African influence in the west

Roberto Cavalli’s Spring/Summer 2008 collection called “La Ma Africa” in Milan.

Looks like designers are borrowing from African prints whereas before it was only about the Safari suit and animal prints looks like they are going deeper.

Jamhuri wear

Jeffrey Kimathi - Jamhuri Wear

Interview by Elias Mageto

Jamati: What inspired you to start Jamhuri Wear?
Kimathi: I felt there was a void in the way Africa was being represented in the Fashion industry, The continent was bringing the models, but not dressing them.
So we wanted to add on to the story.

Jamati: Are there any Designers you look to for inspiration?

Kimathi: Yes, cause once one is lifted others are inspired and these are the few that inspire me…Moshood, Oswald Boatang Fundi Frank, Ralph Lauren, Stone Cherry and of course Russell Simmons

Jamati: Now, the main reason I really wanted the world to hear about you is because of how well you’ve managed to place your products. I mean I’ve seen your T-shirts on everyone from Akon to Jay-Z. Who else wears Jamhuri themed shirts and who would you like to see wearing your T-Shirts?

Kimathi: Like you said , Jay– Z, Tom Morello, Akon, K’naan, and Damian Marley. Some one I would love to see wearing one of my pieces is none other than the future president of the free world himself Barack Obama.

Jamati: What’s in store for Jamhuri Wear? Do you have any intentions of
expanding the line?

Kimathi: Absolutely…we will get into the full range of outfits and divesity for our customers.. and just keep putting out that fresh dope stuff we have been known to bring.. It’s just a matter of time We’re also doing other things with the Jamhuri brand,though.

Jamati: Really, When and what can we expect to see next?
Kimathi: We believe that every story needs a soundtrack so we are doubling in Music and visuals as well, We are just as exicted to be able to do this.
Jamati: Besides fashion, what other things interest you?

Kimathi: A lot man; We are into infusing and attaching our heritage to repackaging that African IMAGE and promoting this Safari Lifestyle. We understand this will encompass a lot of facets of life…and we trying to get better at all this and still do it well, that’s the enjoyment of it cause we don’t have any boundaries…Its all about dignity to us.

Jamati: Bwana Kimathi, thanks for your time. Before I let you get back to
your busy schedule, do you have any advice for young entrepreneurial minds
like yourself that want to break into the game?

Kimathi: LIVE IT! LEARN IT! AND LOVE IT! That’s what I do everyday now.
I had a choice to work a safe career, but instead I took a chance. It’s not
easy but if you get joy out of it then go for it!


Jamhuri Wear LLC|New York, NY|Phone: 1 800 9 Jamhuri

Jamhuri@jamhuriwear.com
www.jamhuriwear.com
www.myspace.com/jamhuriwear

SAHARAN VIBE

Found this amazing blog by South Africa designer who I greatly admire here is the blog "Started up in 2001 by Vanya and Thando Mangaliso, Sun Goddess has now flourished into one of South Africa's most sought after labels. Vanya and Thando started the Sun Goddess fashion label selling skirts out of the boot of their car. Four years down the line Sungoddess had employed 30 people. The garments are designed and produced in Johannesburg."

South Africa fashion

The South African designers have a very rich environment to nurture such beautiful talent.

I like these