ECHOES OF AMAZIGH

Honoring the Past, Weaving the future.

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About Us

Maisha by Nisria is a sustainable fashion and design studio based in Gilgil, Kenya. We create one-of-a-kind, handmade clothing and accessories using upcycled materials, giving new life to textiles that would otherwise go to waste.

Our approach to fashion is simple but powerful: we turn secondhand fabrics and discarded clothing into beautiful, contemporary fashion pieces. Every design is made with care, creativity, and a commitment to sustainability.

Recognized by The Guardian, Vogue Business and Al Jazeera English, Maisha is proud to be part of the growing movement for ethical fashion in Africa. Beyond clothing, we create impact by training and employing youth and women in our community, helping them build skills, earn income, and create brighter futures.

At Maisha, we believe in Fashion with Purpose - fashion that cares for people and the planet.

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Shop our Collections

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MANDHALI Kimono
$136.00

The Asili Collection is our love letter to what already exists. Asili — meaning origin in Swahili — is built entirely from upcycled and recycled fabrics; curtains, bedsheets, and offcuts rescued and reimagined by hand into one-of-a-kind pieces. Each garment is made with care, from materials given a second life instead of a last one. Can fit sizes S / M / L / XL.

Measurements: Shoulder-15 | Bust-38 | Length-48 | Armhole-9

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VUMO Dress
$136.00

The Asili Collection is our love letter to what already exists. Asili — meaning origin in Swahili — is built entirely from upcycled and recycled fabrics; curtains, bedsheets, and offcuts rescued and reimagined by hand into one-of-a-kind pieces. Each garment is made with care, from materials given a second life instead of a last one. Can fit sizes S / M / L / XL.

Measurements: Shoulder-48 (extended) | Bust-47 | Length-48.5 | Free-fitted

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TASWIRA 2-piece
$190.00

The Asili Collection is our love letter to what already exists. Asili — meaning origin in Swahili — is built entirely from upcycled and recycled fabrics; curtains, bedsheets, and offcuts rescued and reimagined by hand into one-of-a-kind pieces. Each garment is made with care, from materials given a second life instead of a last one. Can fit sizes S / M / L / XL.

Measurements: Top: Shoulder-15 | Sleeve-20 | Bust-35 | Length-15 | Skirt-free fitted | Length-45

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TAI 2-piece
$163.00

The Asili Collection is our love letter to what already exists. Asili — meaning origin in Swahili — is built entirely from upcycled and recycled fabrics; curtains, bedsheets, and offcuts rescued and reimagined by hand into one-of-a-kind pieces. Each garment is made with care, from materials given a second life instead of a last one. Can fit sizes S / M / L / XL.

Measurements: Jacket: Extended shoulders-62 | Bust-44 | Length-19.5 | Skirt: Free-fitted waist (25-30) | Length high-14.5 low-35

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KIPEPEO Kimono
$122.00

The Asili Collection is our love letter to what already exists. Asili — meaning origin in Swahili — is built entirely from upcycled and recycled fabrics; curtains, bedsheets, and offcuts rescued and reimagined by hand into one-of-a-kind pieces. Each garment is made with care, from materials given a second life instead of a last one. Can fit sizes S / M / L / XL.

Measurements: Free-fitted (open sides) | Full length-41

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JAMILA Dress
$136.00

The Asili Collection is our love letter to what already exists. Asili — meaning origin in Swahili — is built entirely from upcycled and recycled fabrics; curtains, bedsheets, and offcuts rescued and reimagined by hand into one-of-a-kind pieces. Each garment is made with care, from materials given a second life instead of a last one. Can fit sizes S / M / L / XL.

Measurements: Shoulder-free-fitted (16-18") | Bust-40 | Waist-loose fitted (32-40) | Full length-61.5

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PAA Trouser
$109.00

The Asili Collection is our love letter to what already exists. Asili — meaning origin in Swahili — is built entirely from upcycled and recycled fabrics; curtains, bedsheets, and offcuts rescued and reimagined by hand into one-of-a-kind pieces. Each garment is made with care, from materials given a second life instead of a last one. Can fit sizes S / M / L / XL.

Measurements: Waist-33 | Thigh-21 | Full length-43 | Bottom hem-25

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LULU Kimono
$149.00

The Asili Collection is our love letter to what already exists. Asili — meaning origin in Swahili — is built entirely from upcycled and recycled fabrics; curtains, bedsheets, and offcuts rescued and reimagined by hand into one-of-a-kind pieces. Each garment is made with care, from materials given a second life instead of a last one. Can fit sizes S / M / L / XL.

Measurements: Shoulders-16 | Bust-35 | Shoulder-waist-15.5 | Sleeve-23/7 | Waist-28 | Full-length-54

Journal

Maisha at Nairobi Design Week 2024
Maisha at Nairobi Design Week 2024

Our favorite highlight during Nairobi Design Week was the debut of our Hayat Collection. This new upcycled collection seamlessly merges traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design, a demonstration of our dedication to sustainability and cultural heritage preservation. It was wonderful to have attendees captured by the intricate details of our garments, sparking engaging conversations.

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Redefining Clean: The Case for Sustainable Clothing Care
Redefining Clean: The Case for Sustainable Clothing Care

Let's start by challenging the notion that clothes need to be washed after each use. In many cases, garments worn for short durations or in clean environments may not require immediate laundering. By adopting a more discerning approach to clothing care, we can reduce water consumption, energy usage, and wear and tear on our garments.

So, what are the alternatives to frequent washing? Here are some practical tips for sustainable clothing care:

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Social Empowerment Through Upcycling
Social Empowerment Through Upcycling

The shift towards an upcycling mindset encourages resourcefulness, resilience, and the acknowledgment that beauty and potential exist even in what society deems as 'waste.' Embracing upcycled fashion isn't just about wearing unique pieces; it's about endorsing a sustainable style revolution. It's about recognizing that every discarded item has the potential to be something more, and every individual, regardless of their background, has the power to shape their destiny.

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