Fashion

ap fashion: designer spotlight: meet tamu thomas of kenema

June 13, 2014

Summer has left me with some time to browse the Internet and I am continually inspired by artists and designers of this generation who transcend the realm of fashion and art. I believe I was browsing MDMflow’s Tumblr page and came across a patterned top ands short set—vibrant colors, geometric shapes, crisp and perfect for strutting down the streets for any season, whether it is the bomber jacket, top or trouser pant.
Meet London based designer Tamu Thomas, of Kenema, the clothing line born out of her yearning to start a company that would “defy the myth that African fashion is only for people of the African Diaspora.” Kenema began with focus on women’s clothing but has grown to selling unisex items, the line “Interlude.” Kenema takes a sort of “AfroFuturist” spin mixed with modernity and the heavy influences of African identity within the global community.

By Aliyah Blackmore, AFROPUNK Contributor *


In February of 2014, Thomas had the wonderful opportunity to exhibit her work in the Earth Matters exhibition at the Smithsonian Museum of African Art—her fashion is truly art with the structures, intricate patterns, and beautifully shocking colors , Thomas definitely creates statement pieces.


Kenema uses “traditional African textiles and wax cotton to create modern styles” while the items symbolize Thomas’ life experiences as “a 1st generation Londoner of West African parentage.” Kenema combines Thomas’ perspective on London’s countless “cultural influences from language to music with roots steeped in West African tradition.” I am in love with the Dare green Trousers—perfect for the summer, with a wedge or bootie and crisp white tee!


“Kenema is a socially conscious brand sourcing fabric in West Africa ethically, supporting projects that promote female entrepreneurship, education for women and projects that have a direct impact on local communities in Sierra Leone.” -Tamu Thomas


Check out Kenema by Tamu Thomas and support!

Site: http://www.kenema-clothing.com/

Shop: http://www.kenemaco.com/shop/

Instagram: @kenemagirl

Facebook: Kenema

* Aliyah Blackmore on Tumblr: echoesofnoise

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