....journey of an eco fashion brand...

Showcasing AKABI=Love at LOVELounge for the "Love Fashion Show"

2010-09-17T03:43:00.001-07:00

AKABI design showcasing at LOVE LOUNGE with performances on the night from

►GUVNA B
►COCO DUPRE
►DARLEEN
► GREENJADE
► MATSHIDISO
and Host none other than Queen of Blessed Souls: Adelaide Mackenzie

AKabi Design showcases at Love Lounge's 1st fashion show entitled
“ LOVE FASHION SHOW” in support and partnership with Dynasty PR★ In conjunction with London Fashion Week 2010

HELD AT “DAHLAK” 256-258 Brixton Road Sw9 6AQ
http://thedahlaklounge.co.uk/
:: DOORS OPEN: 8:15PM
:: SHOWCASE STARTS AT 9:15PM TILL 12:00AM
:: 12:00AM TILL 2:30AM EXCLUSIVE AFTERPARTY

★ADMISSION: £5 BEFORE 9:15 £8 AFTER
★║●•●DRESS CODE: STYLISH AND FASHIONABLE●•●║
✦✧PHOTOGRAPHY::: CREATIVE PIECE
✦✧➾DJ-KELECHI ON THE ONES AND TWOS PLAYING ONLY THE BEST ➾NIGHT WILL BE FILMED BY "GOSPEL DAILY"***FOOD AND DRINKS ON SALE ON THE NIGHT***

✧✦✧✦✧DIRECTIONS✧✦✧✦✧
Nearest station Brixton underground (Victoria line)
Bus: 133, 333, 159, 2, 595min drive from Brixton underground.
Venue is situated on the main road.>>>>>>>>GOOD FREE PARKING<<<<<<<
or more information: Email: ✉lovelounge@hotmail.co.uk✉ ☎

The Hub Fashion Week - Addis Ababa

2010-09-14T02:54:00.000-07:00

From September 23-25th 2010 see such a great event happening in east africa called the Hub Fashion Week and conference titled UNITING THE INDUSTRY FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT.

A friend from the Ethical Fashion Forum will be helping out. We both have very similar desires to build a bridge between Africa and Europe through the medium of fashion and I see us connecting together on this passion very shortly :)

We at Akabi feel that great things are emerging from Africa and are always excited to see events happening there especially in the sustainable and ethical fashion and textile arena.

They set up this event as they noticed a growing need for an annual event that focuses on sustainable development in society as well as focusing on education through job development, and so along with fashion shows will have workshops by industry people such as Nicola Thornley a good friend of us here at Akabi. There will be various people from the textile industry such as designers, buyers/sellers and various fashion institutes. The idea is to bring in leading fashion designers and industry players in order to mentor up-coming designers through these workshops.

Uniting the industry through fashion and promoting sustainable development is the way to go. We look forward to hearing reviews and feedback from this week.

Article from Agent Magazine

2010-08-30T09:23:00.000-07:00

AKABI design is getting out there even more on the blogosphere and onto online mags too.

Here are the recent uploads in the last week.

Firstly Agent2Magazine

They say "...THE BLISTERING SUMMER ISN’T THE ONLY THING BRINGING A HEAT WAVE TO LONDON. SUSTAINABLE AFRICAN WOMENSWEAR BRAND AKABI SHOWCASED ITS GOOD-NATURED, PRETTY PRINTED COLLECTION IN JULY... INSPIRED BY THE STRENGTHS AND ATTITUDES OF THE CONTEMPORARY FEMALE ‘URBANITE’.... GET IT WHILE YOU CAN AS THIS ETHICAL BRAND ONLY PRODUCES ONE COLLECTION A YEAR...".

Great piece guys!

Then one of my new favourite African fashion blogs is Shop Liquorice

They say "...what makes Akabi Design different, given that several other brands have the same selling points? Their pieces tell quite the story and it is clear an abundance of thought has gone into every aspect of production...Certainly very refreshing!"

Love the write up and promotions of great African made/based fashion brands and glad to be noted as one of them!

AKABI Looking 'Devine'

2010-08-30T09:12:00.000-07:00

Check out the latest pics from the Untitled show

This was a very interesting night filled with fashion and dance and music and singers. Well done to the young team who organised it. We had a great time and was great to see the responses from those viewing the collection for the first time.

Here are pics from the night (courtesy of the Devi niche team)

Shingai Shoniwa - covered in PRIDE

2010-08-05T03:02:00.000-07:00

Shingai Shoniwa who along with Janelle Monae are two of my favourite fashion muses and this month see Shingai on the cover of Pride magazine.

I hold my reservations towards Pride (bad previous experience) BUT i do respect their position in the marketplace for black consumers, professionals and interests.

Shingai looks stunning though and this proves to be one of my favourite Pride mag covershoots :)

Vogue Africa dies before its birth :(

2010-07-20T09:03:00.000-07:00

It is BIG news on blogoville that talented photographer and make-up artist Mario Epanya fantastic and beautiul campaign for an African edition of Vogue has unfortunately come to an end.

The Vogue Africa’s facebook page last week read “DEAR ALL, this is the last cover of Vogue Africa, Condé Nast said no for (a) license. Thank you for all your support. It’s a beginning of something.”

There are different views on this, that it doesnt and cant represent the whole of Africa which is always so diverse from east to west north to south, then there are thoughts that Africa on a whole has wider issues to deal with then a cosmopolitan fashion industry, then there was hype and fury over and not to mention financial success of the special issue of the all Black Vogue Italia in 2008 which caused such a fury that it prompted a re-printing.
I am still upset that even though i was in Venice the month it launched yet still couldnt get a copy...go figure! - sold out OR lack of availability in Italy????

Either way as black woman myself in a black community of women, it is apparent that Black people are women in particular are interested in seeing modern, sexy, quality, high fashion images which represents us in a global publication such as Vogue. For now Arise,

SHE Caribbean Magazine,

New African Woman magazine | Facebook

and Canoe continue to represent - but then if i get on to these and IF they actually do represent black women of today...mmmh we could start a WHOLE new debate

in the meantime say goodbye to what could have been a beautiful magazine

2 fashion shows featuring AKABI this week!

2010-07-19T03:30:00.000-07:00

ITS ALL LIVE THIS WEEK WITH 2 FASHION SHOWS featuring AKABI!

Beautiful people Akabi invite you to another fashion showcase in collaboration with BlessedSoulsUk

This Wed 21st July at Corks Wine Bar, Binney Street off Oxford Street, nearest tube Bond street station
free b4 8pm, £5 thereafter

NOTE people for those who have been asking about how to buy goods, styles and accessories will be available to purchase on the night!!

AKABI also invite you to another fashion showcase this time at the UNTITLED fashion and music extravaganza held by the Deviniche team see http://untitled.me.uk/

Taking place at the Regent Banqueting Suite, 331 Regents Park Road, NW1 nearest tube Finchley Central and sponsored by Sweet Tooth Cakes, L'Oreal and Ben TV and choreographered by D'relle aka Prince Xavier this is looking to be a night not to be missed.

Doors open at 6pm, champagne reception from 6.30pm

see you there!

Cancellation :(

2010-06-22T07:20:00.001-07:00

Unfortunately the Christian Aid Power Dressing show has been cancelled due to reasons unforeseen....

A disappointment but they have hopes and plans to reschedule it to another date.

Christian Aid apologises to everyone directly affected.

j'Quita
AKABI=Love

FASHIONCH4NGE - Changing Lives through Fashion

2010-06-21T03:36:00.000-07:00

At AKABI we are supporting Fashion4Change a great organisation set up by Abigail Okunlola - a lovely lady with a vision to see fashion change lives.

Check out the blog http://www.fashion4change.org.uk/ and the facebook group too for info on the last swishing event which was a great event to attend.

Above all look out for developments in the future and the work the F4C will be doing in Kenya.

Power Dressing Fashion Event

2010-06-17T07:54:00.000-07:00

People AKABI will be participating in a fashion event sponsored by Christian Aid and will be showcasing along with other designers. Its looking to be a very very good night out and personal invite you all to come and enjoy!

See below for details :)

Power Dressing is fashion show and Live music event like no other.

Christian Aid and Platform 2 have encapsulated the theme of africa and its vibrant lifestyle to put together a night of african fashion with the aim of spreading the word of empowerment.

Hosted by Simply Andy, the acts include The Thirst, Alim Kamara, Plus more surprise acts on the night

Fashion designers showcasing their elegant pieces include: AKABI as well as Oheme Ohene, Chichia London, Kiko Romeo,Mia Nisbit & Ruweyda Dool.

DATE: June 27th 2010

TIME: 6.30PM - 10.30PM - SHOW STARTS 7PM
AFTERPARTY 10PM - 3AM

ADDRESS: Bar Music Hall, 134 Curtain road London
EC2A 3AR

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

PRICE: £6 advance tickets available at http://tinyurl.com/powerdressing
£10 on the door all night

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

Dresscode: Casual Normal/No tracksuits

NEAREST STATIONS: Old Street and Liverpool

See you there!!-

SUNO - keep it coming!

2010-06-17T07:48:00.000-07:00

I have loved this brand from I first set eyes on it (wow I sound like a love story right now!) and every season they just get better and better. In my eyes they (as well as Chichia - love ya girl) have best represented the use of East African fabrics.

Probably due to logistics, sourcing and not keeping yourself locked down - the need for growth and expansion they do have plans to source fabrics from other global regions not just Kenya but their business does support Kenya manufacturing and fabrics in various ways.

Keep it up Suno...love ya BIG TIME!

(pics courtesy of Ciaafrique blog)

LOVE FROM AFRICA tee supporting Africa in World Cup 2010

2010-06-04T02:02:00.000-07:00

In alignment with the SA World Cup Akabi are selling the Akabi Love From Africa Tee.

This will be for sale on the Akabi website (launch just days away people!) but if interested now then email your interest to info@akabidesign.com

Akabi Love From Africa Tee - Green

* 100% GOTS Certified Organic Ring-spun Combed Cotton Sheer Jersey - 120gm

* Regular-fit tee made from East African organic cotton

* Made in Tanzania

* 'Love From Africa' chest graphic in contrast - printed with environmentally friendly dyes

Size Small
Medium

Webprice = £18 A STEAL!!

Remember 10% of all sales is donated to Seed of Hope charity part of Vision Africa in Kenya which works to bring hope for a brighter future to orphaned, destitute and disadvantaged teenage girls in Kenya.

New photos in from launch party

2010-05-30T11:18:00.000-07:00

hey!

here are a few extra pics to whet your appetites!

Note that this 2010 is all LIMITED EDITION. If there are pieces you are interested in then take note and contact me at info@akabidesign.com.

The Akabi Etsy shop will be open mid June for the wax print fabric jewellery pieces and the website is due to launch over the next week where you can view and purchase pieces. Including new pieces coming in June....

Akabi will also be attending various events over the next few summer months where you can also buy pieces at so keep an eye out for the facebook updates for where and when to purchase.

(pics courtesy of Zavlue Photography 2010 - copyright designs Akabi 2010 - all rights reserved)

Remember every piece of clothing is LIMITED EDITION. Only a few pieces of each style made per colour and so once they are gone....they are gone...dont miss out.

j'Quita
AKABI=Love

Canoe delicious MOCHA front cover

2010-05-30T11:11:00.000-07:00

Canoe Magazine / Canoe Africa latest edition has an absolutely gorgoeous front cover piece...i love the colours, the photo the whole composition...simple but v. effective.

No copies available in UK though...will have to get my boyfr to send one to me from Ghana....

i just love this!
pics c/o http://canoeafrica.com/index.html

Akabi prelaunch fashion event - pics are in!

2010-05-27T04:52:00.000-07:00

People here are a few snapshots of the show last night.

It was an awesome affair and I appreciate all who turned up to view the collection.

Photos are care of Frances Akinde and more can be viewed on the launch of the website Bank Holiday monday.

Well done to all models, photographers, creative team and all the supporters.

Fellow Followers...your thoughts please

2010-05-20T03:39:00.000-07:00

hey all...

I am appreciative of all who are following this blog and would like your thoughts and suggestions.

How do you feel about the blog on a whole?

What learnings have you got from my journey of developing my brand?

How do you feel about the info on African designers, Art, Music, Fashion etc etc?

Would you be interested in following a blog purely devoted to these things?

What else would you like to see?

Post your comments share your thoughts, on here and/or on my facebook.com/akabidesign

I am considering developing this website, have a few ideas but would appreciate your thoughts

have a blessed one!

Dont forget to make your way down to the prelaunch party! Dont miss out !
j'Quita

Pre Launch party...Wed 26th May!

2010-05-18T06:00:00.000-07:00

Be there or miss out!

See pieces before web launch too!

How beautiful does Alek Wek look!

2010-05-18T05:54:00.000-07:00

Fantastic photography and work by Andrew Yee for Financial Times magazine.

She looks amazing! I dont care about the old hype about this girl being a model - she is beautiful and what legs! my days...if only i could have half of her leg length...mmmmmmh

Pre Launch party...its coming!

2010-05-18T04:33:00.000-07:00

Make your way down to the party of the season! Akabi prelaunch party is happening May 26th
See flyer for more info!

The Conservatives manifesto for businesses:

2010-05-13T02:17:00.000-07:00

The Conservatives manifesto for businesses:

‘Our goal is simple: to make Britain the easiest and the best place in the world to set up and grow a business.
We will:

Stop Labour's jobs tax that will kill the recovery;
Cut Corporation Tax rates. We will cut the main rate from 28p to 25p and the small companies' rate from 22p to 20p, funded by reducing complex reliefs;
Exempt all new businesses starting in the first two years of a Conservative Government from Employers' National Insurance on the first ten employees they hire in the first year;
Reduce the burden of red tape on business with a 'one in one out' rule for new regulation and regulatory budgets for departments so that new regulations cannot be introduced unless the burden is reduced elsewhere. And we will give the public the opportunity to force the worst regulations to be repealed;
Reduce the number of forms needed to register a new business – moving towards a 'one-click' registration model – with the aim of making Britain the fastest place in the world to start a business. We will also end restrictions on people starting a business in social housing to enable social tenants to become entrepreneurs;
Simplify business taxes. In our first Budget, we will set out a five year road map for the direction of business tax reform, providing greater certainty and stability to businesses. We will create an independent Office of Tax Simplification to review and suggest reforms to the tax system and its effect on small business, including IR35;
Extend government procurement to small and medium-sized businesses by cutting administrative requirements, with the aim of seeing 25 per cent of government contracts go to SMEs;
Make Britain Europe’s leading hi-tech exporter of manufactured goods by implementing Sir James Dyson’s recommendations to boost science and engineering.
Make small business rate relief automatic; and
Create more diverse sources of available credit for SMEs building on our proposals for a big, bold and simple National Loan Guarantee Scheme.

To create a new generation of small businesses, our Work for Yourself programme will help move people into self-employment. We will build a network of business mentors and offer substantial loans to would-be entrepreneurs, supporting self-employment and franchising as a route back into work. We will work with specialist organisations that already have a proven track record in this area, like the Prince’s Trust and the Bright Ideas Trust, to offer the best support.
We understand that enterprise will generate a sustainable recovery, not the state - that's why we need to make Britain open for business again.’

this makes a big impact on how i develop things ... mmmmmhhh
(info from fashioncapital.co.uk website)

Pre-launch Party!

2010-05-09T13:01:00.001-07:00

This month Akabi design will be celebrating the launch of our website with a pre-launch party.

Details will follow shortly.....

excited?
i sure am!
J'Quita

The Rape of Africa

2010-05-06T03:19:00.000-07:00

Evening Standard talked about the work of this creative extraordinare and mentioned his latest exhibition
taking place in London at Robilant and Voena from 27th April to 25th May 2010...just a few weeks to go so better get down there too!

The Rape of Africa

(http://www.fadwebsite.com/wp-content/uploads/David-LaChapelle-Rape-of-Africa.jpg)

This photo below is based on the notorious artist Botticelli's painting of Venus and Mars. (i love Botticellis work!) and will be on show with other work by Lachapelle with a vast range to showcase his skill and talent.

Western consumerism
Much of his work including that featured in the Rape of Africa exhibition looks at the nature of western consumerism and the direct effects it has on Africa and its people. Previous series such as Deluge and Jesus is My Homeboy, both of which were exhibited at Robilant and Voena back in 2008, contain similar themes. This critique of the western world versus the continent of Africa is made explicit by his use of significant details and symbols throughout the photos.

The event is set to be open to the general public
Time: Monday – Friday (10am – 6pm) each day from the 27th of April – 25th of May 2010.
Restrictions: No age restrictions
Venue: Robilant and Voena
1st floor, 38 Dover Street,
London, W1S 4NL

You can hear David LaChapelle's latest interview about the show on the BBC World Service http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/news/2010/04/100427_lachapelle_rapeofafrica.shtml

Have you heard yet?

2010-05-06T03:03:00.001-07:00

We are on facebook at www.facebook.com/akabidesign - join up, add us and join our group too akabidesign

also follow us on twitter.com/akabidesign

stay connected!

Welcome!

2010-05-04T02:49:00.000-07:00

I am seeing you new followers and welcome you along this journey with me.

Akabi design has come a long way over the last year and we are nearly at the end of stage one. We will celebrate the launch with a fashion show maybe 2!! over june and july and hope you are able to attend.

keep on reading, make your comments, give your thoughts suggestions and above all your support.

Love = Akabi
x

Pop Africana out now!

2010-05-04T02:35:00.000-07:00

Love the blog love the concept ... mag is out im gettting it now! i suggest you do too

http://www.popafricana.com/

Its a semi annual mag with a blog and a large following. I see this first edition below being on the levels of Another mag.

Its def one to invest in!

:)

Next steps

2010-04-30T04:42:00.000-07:00

The production from Kenya is on its way!

Production from Ghana is being done now....a few weeks and it will be completed.

Hangtags received for clothing and accessories!

Website is on its way to completion

Aiming for an end May launch with fashion show in June....ssssooo exciting!

Newspaper dress!!

2010-04-28T03:03:00.001-07:00

I love this students work.

based at the London College of Fashion it kind of has an ethical bridal and evening feel to it!

Positive use of newspaper and witty shoot too!

Very Gary Harvey too :)

(All photos and designs - Jack Hoe - http://londoncollegeoffashion.net/photo/paper-12?context=latest)

Ethical Fashion Forum Social Networking Event

2010-04-26T07:04:00.000-07:00

The Ethical Fashion Forums' FASHION SOCIAL NETWORK EVENT is on this Thursday 29th April, 7 - 9pm at the Environmental Justice Foundation Pop Up Shop (57 Carnaby Street, London) in partnership with Environmental Justice Foundation, Forum for the Future and Think Act Vote

There will be a talk to question what does the future hold in ethical fashion alongside presentations too including Forum for the Future's Fashion Futures 2025 this event promises to give you a vision of the future of fashion.

Think Act Vote's founder Amisha Ghadiali will be asking you 'What future do you choose?' and promoting her campaign to inspire us to think positively about our future and the votes we cast, today, tomorrow and forever.

This event is free to attend but the charities involved encourage attendees to contribute to their worthy causes by donating. The Pop Up Shop stocks a selection of some of the most interesting ethical and sustainable brands including Goodone, Katharine Hamnet, From Somewhere, Pants To Poverty as well as EJF's and Think Act Vote's campaign t-shirts.

Will be getting myself down there and look forward to seeing you there!

Darkroom Concept Store

2010-04-26T07:00:00.000-07:00

Im making my way down to the Darkroom concept store on Lambs Conduit Street this week to check out the cool pieces of 'wearable art' they present and also to check out their 'into Africa' exhibition.

Word on the street says its looking to be a goodone to visit but as always i wanna check it out for myself :)

interesting pieces including some jewellery styles in fabric by Michelle Lowe-Holder below...
(pics courtesy of Style Bubble)

Alternating fashion...

2010-04-23T03:36:00.001-07:00

I managed to get down the the lovely Spitalsfields market (such a cool area....east london you rule) and watched designers showcase their creations at the Alternative Fashion Week 2010.
It was.....mmmmhh...interesting.

Not particularly my favourite show but some interesting who should possibly be showing at more prestigious events. I must admit that some of the pieces were really conceptual and some very very commercial.

My favourite was Tramp in Disguise, Anna Wilkinson and Mary Ratcliffe.

Mary Ratcliffe is a tutor of fashion and a designer who puts together secondhand clothing in a fun quirky and very topshop way in my opinion.

I love the accessories which have been customised and the little bow ankle covers - great stuff Mary!

Africa Weekender 2010!

2010-04-22T06:04:00.000-07:00

This looks interesting and unfortunately have missed the deadline for the fashion show but may still go down there for a day and promote and network and connect myself...gotta get the word out !

This is happening on weekend of May 21st - 24th and with loads going on its bound to be a good one! Being the launch too makes it exciting to be there from the beginning too!

Africa Weekender

check it out!

SAWA shoes

2010-04-20T07:41:00.000-07:00

I am loving this shoe brand with their made in Africa product.

SAWAthey dont promise to donate money from sales BUT they promise to make their product and source their materials in Africa which I feel is quite a big statement and they prove that it is possible.

I love the notebooks!

David Adjaye - Urban Africa exhibition at Design Museum

2010-04-15T03:29:00.000-07:00

I really looked forward to seeing it and really liked it even more now. 10years in the making...wow...this man has focus and drive!

I must say the photography was not as creative in places and alot of the pics looked like holiday snaps...i was speaking with an ex BBC employee who had travelled alot around Africa for work and she also agreed it was very holiday snappy. I think not as much thought into the look of each photo. He broke the snaps down for each country and there were alot of similarities abut ALOT of differences and often it was easy to see the affect of the French colonies and the Islamic parts of Africa in the architecture. The overview of languages and religions etc visualized through the maps was also pretty interesting too

BUT that saying this the pictures showed a realistic view on the cities in major African countries and I will definitely be referencing this for my uni project. And I am more inspired to go to more African countries and to learn and study more about this fantastic and interesting continent of the world.

Re David I must look more into his work too.

Overall I would recommend the exhibition for sure!

Sustainable Futures more PICS

2010-04-15T02:47:00.000-07:00

Christopher Raeburn pieces were also presented as seen beneath pic of Dilys from CSF (Centre for Sustainable Fashion) below...
and PUMA CEO Jochen Zeitz with Designer Ozwald Boateng...discussing made in Africa product...amongst things.

These pieces brought alot of food for thought. A420 Sustainability for Designers

And Changing Habbits noted as 'an online programme created to calculate our carbon footprint and we can identify which parts of our lifestyle have the greatest environmental impact'.

Quite scary!

Sustainable Futures PICS - PUMA at Design Museum

2010-04-15T02:45:00.000-07:00

Sustainable Futures PICS - PUMA at Design Museum

There was interesting view of elements and minerals being endangered over the next 80 years and this was displayed in the format of the periodic table. Quite interesting and yet very concerning too.

Here was ths PUMA display showing there Clever Little Bag Concept! Loving it!

Puma Sustainable ~Exhibition last night

2010-04-14T14:23:00.000-07:00

I must say PUMA did put on a good event and an interesting exhibition last night at the private viewing of their event at the Design Museum. There were a few familiar faces in the fashion industry such as Oswald Boateng who was in long conversations with Jochen Zeitz (PUMA CEO) talking about made in africa product...okay so I eavesdropped...isnt that what you would do :) :) Then the lovely Dilys from Centre for Sustainable Fashion at LCF was there so was good to catch up with her too. Mark Coetze (pronounced cute-zeee not CO-ET-ZEEE as i thought!!) from PUMA Creative of course had to be there and it was pleasant to talk with him too. Quite an easy one to converse with.

Pics to post following and I even got to view the photographic work of previously mentioned David Adjayes' work. I was EXTREMELY inspired by this and it made me more determined to get around Africa and see as many countries there as possible. Its interesting how ones preconceived ideas of particular countries can be so wrong and so easily changed from anothers experience and perspective. I could go on and on about this show as it gave alot of room for thought.

Having been a few PUMA events now I personally found that overall this was one of the better ones and there was so much interesting pieces in the exhibition that makes you rethink design and sustainability including PUMAs new shoebox and bag in one.....Clever little bag reminds me (im sure purposely done) of Big Brown Bag etc from Bloomingdales. But this reduces waste and a great innovative design concept.

Christopher Raeburns pieces were there amongst many other pieces relating to sustainability in fashion, architecture, food, science and more.

Oh and even better was the free Burritos outside and the free wine - though i was warned from a student friend not to have the red wine...so i quickly decided on the wine and any other free extras given away...:)

Photos I will upload in the morning.

Alternative Fashion Week 2010

2010-04-06T02:31:00.000-07:00

Another one to visit!

Alternative Fashion Week is happening from 21 – 23rd April at Spitalfields Traders Market, Crispin Place, Brushfield Street, E1 6AA

This is a major event publicly funded that happens every year and presents creative and original collections by new designers from the UK and abroad too with an emphasis on environmental awareness and ethical sourcing.. Each day a show will be hosted from 1.15pm and there is also an open marketplace too.

And it is free admission is free including a programme listing every designer and they gather collections for Barnardo’s and the Spitalfields Crypt Trust charities.

I haven't been for years so its time I get up there to see who is doing what and of course for research!

See you there!

Sustainable Futures - Design Museum

2010-04-06T02:24:00.001-07:00

One to visit

At the Design Museum
from March 31st to 5th September 2010 this exhibition is organised in association with Puma.Safe and titled ‘Sustainable Futures’there will be various design projects explore sustainability issues showing ways design can direct and present a more positive view working towards a more sustainable future.

Looks like an interesting one...i will be up there next tuesday for a private viewing care of PumaCreative
thanks guys! :)

Centre for Sustainable Fashion

2010-04-01T08:55:00.000-07:00

I had my first workshop with the CSF at London College of Fashion this week. I am hoping that they will help me develop my business to the level and the pace that I wish to.

I met with a marketing friend too who also lead me to think about my desire to set up my foundation. The work outside design but still part of Akabi is the main bulk of the work I want to do with this business. I want to make a difference as well as make interesting and fun clothing.

I am also seeking to pursue my PhD within International Development and Trade .... gotta check out a few institutions now though I wont start until 2011.

Press in...

2010-03-25T07:17:00.001-07:00

Latibeau was credited on Flyer newspaper website

Pictures from the Mahogany Bridal Show featured Latibeau and the writer mentioned

Latibeau combined beautifully crafted silk dresses which oozed quality. The simplicity of her designs was reminiscent of classic Greek goddesses which stood out from the crowd.

In my opinion a great pic from the Finale with Latibeau dress up front...loving it

Recapping...Earth Hour

2010-03-23T15:33:00.000-07:00

Reminder....Earth hour scheduled 8.30pm on March 27th (not sure if that is GMT time - sorry folks) But its all about climate change and organised by WWF World Wildlife Federation who I am becoming a big fan of these days

Anyway its important for us all as habitants of mother earth so check it out pull the string and turn of your lights ;)

https://www.myearthhour.org

Latibeau at Mahogany Bridal Show

2010-03-22T04:36:00.000-07:00

I attended the Mahogany Bridal Show last to support the presentation of Latibeau ethical bridalwear ahead of their launch this summer. The company is named after the owner/directors great grandmothers maiden name and presents an ethical alternative to tradtional bridalwear and is set up as fairly traded social enterprise limited by guarantee.

They showed their bridesmaid dresses which will come as a collection of 16 silhouettes in a range of 10 colours made from sustainable and ethical material and will be presenting their bespoke couture wedding dresses later in the year.

They fill a very niche area and I see them going far.

They can be contacted at info@latibeau.com and will have a website up in a few weeks to present these dresses.

PUMA x Kehinde Wiley

2010-03-20T13:48:00.000-07:00

I could not go on without mentioning sports label PUMAs collaboration with artist Kehinde Wiley. This brothers artwork is crazy mad!

His african print influenced wallpaper portrait artwork is enough to drive the eyes dizzy but it is original and pretty cool.

http://bandit-magazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/Kehinde_Wiley_2.jpg

These jackets from his clothing line ... makes me kiss my teeth :) as i originally planned to launch very similar style I wanted to create BUT i must say I love the thought and proves great minds think alike!
(dont you worry AKABI will be presenting something with a new edge for y'all)

http://www.highsnobiety.com/news/2008/11/23/kehinde-wiley-launches-clothing-line/

And the project he has on with PUMA is an interesting one.

He is being supported to create artwork in his style of particular football stars from the African Nations teams whom PUMA support and he is being supported by them with an exhibition at the National Gallery South Africa. (all this SA talk makes me want to go and soon!....Z i know you wanna be there too...we SHALL go together ... im sure!)

here are some pumps by PUMA with Mr Wileys print style

http://www.shop.puma.co.uk/collections/lifestyle/kehinde-wiley+africa-lifestyle/63600,default,sc.html?source=hs1

And here is his original artwork inspired by his homeland... Africa - rock on brotha!
http://www.shop.puma.co.uk/on/demandware.store/Sites-Puma-GB-Site/default/Home-Show

2 Birthdays!

2010-03-19T04:47:00.000-07:00

Today I turn a year older, and this very month marks one year since I started Akabi.

It is a significant month and a very exciting one too.

I am putting together plans for the viral youtube campaign so watch this space as Akabi will be representing! in a big way.

I am inspired to get the staple bag piece AND new accessories to be added plus some summer dresses too. its all too exhilarating...I can barely contain my excitement!

Stockists

2010-03-16T09:00:00.000-07:00

Stockists are showing interest already and I dont even have the website up yet!

Will keep you posted...prepare yourself....
:)

Ghubar magazine

2010-03-16T08:21:00.000-07:00

I love the photography in this mag...very chic

http://ghubar-magazine.com/

Janelle

2010-03-16T06:26:00.000-07:00

I just love this girls funky hair....

http://flygirls.typepad.com/fly/2010/03/janelle-mon%C3%A1e-in-philly.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+flygirls+%28Fly%29

I am seeking a new do for a wedding in a few weeks and no i wont be doing the afro-quiff like Miss Monae BUT i am considering rocking the plait look...i.e huge cornrow plaits around front of hair look as seen on the catwalks recently....

see pic

http://the-oniomaniac.blogspot.com/2009/11/spring-2010-beauty-report-plaits-twists.html

I know i have been wearing the cornrows since i was like .... 5years old :) but i feel there are some very interesting styles out there to play around with. My friend had an interesting style done for the hen weekend we took away and I thought mmmhhh i need to create a new style as I do like to experiment with my braids.

Here I am in Rome last year with 'tail' plait curves from the front of head creating a question mark look.

Probably not right for a wedding but cool still...will keep developing...and yes that ice cream was DELICIOUS....the best fresh natural ice cream i have had ever...it was pineapple flavour. I hope to get back to Rome this year and will be getting that again...yum yum :)

Futurising Africa...

2010-03-16T05:25:00.000-07:00

Is that even a word :) The dictionary of Akabi....

SO i checked out Africa is the Future site..they have some nice new graphic tees

some old tees continuing...

and lovely buttons too!

These are my favourites

Watch out for Akabi's coming website with online store...there are a few cool pieces, nick nacks and accessories you can purchase.

The etsy store will soon be up too so you will have no excuse...but to be rocking Akabi and letting people know that you too are a Female with Style Intelligence!

Suno HO2010 range

2010-03-11T03:51:00.000-08:00

I have been watching Suno NY for a while now and still do love the work they produce...i mean heck 1st Lady Michelle Obama is rocking Suno too ! check out their press pages and they have ALOT of press.

Here is a snippet from their recent range but you need to check out the site to really see where I believe they are slightly changing direction as a brand aesthically. I have chosen the ones which still have the african fabric look but they have introduced some interesting pieces which look more like locally sourced fabrics rather than african fabrics.

Overall they are still doing well and give Asos Africa something to esteem to.

This looks a little different ... but i am still a fan.
(photos sourced from http://www.sunony.com/)

Website...the first view

2010-03-10T08:36:00.000-08:00

My web designer showed me the first version of the site he is working on for me for Akabi and i am very very pleased...exactly what I was looking for and cannot wait for it to be uploaded and ready to roll.

Its all becoming more and more real...and will be even more real once I make my first sale!!

Did i say already that I am more than likely to be supporting Seed of Hope as the charity i will sponsor through profits...their vision and their belief structure sits in well with Akabi designs mission statement and i have some plans to work with them on some projects in the future. But right now I am planning to get out to Kenya to visit the base and to offer my hand in help.

Re production well I have ordered my trims and they are slowly coming in.

The dresses i will add to the collection i am working on the colourways for the batik prints and getting that together to post out those patterns to Ghana factory in the next week. And thank God I have a helper! there is so much to do and this girl i met soome years back and simply encouraged her on her initial steps into fashion and now she is able to help me out at this busy time but I think she will learn alot. However i can empower her too I will. But help is much needed...I have been over doing it and have got a little run down so need to watch my health much more now...I am definitely not getting any younger and so need to care more for the body I have...Take note all take note :)

Beyonce rocks Africa

2010-03-09T04:38:00.000-08:00

Okay well i am a little late on this video but I love the use of African waxprint / Ankara...girls you look hot! But miss B ... not sure about all your goods on view...mmmhhh...im sure mr Z is happy but please sister...

Observer Ethical Awards

2010-03-08T12:34:00.000-08:00

Ok so I have ordered my labels...check, my tee shirts....check, factory in Kenya are ready to go...check and I now have a bit of help from a young designer student....check.....

Then I notice some eco competitions that I should consider entering....and was highlighted by a friend the Observer Ethical Awards

This is your opportunity to promote yourself! You must nominate yourself to be considered for an award, so don’t be shy – be proud of your work. Benefits include unrivalled profiling in the Observer Magazine, and amazing networking opportunities with potential investors, industry experts and pr-friendly celebs. This year the award is sponsored by Marie-Claire so no doubt there will be some editorial coverage to boot.
http://centreforsustainablefashion.wordpress.com/2010/03/01/observer-ethical-award-for-fashion-accessories-your-chance-to-be-recognised/

I had heard of it before but know i am not at the right place for this...but there are many competitions coming up and if not this year then definitely next. I just want to get the stuff out and sell sell sell and make Akabi known.

On ordering my labels due to budget I had to decide on buying basic labels saying just Akabi in normal text rather than upload my graphic logo as seen on header for blog...but for now as said its best to just get the word out and do what i can do financially as things are so tight right now.

Well I also start mentoring with Centre for Sustainable Fashion on March 30th so that should be interesting. Will keep you posted!

Update

2010-03-06T04:07:00.001-08:00

The last few weeks have been manic..working on my uni deadline, making wedding and bridesmaid dresses for a friends wedding, preparing for a bridal catwalk, doing a bridal photoshoot AND organising production for Akabi. Phew that is a lot and it won't be over until end of march the earliest.

So for now due to financial restraints ... Again ... I will just make up a very small production run making the pieces limited edition. The kenya factory are being wonderful in allowing me to do this with the hope that next seasons range summer 2011 will meet their MOQ (minimum order quantity) of 100 pieces. The other stuff I have split between the Ghana factory and the UK factory. Oh on that note HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY GHANA 53 years... Wow! Speaking to mentor David though I should be able to sell closer to my wholesale price rather than outpricing myself with the retail price as I won't be selling through the big stores I want to as yet.

I am happy to have my first customer though so gotta get all made for mid august ready to sell. I am also happy to have found a shoelace/drawcord supplier, a zip supplier and label maker all north of england and supplying in the small quantities I need so that is good. So today I will order and ship them off to Kenya and Ghana as needed.

I will be adding a few batik dress styles to the mix. Using the same print as the jackets which is from my logo and doing them in bright colours and summer dress styles selling for around 35 to 45 GBP. These will be printed and made in Ghana as preparation for next summers range. I need to find out about some shows for may and june to brinmg in more sales and promotion. Also getting the youtube music vid ready as part of the marketing stategy. So lots to do from april onwards too.

Well speaking to seed of hope charity in Kenya I hope to see them in september when I plan to go their and hope to work with the girls whilst there and from that I will be sponsoring at least 10percent of profits to them.

I am happy to now be on the Centre for Sustainable Fashions business programme with the first session commencing end of march. This should help me push things on too.

Akabi - mission statement

2010-02-23T03:39:00.000-08:00

Promoting Africa

Empowering Women

Loving Earth

http://www.therunwayshowroom.com/

2010-02-23T02:33:00.000-08:00

Well i have set up my etsy.com shop, my shop on Not Just A Label should be up by the time of the launch, my website online store soon to be launched and laden showroom are all outlets for Akabi to initially sell with and now the Runway Showroom has emerged as a new outlet and one I am pursuing.

Have to make one sale at least before end of March...so better get cracking...is it March next week...time is flying!

Black website...eco friendly

2010-02-23T02:26:00.000-08:00

My lovely boyf (i know you are reading Z) made an interesting comment that I should back up my points and no to publish thoughts without evidence and you know what he is right...I mean I am presently undertaking my masters with plans to do my PhD afterwards so I shouldn't be sloppy. Plus to back it up my mentor David did say that I should know and not 'think' i should never say I 'can't' or I 'think' he is pushing me to have assurance and confidence in what I say.

So here is some evidence re using a darker coloured website and energy use and saving

eco benefits

Did you know that darker colors take up less power then brighter colors? Well it's true. The colors you use on your website can actually save energy. Your website can be "green" or eco friendly and look professional too
http://www.greenisites.com/eco-benefits.php

AND

A few months ago, TreeHugger Mark Ontkush wrote a post on his blog EcoIron titled Black Google Would Save 750 Megawatt-hours a Year . The post lays out the following train of thought. “An all white web page uses about 74 watts to display, while an all black page uses only 59 watts.” Google, which has a white background and gets about “200 million queries a day” could reduce global energy use by 750 Megawatt-hours a year by simply changing the color of its homepage to black. (For more detailed calculations and assumptions check out the original post here.)
http://www.treehugger.com/files/2007/05/black_google_sa.php

AND

Blackle-The Energy Saving Search Engine was created by Heap Media to remind us all to take small steps in our everyday lives to save energy. Blackle searches are powered by Google Custom Search. Blackle saves energy because the screen is predominantly black. Image displayed is primarily a function of the user’s colour settings and desktop graphics, as well as the colour and size of the open application windows; a given monitor requires more power to display a white screen (or light for that matter) than it does to display a black one.
http://socialmedia.globalthoughtz.com/index.php/blackle-the-energy-saving-search-engine/

AND

Black Google Would Save 750 Megawatt-hours a Year

http://ecoiron.blogspot.com/2007/01/black-google-would-save-3000-megawatts.html

So see this search engine BLACKLE the google of energy saving search engines

http://www.blackle.com/

The other good thing aside for being more energy efficient is that it is softer on the eyes...but I admit it is strange to see Google in Black(le) but i guess its just about getting used to it.

Either way good on you who already use black for your blogs...and so journey of an eco fashion brand blog follows this for a more energy efficient blog.

Site update...

2010-02-21T11:15:00.000-08:00

Thought it needed a little freshening up and wanted to introduce you to the registerd Logo. Check out the facebook page for the logo on tees that are soon to purchase from the up and coming website and stockists.

Also I heard on the eco scene that a darker website is more 'environmentally friendly' as it emits less light energy....i dunno how true but i think it gives the site more of an edge..what you think...like it hate it??

Green Room launched on Asos

2010-02-19T03:38:00.001-08:00

FINALLY!

I have been looking forward to this and hope to get a slot with them later in the year but glad to see the biggest e-retailer (in my mind anyway) selling eco products to a vast customer base.

Check it out.

http://www.asos.com/Women/Green-Room/Cat/pgecategory.aspx?cid=10062#state=Rf-400%3D12563&parentID=Rf-400&pge=0&pgeSize=20&sort=-1

Africa on release

2010-02-14T12:51:00.000-08:00

Well Asos are slowing bringing in the Africa range and mmmmhh im not sure...i dont hate it the pieces are actually pretty cool and i just know they will fly but need to check prices to see if it is actually feasible AND for some reason it reminds me of a few other brands especially Suno

For example Suno range.....

(photos from suno website)

versus Asos Africa range....see below...

(photos from asos.com)

Interesting hey...there is usage of the east african Khanga fabric and also typical wax prints typical of store Vlisco so they capture east and west african looks... i do like it ......... but still undecided on my opinions. What do you think? Will Asos take over the world? :)

Latest edition of Arise

2010-02-14T12:30:00.000-08:00

Arise mag out now....or is it? why can i not find it....come on faithful newsagent man get it in for my bi-monthly fix

2010-02-14T12:11:00.000-08:00

Arise African Fashion Collective in New York
wish i was there....

http://www.bellanaija.com/2010/02/14/arise-african-fashion-collective-part-iii-pre-show/

Bollywood here i come

2010-02-12T10:55:00.000-08:00

Awaiting confirmation but its as good as booked but next month will see me in India ... my first trip there and should be an interesting one.

I will be visiting an eco factory (i know the eco term...though in my blog title i need to ditch it soon....) and they do alot of things very ethically and i will be there to investigate to research and to learn.

I will confirm as things move into place but next week details should be in place.

So i must remember...cows are not food out there but friends....friends not food friends not food friends not food...hey...who do i have to kid im as good as veggie as i hardly eat meat...just about chicken! Either way its good to remember :)

Facebook

2010-02-12T10:49:00.000-08:00

A pet peeve of mine.....its a long story but I am slowly building up facebook for Akabi.
Exclusive pic of one of the tees taken from the photoshoot in Ghana.

More to follow

http://www.facebook.com/AkabiDesign

Alexander Mcqueen

2010-02-11T07:25:00.001-08:00

http://www.drapersonline.com/news/womenswear/news/alexander-mcqueen-found-dead/5010369.article

Cant believe Mcqueen is Dead...what a talented Designer.
RIP!

GreenShows New York

2010-02-09T08:57:00.000-08:00

Fashion time is upon us again as all the shows kick off.

New York from 14th to 17th Feb hosts the Greenshows and i just love this designer. If you havent heard of Gary Harvey then you need to recognise!

Its not that he is the best designer but that he has taken an edge of sustainable design to the couture level so its not just a recycled / upcycled look but its well thought out high end fashion. He has done such cool things with newspaper, 2ndhand denim jeans.....so much stuff but i just like how he brings it together....okay let me stop...check out the pic man!

Gary Harvey's created this Baseball Puffball Dress from 26 nylon baseball jackets. They have been attached to a striped rib corset, worn over a baseball jacket with socks made from the rib cuffs originally shown at LFW Estethica in February

Website

2010-02-09T08:27:00.000-08:00

I am getting slowly excited by the day. I met with the graphic designer who is working on my website.....money is such an issue so the overly flash web idea i had is now increasingly reduced to a more simpler site but to be honest the sites we researched with the looks i could go for are actually cool and I am happy.

Just deciding on which photos to use and which to 'save' for marketing materials is soooooo hard...i mean i know i can be indecisive but this was like my babies...all the photos are good that made it very hard to decide so I have decided to use 15 for the home page as a taster to the collection then on the collections pages there will be a set of pictures relating to each range. Then there is the online store too which needs more pictures im trying to decide use a model or no model...mmmmmhhhh its tough as using a model shows it off better but no cash to pay a model BUT hanging up on a white background is cheap and clear and creates less opinions BUT some pieces really need to be on a person..mmmmhhhh i will get there well i have too by the end of this month or its not going on the website and no online store means no sales which means NO business...okay get my stuff together now.

Well sitting with David mentor next week to go over merchandising and costings. I have already decided to cancel a few styles as i am not 100% happy with them or the costs so far are not feasible enough and also financials on my side. But we will get it properly planned out and go from there.

I just wanna sell now.

But look out for May as I am due to present at my first show.

Seed of Hope for Vision Africa Give a Child a Future

2010-02-09T08:18:00.000-08:00

I am seriously considering Seed of Hope - the vocational training arm of Vision Africa Give a Child a Future - as the charity I will support through Akabi.

The girls on this programme have had no hope of any higher education establishment and often only saw a bleak, poverty-stricken future. They come from a deprived past often struggling each day just to survive.

photo from seed of hope website - vision africa

Quote from the website

We rescue girls from a variety of different circumstances, some from child-labour, some from child-marriage, some are simply orphans who have experienced horrific tragedies and have no-one to provide for them...We ... provide them with two years of training in Life-skills, Vocational Skills (Dressmaking and crafts) and Business skills. Throughout this period of training we provide them with everything they require to learn, including qualified teachers and counsellors...Following the two years of training, we facilitate the girls as they establish their own small business, allowing them to live independently.

http://www.seedofhope.info/concept.html

SO right now its between Mend - Invisible Children and Seed of Hope - Vision Africa. I feel once I get out to East Africa later in the year I will hopefully get to meet with these organisations and get things set up officially with them. To start with I will support with percentage of sales from the business going to the charities.

Getting there!

Afro Modern at the Tate

2010-02-09T08:02:00.000-08:00

Unfortunately for some of us Londoners its at the Tate Liverpool but it looks very very interesting. ( i know i know liverpool is not out of this world but realistically .... i wont be able to nip over after work as i could in London)

Well its on Tate Liverpool 29 January – 25 April 2010

Here is more info on the exhibition

Afro Modern: Journeys through the Black Atlantic explores the impact of different black cultures from around the Atlantic on art from the early twentieth-century to today. The exhibition takes its inspiration from Paul Gilroy's influential book The Black Atlantic: Modernity and Double Consciousness 1993...
Gilroy used the term 'The Black Atlantic' to describe the transmission of black cultures around the Atlantic, and the instances of cultural hybridity, that occurred as a result of transatlantic slavery and its legacy. ...offering a network connecting Africa, North and South America, the Caribbean and Europe.

Part of the exhibition includes showing movies....one of my favourites The Harder They Come...classic Jimmy Cliff movie from 1970's and a movie called Looking for Langston which I havent seen but I loved me a bit of the Harlem Renaissance artists and poets and think that that one could be interesting.

Check the website for more details.
http://www.tate.org.uk/liverpool/exhibitions/afromodernism/default.shtm

invisible children

2010-02-04T04:00:00.000-08:00

I was told about this organisation and the work they do a while back and whilst coming out of the UCL gym tuesday night I embarked upon the team who were promoting the organisation Invisible children and showing the video at the university. As a designer creative I am interested in their Mend section as it deals with producing product.

This is what they say

"MEND is designed to seam a personal connection between products and their makers, while repairing the lives of women in distressed regions of the world...not charity. MEND is a...subdivision of Invisible Children, ... constructed with the belief that what’s on the outside and what’s on the inside should both matter ...Each piece carries the name of the seamstress who made it. Each individual name unlocks online profiles of each seamstress employed in our program.
The women employed in our program are formerly abducted child soldiers, often used in captivity as sex slaves. Those lucky enough to escape, often with children of their own, are ostracized due to their affiliation with the rebels...lack education, and are taught sewing as a part of their brief rehabilitation. With demand for seamstresses already sparse due to the war, many are left without the means to support themselves and their children. MEND is a socially and environmentally responsible company...in hopes of stimulating growth, local employment, and economic stability. Similar to its parent company- Invisible Children, MEND is beginning with northern Uganda, with the possibility of heedful worldwide expansion."
http://www.invisiblechildren.com/mend/about
Such a worthwhile cause that truly touches my heart....using fashion as a means to help young Africans who fall prey to such horrible consequences. This is an organisation I would love to be involved with in some way or form and I will look them up whilst in Uganda hopefully this September

Rankin Exhibition - From Congo With Love

2010-02-04T03:41:00.000-08:00

Until 11th April outside National Theatre
Looks interesting!

Coming from a fashion point of view this picture is extreme.....those machines are SOOOO heavy
but i want one so badly....eBay seem to have quiet a few or good ol' spitalfields market. I will buy one...but just not yet :)

Anyway gonna check out the exhibition..should be a good one

Asos doing Africa...its coming!

2010-02-04T03:35:00.000-08:00

There was an article in yesterdays Evening Standard and also on Look magazines website.

Photo looks great and I think Soko are doing for them.

Look say this...

Asos Africa - a clothing and accessories collection that has been designed, sourced and produced by community groups in Africa. The collection, which is sold exclusively at online fashion store Asos, includes contemporary jumpsuits, playsuits, blazers and cropped trousers that have all been re-worked using traditional African techniques. Plus, the collection is as ethical as it is stylish – all workers are given training and fair pay. All that and tribal prints are one of this season’s hottest trends, so get shopping – as if you needed any excuse! - HE

http://www.look.co.uk/fashion/asos-launches-asos-africa

Centre for Sustainable Fashion - im in!

2010-02-03T12:16:00.000-08:00

Today I attended a meeting with the Centre for Sustainable Fashion (CSF) part of the London College of Fashion to see if i could join their year long programme to kick start Akabi in the next phase of the business.

http://www.sustainable-fashion.com

The CSF, which is part funded by the European Union and works with Newham College of Further Education offers guidance and inspiration through a series of small group workshops and one-to-one advice and provides support and runs a programme for small to medium sized business as a first step towards embedding our philosophy in the fashion industry of the future.

The programme explores how innovation in fabric development, production management, new technologies, communications, and most importantly design, can create exciting market opportunities and help a business grow in a dynamic and sustainable manner
http://www.sustainable-fashion.com/?page_id=177

I wanted to focus the programme on Akabi and showed them my photos of the photoshoot to which they were very impressed but put my details down for my bridal business as it is a Limited company and this is a Sole Trader business. But a friend advised me that once on it it doesnt matter and I can make Akabi the focus and get advice on both if required...so i will.

The two workshops commence once in March and once in April so that will be good to get me moving.

Chris Ofili

2010-02-03T12:08:00.000-08:00

Tate Britain is presenting notable artist and 1998 Turner Prize winner, Chris Ofili exhibition until the 16th of May 2010. Known for using media such as elephant dung (i know i know how random!), this very interesting artist presents over 45 pieces - paintings, pencil drawings and watercolours dating from around the mid 1990s until today inspired from various things.

Afrodizzia (2nd Version) 1996

One to visit!

flights to Kenya...what to do

2010-01-29T02:14:00.000-08:00

As part of my studies for my research degree I am planning to take a trip to Kenya then internal flights to Uganda and Tanzania

Now I have until 8th Feb to make up my mind and book the flight to Kenya as it is just £398 to travel in Sept! Though i still have to organise accomodation. But I may have a few options I can organise closer to the time. So book now for a great deal OR wait til later in the year when I am sure lastminute.com and travelzoo (a great discount travel site) will have all inclusive discount deals....though thinking..the last time i saw them do it it was very close to christmas and I want to go around Sept...mmh decisions, decisions....especially when I also need the money to buy samples.....oh money money money.

Anyway...all shall work out....another decision is to focus my next summer range on craft production in Ghana though I will still be producing my organic cotton styles in Kenya; I will combine it with my final year project as I want to produce some garments made in Africa using African age old traditions as well as working on my thesis and research work this would add the fun element AND kill two birds with one stone!

Chanel Iman...spanish Vogue

2010-01-27T12:27:00.001-08:00

Just look at this! Ankara is still on the move and Vogue mag is lapping it up.

Spotted this on ciaafrique's blog. Girl you got the african fashions locked down! check out other pieces by same designer

New Media - tee shirt as magazine...nifty idea

2010-01-25T07:50:00.000-08:00

t-post your mailorder tee shirt began in 2004...an interesting concept which i had to post and a nifty idea they had the idea of trying to re-wire the structures of news communication.

as noted on streetwear-websites.com with picture
Subscribing to T-post is a lot like having a subscription to a magazine but instead of receiving magazines in your mailbox - you receive T-shirts. As a subscriber you receive a new t-shirt every six weeks based on a current news item. The topic is interpreted by select designers and the written story printed on the inside.

I would like to see the story on the inside - its noted on the website but the pics dont show it on the inside which is a little shame but i still like the concept for innovation and a new way of thinking and taking the staple tee which is a big story teller to a new level. Like it!

prints

2010-01-22T03:58:00.000-08:00

I actually am a lover of prints and colour hence my love of Africa and african fabrics.
Yet akabi range 1 doesnt have enough prints in my opinions but i think to have added them now would be too much and too costly but have some surprises for you as i consider and research for range 2
yep my mind is on that already
:)

carbon neutral labelling

2010-01-21T04:30:00.000-08:00

piqqo

Sell your products as carbon neutral!

Market your products as carbon neutral through the simple addition of a Piqqo Label and join the growing number of manufacturers who are helping to tackle climate change.

An initiative I will look into signing up to

Back to Business...

2010-01-21T04:28:00.000-08:00

Well lots to document again...

I met with David on Tuesday and he looked over the pics and we spoke about the pricing and to get the structure and merchandising in place. SO I need to sit with him go through styles and costings and weigh things up that way.

I have to get my love from africa tee printed up and photgraphed as the chari-tee product for the range donating profits back to Africa

On that note deciding on the charity I want to work with is causing a little stress as I have to research them inside and out...I actually want to set up the FSI (female style intelligence) foundation to empower women in Ghana and to equip them with the skills and opportunities they need to progress in education and business. This would be my dream to work with young women within fashion design and production and to teach alongside this self empowerment and entreprenerall skills too.

It will happen..step by step though

The Weave Boutique

2010-01-21T04:20:00.000-08:00

Not an ethical thing...i know but I had to promote the business of this young black lady who is selling black hair product online.

http://www.theweaveboutique.com/index.php

CANOE mag

2010-01-20T04:09:00.000-08:00

Have I simply just been out of it and only just noticed CANOE magazine.

I actually saw this whilst in Ghana all in its plastic protective cover...and as I can be naughty and not want to buy without a look first I attempted to peel open the plastic to reveal and open the magazine

to the horror of my boyfriend who demanded I close it back as 'things are not done that way over here' mmmmmhhh

I was not happy .... but humbled myself ... especially as the security men are on another level and the police...well lets not even get started about them

ANYWAY back to the mag it is created by 5 entrepreneurs who are inspired to celebrate Africa’s evolving culture and lifestyle and aim to orrect the image of Africa, predict growing trends and portray positively, the continent and its people whilst promoting the Afro-bourgeois population in the new Africa that seems to be evolving and is noted as the Afro-Renaissance.

Canoe magazine comes out quarterly and has a different outlook to my recent fave ARISE magazine (to which I am waiting eagerly for the new edition) but an interesting contrast.

Love the african style headphones on the front cover of the latest issue...and inside i love how Nneka is repping my fave african promoted fashion label of 2009 - Africa is the Future

Paparazzi go Eco

2010-01-19T10:44:00.000-08:00

Had to fill you all in on the latest ECO website...'green gossip' i love it
http://www.ecorazzi.com/

Also felt the need to 'borrow' a couple of articles from their page...all belonging to http://www.ecorazzi.com/ and i credit nothing as my own (forgive me ecorazzi but the world needs to know about you as your site is grazia for the eco-population) LOVING IT!

Firstly work by eco-friendly artist Jane Perkins who had 'a huge collection of stuff that I have amassed really since childhood. ' and turned recycling, that she learnt from a few projects on her degree course, into an art and uses all unwanted objects, she reuses those which would normally be destined for the landfill and instead creates really cool portraits of celebs made entirely of unwanted objects.

More importantly is to note Earth hour scheduled 8.30pm on March 27th (not sure if that is GMT time - sorry folks) But its all about climate change and organised by WWF World Wildlife Federation who I am becoming a big fan of these days

Anyway its important for us all as habitants of mother earth so check it out pull the string and turn of your lights ;)

https://www.myearthhour.org

Ethical Fashion online shop

2010-01-18T04:57:00.000-08:00

Im on a roll today!
Spotted another ethical online fashion shop called Green is Black - fashion for the conscious.....heard that elsewhere but STILL a nice tag line.

In my opinion online store could do with some work but its promoting ethics and positivity so i am all for it.

Africhic

2010-01-18T04:53:00.000-08:00

Website company SA based but promoting and selling African designers. Check them out here....africhic

SELLING designers such as Lalesso, Superella, MICHELLE LUDEK and many more a variety of designs to whet your appetites. Check out pics below

Fashion Show May 2010

2010-01-18T04:47:00.000-08:00

First show booked for Akabi
1st week in May
Details to follow in due season

momentum has begun!

Laden Showroom

2010-01-18T04:46:00.000-08:00

Brand agency The Laden Showroom is to expand its retail operation with the launch of a transactional website and the opening of a raft of department store concessions and retail stores in a bid to grow sales fivefold over the next five years.

Walters added: “The Laden Showroom is now looking to act as an umbrella with lots of labels beneath it, in a way that is not dissimilar to what Selfridges achieved with its Spirit [young fashion] section.”
The business is also keen to take on new labels and representatives of the company will attend exhibitions including Magic in Las Vegas on February 16-18, London Fashion Week on February 19-24 and Bread & Butter in Berlin, which runs from January 20-22, to source new labels.

http://www.drapersonline.com/news/independents-news/the-laden-showroom-kicks-off-retail-push/5009579.article

http://www.laden.co.uk/ relaunching in feb from www.ladenshowroom.co.uk

As somewhere i plan to stock in, to test the market and to promote the range in .... I better get on with contacting them then!

OBSERVER ETHICAL AWARDS LAUNCH

2010-01-14T07:38:00.000-08:00

deadline is march...to enter...or not yet....not sure time is ripe or the season is here for such BIG comps as this, but i will follow and take note.

Once I get Akabi fully out...im going for all the comps and awards...no joke
:)

EcoChic Geneva

2010-01-14T07:36:00.000-08:00

Coming up on January 20-21, 2010 at the Palais des Nations, (the UN headquarters) Geneva.

The event will commence with a 1.5 day seminar which will look at "Redefining Sustainability in the International Agenda" from the perspective of the fashion and cosmetics industries... the launch of a Sustainable Fashion Exhibition and .... EcoChic Fashion Show featuring sustainable and ethical ready-to-wear and couture looks by fashion designers from around the globe.

wish i could make it...but have to be at work - yep i work and study and business too...oh well next time...but i must get on the ball with seminars etc this year...mental note!

1.000.000 tee...the battle is on

2010-01-13T01:12:00.000-08:00

I love this concept and wish them all the best with it

Anything which aims to build sustainable employment within Africa is close to my heart ....check them out on
http://onemilliontee.com/blog/about

'The idea:

selling 1,000,000 t-shirts each with a number from 1 to 1,000,000. Thus, each t-shirt will be unique. To create a global movement.

The Cause:

Help create sustainable job opportunities in Africa.

Why?

For the past living years of my life I’ve seen billions and billions of dollars donated to Africa but I do not see much changes, the real solution is creating sustainable job opportunities for them to sustain themselves, not by just giving them piles of food, money, and medicines. When they have a job to earn a living, they have money for food, medicines, and to send their children to school. With education, their children’s lives will change forever and their generations to come. And World Cup South Africa 2010 is next year; the world will see how capable and talented bunch of people they are.'

I got a message from one of the directors of this company in regarding to sourcing tees from Africa and I looked over their concept and very excited about their policy and what they are doing...sounds great. They definitely have my support

http://onemilliontee.com/blog/

photoshoot

2010-01-04T06:48:00.000-08:00

Happy new year!!

Shoot - done!

Took longer than planned to get things moving but am so glad with the results.

After going round in circles deciding on models we chose the girl who is half sudanese and half ghanaian and i am glad as she did a great job.

BUT there were trials....and I have learnt over here in Ghana that AT TIMES the original price that is given is not the real price. From the models we met to the photographer to the make up artist to a point that we reduced the people we met to just the model and my digital camera. Budget would not allow us to afford the prices asked for as in some cases it was more than I would pay in London (maybe the british accent caused prices to become inflated...mmmmmmhhh) But I am pleased with how the clothes looked and now need to hand them over to my pro photographer friend to clean them up then over to my web producing friend to est up my site.

So keep an eye out for the launch of http://www.akabidesign.com/
2010 will see many big things for Akabi and I look forward to comments and reviews

Connected

2009-12-28T08:40:00.000-08:00

I have been in Accra for over a week now and (sorry to make you all jealous....but.....) it is hot, gorgeous and I am having an awesome time. This Ghana experience over-rides my last - exceedingly. I am finally on a good internet connection after 2 other tries and have so much to write but may have to document it all on my return as just too much to say and i need to add the pics to make full sense of my words.

But re the akabi shoot...well the photographer is not the problem at all..we have a few options but the models...we have a girl who has worked with Exopa in Ghana previously and has an African look but commercial....i could see her in Arise magazine or something, though not dark enough for my liking but she is professional and on time...which (as a brit) is important, then we have another girl who has the most beautiful maroon skin smooth as chocolate, dark thick eyebrows and an innnocent look and who I feel looks great in the pictures but is not as experienced or professional. Its hard to choose.

We have decided against Cape Coast and have located an equally good location as advised by the photographer who did a shoot their previously. It has history, rough buildings, slightly eerie in a way but the look I am seeking - so new years day will find us down there.

The one thing I that disappoints me trying to do business in Ghana as a Brit is that even though my skin is just like theirs - as a fellow black person - all they see is English and think being English comes with money so you can imagine the haggle...

I am not innocent to this - I have travelled alot and get that in many places and it is normal in market areas for some level of bartering or haggling to take place but for business we all need to work together to help each other but....hey life....and reality....resonates through my head.

SO i will stop

Overall Accra is a bustling city that has some secret beauties that I will soon post ..... so wait and see.

Black Star here I come!

2009-12-17T03:30:00.000-08:00

Today is the day and you would think being such an organiser as I am that today i would be relaxed, fresh ready to fly...yet I am not.

The annoyances of 'life' have stepped in to frustrate me. I had everything in place..picked up my woven pieces from Heba and I am happy - yes some minor issues but they are first samples and there are ways to hide the bad points in the photoshoot so I am not worried about that...and when it comes to making clothing I am a perfectionist but try to be a realist too. But the frustrating thing is the Plan B seamstress (who annoyingly has my first name...maybe the name made me work with her!) I cancelled going to another factory in south london as i thought it would be difficult for me to be going back and forth with work hours etc so I went with this seamstress as she is also based in east london. When i called she acted confident but wanted to meet so we met last monday and i brought 3 of the 6 pieces i needed sown. She admittedly was a bit weird in the sense that i didnt quite get her but she again 'acted' confident and said she will get her friend who shares her studio to sew with her. That that week she had a deadline for the thurs/fri but sunday they will get all those 3 done between them and if i cut out the last 3 styles they could do them for me to collect on wednesday. I wanted it for tuesday but agreed on the wednesday.

SO why oh why has it take two people 4 days to only do 3 of the 6 pieces???? This is crazy and I am not a happy bunny.

One thing my jamaican mum told me that resonates even more now is 'if ya spirit nah tek dem dont go wid dem' and i must go with my mind and my first instinct. In retrospect (oh the joys of hindsight - dont you just hate hindsight and the lessons she teaches....)

I had cancelled using the other factory but now regret it...they had a better set up too and more professional. But hey i still have today though it means running out of work at lunch to get to bethnal green to get back to work, get to the bank, fix my sunglasses and get home to pick up my two suitcases and large carry on bag - GIA please dont be silly with weights now - but thank God i did book with Ghana International rather than BA! How depressing would that be with all the strikes.

Overall God is good - as I said I am an organiser and I always have another plan - Plan C are the workshop in Ghana who are also sewing for me for my bridal business - Ruth can sew up any pieces not finished.

Okay so I have had my rant...now in with anger out with love - breeeeeaaaaatttthhhheeee - all shall be well....sunshine I am looking forward to being covered by you!

Ghana here I come!

Pencil jewellery...how cool

2009-12-16T02:50:00.000-08:00

Jewelry designer Maria Cristina Bellucci has created an awesome and contemporary collection of accessories sliced, diced and upcycled from colour pencil stubs

http://www.ecouterre.com/6928/upcycled-jewelry-made-from-color-pencil-stubs-for-your-inner-child/

http://www.designboom.com/weblog/cat/8/view/8246/maria-cristina-bellucci-pencil-crayon-jewelry.html

SO much creativity out there and proves recycling can be contemporary.

1 day until i fly!

2009-12-16T02:43:00.000-08:00

Last night i sat with David my business mentor and the rest of his mentees. With gave a catch up over the last year of mentorship with him and from hearing other peoples stories good and bad and seeing where they are at it made me quite relaxed that I havent done as slowly or badly as i thought. David himself said that he prefers us to go slow then to go fast.

I know that i have missed dates to get the summer range in stores and they are cutting back on their budgets for that season and preparing for winter 2010 AND sticking to who they know so it seems i will have to sell via other means direct to customer and online which also means my costs wont have to be so high as i thought they would be as i am cutting out the middle man.

I also brought one of the parachute jackets, 4 of the eco print bamboo tees and an african cotton vest dress style to the meeting and the response i got was quite positive. At the moment its been family giving their opinions and the odd close friend who has passed by my studio/bedroom :) and commented on how they liked particular styles. Quite promising really and helps to boost my confidence too.

So i have two suitcases packed - one with my stuff and the other with akabi clothing (and the little teddies too!!) I can only carry 23kg in each suitcases so i am trying to be careful not to overload and am deciding on putting some stuff back.

I must admit i am getting evern more excited but also very nervous too. This is an important trip for both businesses and for personal so lots of emotions going on at once but things are looking good on all counts and i truly thank God for opening doors.

What is positive also is that though the mentorship programme finishes in jan 2010 that David will continue it for at least another 6 months as there is more funding coming from europe! That will really help. Oh and he also said i must have at least one sale before end of march 2010. Better get moving!

Babies are coming!

2009-12-14T05:22:00.000-08:00

Things are going good good good .... aside from the realism that I do not make a good dyer!! but practice makes perfect.

Samples from Kenya are confirmed will be with me today and tomorrow and looking at the invoice though a significant price is actually not as bad as i though it would be including delivery etc so very pleased as it means though my woven styles would be pricey due to materials and workmanship...that my knit/jersey styles will be reasonable price to wholesale and retail.

My leotard all in one style has been named as my 'lady gaga' outfit.... not as outrageous as she would dress but interesting enough and I would like to send some of them to particular music artists to wear as I think that style in particular has the X-factor (how rubbish was the result last night...i am persuaded that its old ladies that vote these days as Joe did not deserve to win....i seriously give up on that show) but 'Small Island' on BBC1 (adaptation of Andrea Levy book) was fantastic (and a good version of the book - not too much dramatic license in there) and highlighted to me another aspect of my parents and grandparents when they came over to London from the Caribbean. Great costumes too - well done beeb!

ANYWAY back to important things :) seamstress in London should be finished by Wednesday (the day BEFORE i leave!) and so will the factory in London too. SO I think Wednesday will be a run around day. Good thing i started packing my clothes last night - so just to sort out shoes, toiletries, accessories - stuff for photoshoot......

Things are going well in Ghana - photographer, model, venue in place - its all very very exciting and I am a little overwhelmed.

So getting one more new suitcase as my old ones have been around the world to a point that they are screaming to be laid to rest (good ol' faithful...you shall be highly missed...but 4-wheelers are the way to go especially when you have to carry two suitcases AND a carry on bag...my poor back). Once i get that then will pack all my samples ready to fly oh and all the little gifts....you cant travel to stay with people and not bring a 'lickle' (jamaican style) something for the 'aunties' (african style) et al.

Therefore nearly there but not too much more to do!

Embroidery

2009-12-09T14:28:00.000-08:00

I just got back from the embroiderers today and saw the FSI tagline for the back of the baseball jacket.
Bright orange on khaki green recycled ripstop....it looks amazing!

I am very excited.

I will go to see the seamstress (option B as the factory wont be able to finish all samples) i see her this weekend and will take out all pieces that I will cut out and prepare for her so she just has to sew.

I cant wait to see them all too.

Oh and Kenya factory have finished my samples too and they will be on their way to me via switzerland (dont ask!!) so i pray i pray i pray ... they come to me by monday evening...

how much is fed ex switz to uk?????

eco print bamboo tees!

2009-12-08T03:05:00.000-08:00

Just got an email from eco tshirt printers who are printing on my tees (organic cotton and bamboo) they will be done and with me this thursday or friday!

yay!!

Organic cotton from Kenya

2009-12-08T03:03:00.000-08:00

I received some organic cotton from kenya last night from the factory and they are lovely....blue, purple and charcoal. I will make up the 5 way jacket in these 3 colour options.

I attempted to hand dye some organic trimmings and though they came out kinda alright (a few tie dye looking parts !!) but the colour match to the fabric is a little trial and error...what to do what to do :)

but they match the drawcords anyway.

But yet another annoyance (private scream!!) one of two seamstresses I have found has subsequently hurt her back the day I am to come over and bring her the pieces and cannot sew for me....aaaagggghhhhhhh (public scream). Good thing i had another one though she is obviously not a phone person so i do have to chase her a little bit. I just hope that she can do them all - 3 all in ones, 2 pants, 2 jackets in less than a week
I will pray pray pray....it shall get done
(oh wow she just now text me back....good good)

Either way I am happy to get my fabric, the factory in london are actually nearly done so i will visit them a few times over the next 7 days. Its just very intense and very difficult to get around to do these things when you work but i cant afford not to work. Got my credit card bill this week and screamed out loud (yep i am tending to scream quite a bit recently - stress, panic, stress, panic) but once the funding comes through i will be able to recoup the debt on that which will bring me back to zero.

slowly slowly but i am getting there

lots more psotings to come over the next week...enjoy the ride...its gonna be bumpy

Asos goes African

2009-12-07T09:16:00.000-08:00

Had to make note of this....according to sources at drapers record magazine, okay .... the magazine itself :)
Asos will firstly be opening up an Ethical part to the site 'The Green Room' supporting and showcase ethical brands AND more interestingly will be starting an Asos Africa Range

Asos is seeking new brands for the site and said its criteria was brands or labels that “promote people and the planet”.

To support The Green Room, Asos is to launch an ethical own-brand range called Asos Africa selling clothes sourced from community projects across Africa. The etailer will also team up with fashion bloggers who will create organic T-shirt designs.

Drapers Record

I will certainly be on their case to showcase Akabi...watch this space.

project africa rolls on...i can see the finish line

2009-12-07T09:11:00.000-08:00

This weekend was the most tiring of all the last 6 months setting up business....i am already exhausted but had a mission including going across to the 3 areas of london in one day for various 'projects'. One included meeting with an embroiderer to do my tagline on the back of my cropped baseball jacket...and he will also do the logos....

i will get the first embroideries early this week but need to complete all designs to take back to him to embroider the logos before i travel to Ghana next week.

One week to go!

I admit last weekend i did kinda panic a little after i came back from the factory as they are going slower than hoped and i was unsure they would complete in time. But thank God i have two seamstresses in place to take over to make sure i can get all done i time.

The only thing that is strange is my impression of everything as i get closer to completion...im not sure i am happy with the designs, some of the samples, the logo, the print ideas.....but as a designer by trade i know that is what tends to happen when you look at something over and over again. But i will focus focus focus

On a positive my boyfr (who is being a sweet sweet guy and a great support) has tracked down another 2 photographers in Ghana for the photoshoot...as the photography tutor we were to work with had a bad motorcycle accident some months back. So we have that in place, model and make up artist to be confirmed but options there. I am hoping to do a video shoot alongside the real shoot to go on you tube...i am getting excited btu will feel better once all 'my babies' are in my arms :)