My grandmother inspired me into fashion – Joe Malaika

Joe Malaika is a Ugandan Boston based fashion designer. He is the founder and head of design for Joe Malaika formerly known as Malaika Clothing. Malaika debuted his collection in the fall of 2009. He talked to Showbiz Uganda about his love for fashion.

Some of the designs you can get from Malaika

SU: Tell us about your Fashion label? Malaika: The line is comprised of everything a woman and man needs from dressy to casual. I was known for apparel, as the brand got more exposure by the day, I started getting invitations to participate in runway shows in Massachusetts and outside my state. That’s when I started thinking more than apparel. I spend lots of time on theme and inspiration.

Joe Malaika said he was inspired by his grandmother

SU: Who inspired you into Fashion?

Malaika: I was inspired by my grandmother who was a tailor as well as my love for fashion. Fashion for me is one of the art form that you live in your life, it’s just an extension to my personality I’ve just had so much passion and respect for it from a very young age. [adrotate banner=”3″]

SU: What do you have in stores for Fashion lovers this year?

Malaika: I am ready to assist you with personalised style guidance. Additionally, we will soon open a branch in Kampala for everyone to experience the fabric.

Malaika is one of the best Ugandan designers based in the US

SU: What message do you have for those who want to Join Fashion?

Malaika: Fashion requires a lot more than just a degree, l have learnt to focus on numbers for the business to work. You have to be aggressive, let everyone know what you are doing. You got to be careful who you give access to information on how your product is made. You need to invest a significant amount of time and possibly a chunk of your savings. Before you fill out your portfolio, find some local arts or be observant to trends. I have also learnt to value my work.

Malaika is set to open an outlet in Kampala soon