In creating this collection, I considered the specific characteristics of textile waste from the Rivatex factory and sought ways to transform apparent imperfections into strengths. The frayed surfaces resulting from weaving are placed at the heart of the garments, expressing movement, fragility, and playfulness. Meanwhile, the smooth transitions and abstract patterns of fabric ends left over from the dyeing process tell a story of unique beauty.

Inspired by Kenya’s climate, the result is a modular, panel-based collection. Since African early mornings and late evenings can be relatively cool, while the days are uncomfortably hot, the garments offer adaptability to changing temperatures. Loops added to the jacket allow for attaching sleeves of different lengths, while skirt panels provide the flexibility to combine them either with each other or with shorts. This creates the possibility to mix and match panels in personal ways, resulting in versatile ensembles.

In designing the garments, my aim was to generate as little cutting waste as possible and to avoid the use of fastenings. The latter ensures that, at the end of its life cycle, the material can be directed straight into recycling.