ETHICAL FASHION - LALESSO

By Eva Fydrych

African Summer

Lalesso Spring/Summer 2013 (Photo courtesy of Lalesso)

Lalesso is an African fashion brand founded by Olivia Kennaway and Alice Heusserin in 2005. The girls, who met while studying fashion design in Cape Town, launched the label after an inspirational trip to Lamu Island, off the north coast of Kenya. 

Lalesso's trademark is the African inspired textiles used in all collections. The designers mix the traditional 'lesso' / 'khanga' prints with contemporary design. The final effect is mesmerizing: modern cut, vibrant colours, unique patterns, and eye-catching details such as hand-carved coconut shell buttons or Masai beading. The designs are accompanied by bold colourful accessories.

All photos courtesy of Lalesso

It is worth mentioning that Lalesso not only promotes the creative talents of African artisans, but also creates sustainable and fair employment in some of the poorest regions in Kenya. All their garments are produced under strict ethical and fair-trade practices and support the local textile industry.

The brand captures the essence of an endless African summer, freedom and adventure. Celebrity fans include Kate Moss, Sienna Miller, Kimora Lee Simmons, Elle McPherson, Estelle and Mary Charteris.

Lalesso Spring/Summer 2013 collection will be shown at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week CAPE TOWN on 28 July 2012.

Lalesso Spring/Summer 2013

All photos courtesy of Lalesso

ABOUT LASSO / KHANGA

The khanga is a printed cotton garment, about 1.5m by 1m, worn by women and occasionally by men throughout Eastern Africa. It is usually very colourful, with bold patterns and a decorated border around the main design. One of the longer edges of the mji (central part of the garment) features a strip which contains a proverb in Swahili. Example: Majivuno hayafai - Greed is never useful.

The word 'khanga' comes from the old Bantu (Kiswahili) verb ku-kanga which means 'to wrap' or ' to close'. 

Source: Wikipedia

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