Slowing (fashion) Down

Returning to Kenya four years ago and being immersed in nature again reignited my passion for photography. As I began capturing images of the stunning Kenyan coastline and the vibrant communities along these shores, I felt a deeper urge to explore the rich cultural heritage of this diverse region.

This journey led me to engage with local communities and learn about the intricate and endangered ancestral craftsmanship practised by coastal artisans. These interactions inspired me to create a platform that combines their creativity, supports their crafts, preserves their culture, and highlights their heritage.

Jiri is a brand that celebrates the Kenyan coast's boundless talent, creativity, and rich heritage by telling its story of resilience, tradition, and innovation. From exquisite handwoven textiles to intricately beaded wearable art, we celebrate the diverse culture of East African artistry.

Our commitment extends beyond aesthetics; we embrace sustainability as a core principle by seeking ethically sourced materials, supporting fair-trade practices, and collaborating closely with local communities to promote their cultural heritage and craftsmanship. Through these partnerships, we empower artisans, providing them with opportunities for growth and recognition.

The Kenyan coast is experiencing a surge in demand for handmade and artisanal fashion products — true 'handmade in Kenya' items. As the global fashion industry grapples with the negative environmental impact of fast fashion, slow and sustainable fashion has come to the forefront. Today's consumers are purpose-driven, seeking products with stories that connect them to the creators and their place of origin.

On the Kenyan coast, the slow fashion movement is deeply intertwined with the area's rich cultural heritage and traditional craftsmanship. As local brands, we respond to the demand for sustainable products by adopting upcycling, using organic materials, minimising waste, emphasising fair trade practices, and ensuring that artisans are paid fairly and recognised for their work.

At Jiri, we focus on storytelling by incorporating local communities into our visual narratives and collaborating with other local brands. One is ASC Earth by African Safari Conservation, a bespoke jewellery brand that creates sterling silver endangered species and wildlife collections that give back to conservation organizations that protect them. Each Jiri handmade product has a unique story, highlighting the artisan who crafted the piece, the traditional techniques used, and the cultural significance behind each design.

We aim to expand the studio by bringing together a diverse group of local artisans, showcasing traditional Kenyan handmade goods to a global audience. We aspire to be more than just a marketplace; we want to create a vibrant hub for creativity, dialogue, and cultural exchange.

Most importantly, we wish to continue weaving stories of culture, heritage, and artisanal craftsmanship into our products. Jiri Studio is a testament to the power of storytelling, community engagement, and sustainable practices, promoting positive change, one bead at a time.

When you're travelling to the Kenyan Coast, go barefoot all the way! Opt for neutral and soft colours — think soft linen dresses, kaftans, oversized palazzo pants, and shirts. A Panama hat is a great accessory; open sandals are perfect for comfort. And, of course, bring along a Jiri signature Indian silk woven lightweight jacket for the evenings and an ASC Earth jewel to complete your timeless beach look.