Loza Maleombho is a rising force in the fashion industry, captivating the world with her innovative designs that seamlessly blend Ivorian heritage with contemporary aesthetics. From gracing the pages of Vogue to being featured on icons like Beyoncé, Maleombho is not only shaping the future of artisanal fashion but also inspiring a new generation of African designers and entrepreneurs.
Born in Brazil and raised between the United States and Côte d'Ivoire, Maleombho's multicultural upbringing set the foundation for her unique design perspective. She began her education at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, where she immersed herself in exploring a mixture of traditional craftsmanship and modern design.
After earning her degree, Maleombho solidified her skills in New York City, interning with renowned designers such as Jill Stuart, Yigal Azrouël, and Cynthia Rowley. These formative experiences and rich cultural heritage propelled Maleombho to create her self-titled label in 2009. Shortly after, she was honored with the Emerging Designer of the Year Award by Arise Fashion Magazine in 2012 for her AW12 Collection.
Nearly a decade later, Maleombho's innovative designs took center stage in Beyoncé's award-winning musical film Black Is King, a vibrant celebration of African culture through traditions, dance, music, and artistry. Maleombho's striking black-and-white printed ensemble, decorated with bold gold hardware, became an instant sensation, sending her brand into the global spotlight. The surge in demand caused her website to crash and solidified the Maleombho label as a rising force in the fashion industry and a name correspondent with contemporary African luxury and sustainable fashion.
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Maleombho's brand remains deeply rooted in her Ivory Coast heritage, skillfully blending storytelling with exquisite craftsmanship to create captivating, boundary-pushing designs. Her latest collection, the Cabin Crew Line, emerges as a bold collaboration with Vivajets, a leading African private airline. This collection reimagines traditional flight crew fashion through the lens of African culture, mixing vibrant colors, striking silhouettes, and bold lines to evoke the sophistication and elegance of flying aboard Vivajets' luxurious charters. Each piece celebrates the elegance of air travel while also paying tribute to Africa's rich traditions and artistry. Showcasing her passion for her cultural background as well as her interest in African history and its incorporation into her designs.
Beyond her designs, Maleombho is a continued advocate for bringing African culture and designs into mainstream fashion. In an interview with Vogue, Maleombho states, "I wanted to create a sustainable space, which allows for the creation of jobs and opportunities for Ivorian artisans, and which inspires younger locals into entrepreneurship. It was important for me to have a higher purpose than just creating a clothing line." This vision has not only empowered artisans by showcasing their craftsmanship on a global stage but inspired a new generation of African designers to embrace their heritage while pursuing fashion. By blending purpose and design, Maleombho is reshaping the narrative around African fashion and demonstrating its ability to influence and transform the industry.
As for what's next for Loza Maleombho, she recently stated in an interview with global media brand Nataal that she hopes to create an exhibition for her Alien Edits Collection, publish a coffee table book, and expand her workshop, all at an organic pace that complements her busy career. In the meantime, her work will continue to captivate audiences, whether styled on celebrities like Solange Knowles or featured in major fashion publications.
To shop Loza Maleombho's collection of shoes and accessories, click here. From her Leather Cross Front Platform Mules or Gold-Platted Platform Sandals to her Black Peplum Leather Belt, you will be inspired to find your next go-to pair of shoes or statement accessory.
Pictured: Leather Cross Front Platform Mules
Banner Photo Courtesy Of okayafrica.com
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