Irene Muthami is a Nairobi-based fashion designer who embodies the fusion of science, technology, and creative design. Inspired by nature, global cultures, and innovative fabric manipulation techniques, Irene’s work is a testament to skill and a unique juxtaposition of diverse elements. Her journey in fashion began unexpectedly, evolving from a science-oriented upbringing to discovering her passion in textile design and fashion.
Growing up in a family with a scientific background, Irene’s initial exposure to the arts was limited. Despite this, a home sewing machine, a common household item of her mother’s generation, hinted at a latent creative environment. Although her initial foray into home science in high school was brief, her path shifted after high school. Engineering aspirations gave way to design, a field suggested by her sister as a burgeoning industry. Initially entering the design world without a clear understanding, Irene navigated through challenges in practical art classes. However, the theoretical aspects of design and art history captivated her. The introduction to textile design foundation units marked a turning point, unveiling her aptitude and passion. Specializing in Fashion and Textiles Design in her third year of study became a natural progression.
Under the guidance of lecturer Ogake Mosomi, Irene honed her fashion and textile design skills over two years. She mastered the intricate process of developing a clothing collection, encompassing conceptualization, research, sketching, pattern drafting, sewing, and runway presentation. Her mother’s sewing machine, her first, became an invaluable tool during this formative stage. Post-graduation, Irene refined her expertise and work ethic through experiences with various local companies, notably Panah Ltd. These experiences paved the way for her independent venture, where she continues to develop her brand and refine her skills, aiming to establish a robust fashion presence.
Irene Muthami’s portfolio showcases a diverse range of designs, reflecting her innovative approach and technical skill.
Her vision is to become a fashion-production powerhouse, a goal intrinsically linked to the concept of a Fashion Godown. Irene aims to establish a large-scale fashion godown to efficiently produce and distribute affordable ready-to-wear clothing across the Kenyan market. This fashion godown will be the heart of her operation, enabling her mission to stock Kenyan retail outlets with innovative, sustainable, and accessibly priced garments. The core values driving her business – growth, quality, accountability, hard work, and sustainability – will be embedded within the operations of her envisioned fashion godown. This strategic approach includes meticulous product and market research, production capacity expansion centered around the fashion godown, robust business structures, strategic brand identity and marketing, continuous value addition to her products, and collaborative partnerships. Irene Muthami’s 18-month plan is a roadmap towards realizing her vision of a thriving fashion godown and a powerful ready-to-wear fashion presence in Kenya.
