 contestants that will be competing for the crown of Miss Uganda on August 10th at Sheraton Kampala Hotel.

It was a grand affair organised by Talent Africa and Kezzi Entertainment at the poolside of the home of Miss Uganda which is the Sheraton Kampala Hotel. This year’s contestants were presented in stylish manner and received well by the crowd who cheered on their favorite candidates with chants and cheers of encouragement. It was a lavish occasion with elegant decor and an A-list audience made up of sponsors, the Academy of beauty queens (former Miss Uganda winners), fashion trend setters and family members of the contestants.  Some of the notable celebrities and socialites at the event included Anita Fabiola, Nana Kagga, Stellah Nantumbwe, Joram Muzira, Natasha Sinayobe, Sophia Namatovu, Flirsh Flavia, Nickita Bachu, Pherry Kim and Andrew Kyamagero. The MC of the night was Prim Asiimwe and the event was hosted by the organisers Sylvia Namutebi of Talent Africa and Brenda Nanyonjo the CEO of the Miss Uganda Foundation.

Miss Uganda Pageant unveils the contestants at presentation night the event is official sponsored by Talent Africa, Kezzi Entertainment, Holiday Territory Travel Agency, Jambo Pay, Radio City 97 FM, Sheraton Kampala Hotel and NBS Television. 

The 23 contestants from all corners of the country will now participate in a boot camp filled with a series of buildup activities to the grand finale that will give audiences deeper insight into who the Miss Uganda hopefuls are.
All this will be covered by our media partner NBS Television.

The first assignment for the newly crowned queen will be to travel to the United States to fundraise for the Clean Water Campaign with the UNAA Causes which is a charity partnership with the Miss Uganda Foundation.

Kezzi Entertainment are the franchise holders of the Miss World Pageant for Uganda since 2011 and they have now teamed up with Talent Africa; a leading event and 360 degree entertainment company that has produced some of the biggest events in Uganda over the last ten years. This year’s Miss Uganda promises to be bigger and more full of showbiz than any of the previous years.

The organisers have already booked A-list celebrity Zari Hassan Tlale (aka Zari The Boss Lady) to be guest judge at the pageant and promise to reveal more surprises in the coming weeks leading to the finale.

The Miss Uganda pageant is sponsored by Talent Africa, Kezzi Entertainment, Holiday Territory Travel Agency, Jambo Pay, Radio City 97 FM, Sheraton Kampala Hotel and NBS Television.

Oprah Winfrey Covers August Vogue​​​​​​​

Powerhouse Oprah Winfrey is the cover star of the August 2018 issue of British Vogue. Lensed by Mert Alas and Marcus Piggott, and styled by Vogue editor-in-chief Edward Enninful, Oprah wears a custom-made taffeta gown by Stella McCartney and white-and-yellow-diamond and emerald earrings by Buccellati.

Inside the issue, the media icon discusses race, feminism, her Royal wedding appearance, the loves and losses in her life – and speculation that she may go into politics in a rare one-on-one interview with writer Decca Aitkenhead. The issue hits newsstands July 6.

British Vogue editor-in-chief Edward Enninful released his editor’s letter on Tuesday. It’s a lovely tribute to Oprah.

She walked in full of energy, filming us all on her phone for her Instagram stories, and was – as you would expect – the last word in professionalism. The photographers, Mert & Marcus both fell in love with her. I remember Mert turning to me between shots at one point to say, “You can tell that goodness is emanating from her.” Personally, I think this has a lot to do with the fact that – aside from her many great achievements – Oprah is just herself all the time. We can all surely learn from that.

Oprah Winfrey wears a made-to-order duchesse-satin dress by Alexander McQueen, a diamond bracelet, worn in hair, diamond, coral and spinel earrings, a diamond and ruby ring by Van Cleef & Arpels, and a pavé-diamond ring by Asprey. ; Oprah Winfrey wears a made-to-order green jacquard gown with brooch and jewelled shoes by Erdem. Diamond and ruby hair ornament by Bina Goenka. Emerald and diamond earrings and cuffs by G by Glenn Spiro. Emerald ring with diamond surround by Moussaieff. Emerald and pavé-diamond ring by Bulgari

Content Courtesy Of  Vogue & Nairobi Fashion Hub

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