Exploring Soho with Maisha Concept,
Hey guys! Welcome back, and sorry I've been away for a while due to midterms brings close not only exams but also the summer holidays (woohoo... except it still feels like middle of December round here lately). Meanwhile, the long awaited shoot with Maisha Concept is ready to be revealed! I love that they are as much about fashion as they are about charity and making a difference in the world with authenticity and compassion. Ready to feel some tribal fever? Read on!
Few weeks back the amazing photographer Gabrielle and I went up to Maisha Concept's showroom up in Soho, and sat down with designer Rakhee Shah and brand associate Marianne Caroline to learn a little bit more about the goodies and the story behind them.With a heavy (but subtle) use of African and Indian fabrics and patterns, you can guess where the heritage roots from for Rakhee. But it's not just stripping the patterns on their own and mass producing them, she actually spends the hours to source fabrics from the origin, and the authenticity really shows, creating a beautiful and unique collection of dresses and spins on basic items and tuxedo jackets and casual skirts.They've been in the fashion scene since 2012, and it's been nothing but a roaring success (proved by Rakhee being recognised and featured in April's Vanity Fair as one of the young and distinguished African entrepreneurs!) From tailoring and designing her own clothes, to her friends and family demanding more, Maisha Concept was born.
Not just focused on design and quality, Rakhee along with the brand is always passionate about charity and making a difference. (Just recently their proceeds from a pop-up in Kenya helped support 10 children who had trouble paying their school fees!) That really made my heart sang.
I was very happy to hear that their pieces are designed to fit all sizes, and thankfully I had no actual trouble fitting into any of them. (I didn't get much sleep worrying about that the previous night) I styled them with casual chic in mind, and of course, it's not me unless there's a menswear inspired item involved. (aka tweed blazer yeah!)
Above: Kenyan Tweed Blazer, Midnight Chic Jumpsuit
I loved the jumpsuit, and it really is one for the ladies with curves and aren't afraid to show them! Not to mention of course, the tweed blazer, I fell in love the moment I literally stole it off Marianne right before we started shooting!
Above: Round Neck Coat Blazer, True Blue Shirt, African Shorts
Errr, yeah shirt with shorts because why not! I love these shorts because basically you can choose to lounge around in them or dress it up with a shirt and a long coat. The coat's already decorated collar saves you the statement necklace, and the shirt sleeves rolled up... really, need I say more?!
Below: African Tuxedo in white, Forest Green Shift Dress
I love the collar which can potentially hide a statement necklace's chain, and the pockets, the pockets! Lined with a chic pattern (and perfect for ID, money and maybe an iPhone), you're pretty much set for any night. The back reminds me of a more retro time, with a modern use of the center line of pattern that elongates your already hot bod. (fancy for looking thinner yay!) Feeling chilly? Throw on a blazer, duh!I enjoyed my time on the shoot so much, but not as much as my conversations with Rakhee & Marianne. We talked about fashion, photography, the blogging 'sphere and how to stay true above it all. It was so inspirational. (and also fun to be a model!)
Hit up Maisha Concept (Facebook page here) for more goodies, or have a look with your hands on at their stockists!
Photos by the always amazing Gabrielle Salonga Photography!Till next time,xx
