Hot Upcoming Fashion Design Houses

Sewe Kenya

This fashion house founded by Calvin Sewe is for the fashion forward bunch. He customises statement pieces for glamorous events such as award ceremonies, graduation parties, themed birthday parties and the like and specialises in two-pieces, gowns, dresses and jumpsuits. What's more, he works with a range of material such as shimmery fabric, satin as well as African print fabric and has been seen dressing the likes of radio presenter Anita Nderu and reality TV star Pendo.

2. Ogake Mosomi

Ogake Mosomi founded her top-notch brand back in 2013 and has since become a force to be reckoned with. Known primarily for her custom-made bridal gowns, she also dabbles in evening wear and bridal accessories which include bridal shower t-shirts and robes, headpieces (fascinators, veils, hair pins and clips), belts and garters. Her designs have been seen on celebrities like Adelle Onyango who wore a Ogake Mosomi gown for her wedding, Betty Kyalo for the inside spread of True Love August 2017, and Anita Nderu's marvelous gown at the Kenya Fashion Awards launch. Her store is located in Kilimani and operates by appointment.

3. El Afrique

El Afrique is a Kenyan fashion design house founded by Whitney Nasanga. It deals in bespoke wear for men and women and specialises in African print designs including pencil skirts, maxi dresses and coats. The designs are always up-to-date with the latest trends. This year, the brand launched its office wear line and has expanded to custom outfits for wedding parties and they incorporate satin, organza and mint linen in their range of fabrics. El Afrique has dressed Lady JD for the United Sounds of Africa concert as well as the rapper Wangechi. Located on the 3rd floor of Jadala Place, off Ngong Lane, this is a one-stop shop for all your African print needs.

Photo by: Mwangi Wachira, Model: Leah Ngechu

4. AfroStreet Kollection

Founded in 2011 by Yvonne Odhiambo, AfroStreet Kollection is slowly becoming a leading fashion house in Kenya. The brand has dressed multiple celebrities in Kenya and Africa. The designs are primarily Ankara mixed with lace, chiffon, stretch fabric, linen, khaki and many different fabrics to bring out the African culture with a western touch to it. The brand's most notable work can be seen on celebrity musicians taking part in the Coke Studio Africa music show. Among their clients are Kenyan boy band Sauti Sol too.