ASILI

Our love letter to what already exists.

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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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EMPRESS

$163.00

Rich deep-plum velvet and denim crop jacket in a wrap style, with an oversized collar and dramatic sleeves. A fitted silhouette that balances softness and strength.

Fits: M, L

Measurements:
Shoulders 16 in,
Chest 40 in,
Armhole 10 in,
Sleeve 27 in,
Length 16.5 in

Upcycled from: Curtain, thrifted fabric

One of one. Handmade at the Maisha by Nisria studio in Gilgil, Kenya.

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UNBROKEN

$135.00

Wide-leg trousers that fall in a relaxed, almost fluid shape. A clean finish and minimal detailing let the fabric take centre stage, giving the piece a quietly refined presence.

Fits: M

Measurements:
Waist 26 in,
Hips 42 in,
Length 46.5 in,
Hem circumference 25 in

Upcycled from: Thrifted fabric, cut-offs

One of one. Handmade at the Maisha by Nisria studio in Gilgil, Kenya.

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PRESTIGE

$190.00

Textured denim gives this jacket a clean, refined finish, while sculptural dark sleeves create a striking contrast. Rounded volume at the sides adds drama without losing the neat lines. Confident, artistic and quietly powerful.

Fits: M, L

Measurements:
Shoulders 15.5 in,
Chest 38 in,
Armhole 10 in,
Sleeve 24 in,
Length 19 in

Upcycled from: Thrifted fabric, fibre

One of one. Handmade at the Maisha by Nisria studio in Gilgil, Kenya.

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STATURE

$150.00

Maroon sections bring depth and warmth against a cool, textured blue centre, creating a striking split of colour across the silhouette. Cord tracing the neckline and waist adds an almost hand-drawn detail. Artful, self-assured and slightly nostalgic.

Fits: S, M, L, Free-fitted

Measurements:
Shoulders 32.5 in (extended),
Chest 56 in,
Armhole 13.5 in,
Waist and hips free-fitted,
Length 31 in

Upcycled from: Mat, thrifted fabric, macramé cord

One of one. Handmade at the Maisha by Nisria studio in Gilgil, Kenya.

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METTLE

$135.00

Pleats at the front and back create fullness and let the fabric flow naturally. Expressive, youthful and full of personality, with a fine balance of print, proportion and structure.

Fits: M
Measurements:
Waist 30 in,
Seat 49 in,
Length 33 in

Upcycled from: Bedsheet, cut-offs One of one. Handmade at the Maisha by Nisria studio in Gilgil, Kenya.

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MASTERY

$149.00

Soft multicoloured motifs give this jacket an almost illustrated quality, making it feel playful and confidently unconventional.

Fits: M, L
Measurements:
Shoulders 21 in,
Chest 46 in,
Armhole 10 in,
Sleeve 33 in,
Length 24 in

Upcycled from: Curtain, thrifted fabric One of one. Handmade at the Maisha by Nisria studio in Gilgil, Kenya.

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SEREIN

$135.00

Blue and ivory panels arranged in broad sections give these trousers a distinctly constructed look. Large functional pockets and a gathered hem make them practical, distinctive and creative.

Fits: L, XL
Measurements:
Waist 30 to 33 in (elastic and cord),
Seat 46 in,
Length 41.5 in,
Hem circumference 25 in

Upcycled from: Curtain, cut-offs One of one. Handmade at the Maisha by Nisria studio in Gilgil, Kenya.

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VEYRA

$135.00

Utility-inspired flap pockets add dimension, while detailing on the sleeves and smaller panels brings an unexpected decorative touch and a flash of warmth. A considered, contemporary jacket with a crafted feel.

Fits: L, XL

Measurements: Shoulders 21.5 in, Chest 49 in, Armhole 12 in, Sleeve 28 in, Length 24.5 in Upcycled from: Curtain, thrifted fabric

One of one. Handmade at the Maisha by Nisria studio in Gilgil, Kenya.

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.

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:

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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