This blooming Nairobi fashion scene has been on a continuous rising trend since 'mitumba' - the long awaited 'fashion messiah' arrived. Before then, clothes were sold at super expensive prices in shops in the city but clearly times have changed. Kenyan designers have now emerged and staked their claim in the global fashion space.
Here are some fashion pieces in the fashion world with ties back to Kenya:
Luo Jacket
With roots in the heart of Kenya, this jacket is a fashion statement that speaks style and refinement. Cut from 100% cotton Kikoy-cloth it boasts of a well done two button design, four buttons on the sleeves and a working cuff.
The price tag on this piece is nothing short of hefty, but on second thought, with all this refinement and style ₤ 218.00 (Ksh.28, 435.92) is a small price to pay.
From Kenya to the world, this fashion item continues to make waves and tell stories about the taste in Kenyan fashion. Variation to the design that have been made include the "nusu-luo jacket" (loosely translated to mean half-luo jacket) which is basically a sleeve-less version of the Luo jacket we have come to know and love.
This jacket is available at www.koyclothing.com
Enda Sneaker
Walk on the streets of Durban, New York literally- anywhere world over and ask what Kenya is known for? Well, your answer will be right there. Running! It comes as no surprise that the second Kenyan fashion statement that has been pushed out into the world by our skilled designers is running shoes!
This breathable sneakers are designed with the average runner in mind; with a light sole, a mid-sole drop that ensures real conform for high adrenaline activities like long distance running and high stress activity. These lace up babies also come with a great aesthetic to them -I'm talking, throw a pair of jeans or chinos over them and still look stylish in any informal event- kind of swag!
Ohana Swim Wear
Warm sandy tropical beaches with pine trees that effortlessly bend over the salty water. This is one of our proudest exports as Kenyans. But a Kenyan fashion designer saw a niche for custom swim wear with an African feel to it and Ohana was born.This swim wear collection has made waves over the internet, and consequently, the global internet village, comes in different variations to suit different body sizes and shapes, while still bringing out the best version of individual summer bodies. The Ankara design Ohana Swim Wear employs also brings out the African vibe and energy.
https://www.instagram.com/p/B15dHPhAIje/
To view the entire collection and design archive see their Instagram page @ohana.swimwear
The Maasai Leso
Iconic world over, the maasai leso has become a symbol of Kenyan heritage. The verve and vibrancy brought out by this red checked cloth has opened ways for this piece of cloth to be transformed into as many items as the international fashion scene has to offer and it still maintains its cultural appeal that always finds its way back home- Kenya.
This piece of cloth, should set you back roughly Ksh.500-2000 depending on the texture and fabric quality and size and is available at:
www.jumia.co.ke, House of Leather and fabric stores around Nairobi.
What's your Kenyan fashion statement piece?
