UP Fashion: 2015 Designer Profile Roundup

It could have been their unique approach to the business or their sensational touch to every fabric that came their way. UP definitely commends all fashion designers for their work who ensure that every stitch is fascinating. Here are our top five picks for the year.

 

ZANJI ART

You probably never thought that cutlery would make a beautiful ornament around your neck or wrists. Njee Muturi, the artisan behind this fascinating idea, creates amazing jewelry from old and rejected cutlery, giving them a fine finish that is worth your money.

 

DEBBIE OYUGI (Baby Shower Kenya)

Designing childrens’ clothes is not a simple task. These designers have to consider the right fabric as well as convincing mothers that their child will look just fine in a kitenge material. Debbie Oyugi, founder of Baby Shower Kenya, proves otherwise. She is leading the way by designing admirable bespoke fashion that is fit for every child. From knit-wear to lace, she makes your baby look like they are descended from royalty.

 

KIPATO UNBRANDED

Started in August 2015 by Marta Krajnik, Kipato Unbranded is all about intricate jewelry using brass, recycled bones and beads. They collaborate with local artists, promoting their talents and skills and giving them access to the markets and hence is a social justice enterprise.

 

KATUNGULU MWENDWA

If there is a box anywhere in the world, Katungulu Mwendwa thinks outside it. Her designs are ethnically inspired, with a fuse of the modern world. From Turkana to the Digo and Maasai, she brings African history back to life.

 

MANCINY MIGWI

She has mastered the art of male designs and seems brave at whatever idea she tries to incorporate. In short, she has the authority of telling a man what to wear and what they would look great in. she refers to her designs as ‘Modern Africa’ and her principle is, “Being male is a matter of birth, and being a man is a matter of age, but being a gentleman is a matter of choice.” Within this principle, Manciny’s Urban Gentleman Collection caters to the modern day gentleman, developing a certain wardrobe style that complements the male personality.