Recently established fashion house, Suno, based in New York, is the result of more than 10 years of collecting textiles in the owner’s visits to Kenya.
The country’s never ending political confusion has prevented many foreigners from visiting, investing and even supporting local culture, which is precisely Suno's catalyst to actually do something with the amazing textiles.
The company supports local Kenyan designers and showcases their talents in new markets.
Pattern design and developing are made in New York and then brought to Kenya, where the samples are produced in small workshops.
"This first collection from SUNO for Spring/Summer 2009 consists of 1000 individually numbered, one of a kind pieces incorporating vintage Kenyan kangas," their site asys.
Vintage African Fashion
The Fair Trade Fashions of Suno NY Began in Africa
Trend Themes
1. Sustainable Fashion - Suno's use of vintage Kenyan kangas and support of local designers represents a trend towards sustainable and ethical fashion practices.
2. Ethnic-inspired Designs - Suno's incorporation of traditional Kenyan textiles in their designs represents a trend towards a revival of ethnic-inspired styles in the fashion industry.
3. Collaborative Global Business - Suno's partnership with Kenyan designers and use of production in small workshops reflects a trend towards collaborative global business practices and empowering local industries.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion Industry - Suno's success and unique approach to sustainable and ethnic-inspired fashion presents an opportunity for disruption in the traditional fashion industry.
2. Textile Industry - Suno's use of vintage Kenyan kangas and support of local designers presents an opportunity for disruption and a shift towards sustainable and ethically sourced textiles in the industry.
3. Global Trade - Suno's collaborative approach to global business could disrupt traditional methods and inspire more ethical and sustainable practices in global trade.