Blog posts

By Cris Njoki, Founder & CEO of IKOJN

Kenya has always been stylish. From the vibrant khangas of the coast to Nairobi's edgy thrifted looks, fashion has long been a form of expression, identity, and survival in our culture. But now, more than ever, fashion is becoming a matter of responsibility.

A few weeks ago, I was invited to speak on a panel about the difference between sustainable and regenerative fashion. It opened up a conversation that I believe we, as a country, urgently need to have.

What Is Regenerative Fashion?

Sustainable fashion aims to maintain the status quo—do no further harm, reduce waste, and improve working conditions. But regenerative fashion goes a step further. It’s about renewal and healing. It’s about creating systems where fashion contributes positively to the planet—through biodegradable fabrics, zero-waste production, and garments that are designed for reuse and recycling.

It’s not just about not doing harm. It’s about doing good.

My Journey: From Mtumba to Made in Kenya

The first KES 50 dress I ever sold was secondhand. IKOJN was born from mtumba culture—thrifting, curating, and storytelling through clothes. It was accessible, affordable, and entrepreneurial. But as I’ve grown in the industry, I’ve had to reckon with a deeper truth:

Kenya is now the largest importer of secondhand clothes in the world—outpacing countries with three times our population. And 75% of these imports are unwearable. They are waste. Waste that ends up in our landfills, polluting our environment and undermining the growth of our local textile economy.

The Real Cost of “Cheap” Clothes

Secondhand clothing may seem affordable, but the hidden costs are heavy:

• Environmental degradation from textile dumping

• Suppression of local garment production and design

• Exposure to harmful synthetic fibers and chemicals

If we’re going to be honest about sustainability, we must also be honest about the global system that treats African nations as the endpoint for fashion waste.

Are Kenyans Ready for Regenerative Fashion?

That’s the big question. Are Kenyan consumers ready to buy stylish, high-quality garments that are made from recycled or repurposed materials? Are we ready to pay full price when we know the pieces are crafted from what was once considered “waste”?

I believe we can be. But it starts with education, storytelling, and a mindset shift.

We have the creativity. We have the talent. What we need now is the infrastructure:

• Locally produced textiles using sustainable and regenerative methods

• Policies that support eco-entrepreneurs

• Incentives for circular production models

• A fashion curriculum that integrates environmental design principles

Kenya Can Lead

Regenerative fashion isn’t just about clothing. It’s about dignity, sovereignty, and economic power. It’s about building an industry that is by us, for us, and good to us.

At IKOJN, we are committing to exploring ways to incorporate regenerative design into our collections—from deadstock fabric repurposing to limited-run capsule collections that reduce waste.

Because we believe Kenya is not only ready—we are meant to lead.

Join the Movement Have thoughts on regenerative fashion in Kenya? Let’s start a dialogue. Follow us on Instagram or sign up for our newsletter for upcoming events, drops, and discussions.

#MadeInKenya #RegenerativeFashion #IKOJN #CrisNjokiWrites #SustainableStyle #CircularEconomy #KenyanFashion

🎉 Ladies and fashion enthusiasts, the moment we've all been waiting for has finally arrived! Last weekend, Ikojn proudly opened its doors at the vibrant Yaya Centre, marking a new era of style, elegance, and unforgettable fashion experiences.

The Grand Affair:

Our launch event on the 2nd floor of Yaya Centre was nothing short of spectacular. The space buzzed with excitement as we celebrated this milestone with our incredible customers and supporters. The ambiance was set with fabulous fashion, delectable treats, and a soundtrack curated by the sensational DJ Chela.

Local Love & Collaborations:

A special shoutout to our local partners who added their magic to our celebration. EABL treated our guests to tantalizing cocktails, perfectly complemented by the delightful cheese and crackers generously provided by Brown's Cheese. Uncover Skincare made sure our guests left with glowing smiles, offering their premium products at exclusive event prices.

Fashion Finds and Fun: The racks were filled with the latest Ikojn collections, offering a feast for fashion lovers. From chic dresses to trendy accessories, our guests indulged in a shopping spree that perfectly complemented the glamorous atmosphere.

DJ Chela's Beats: Our fantastic female DJ Chela ensured that the energy was high and the dance floor alive throughout the afternoon. Her beats provided the perfect backdrop to a day filled with fashion, fun, and fabulous moments.

Join the Fashion Revolution:

Missed the event? Fret not! Our Yaya Centre store is open and ready to welcome you into a world of fashion-forward delights. Whether you're seeking the perfect dress or the trendiest accessories, Ikojn at Yaya Centre has you covered.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us in making the Ikojn Yaya Centre launch a smashing success. Your support fuels our passion for fashion, and we can't wait to continue this stylish journey with you.

Stay tuned for more fashion, fun, and fabulous moments at Ikojn!

Founder & CEO

Cris Njoki 

While in Fashion School in Nairobi, Cris knew that she wanted to create a Ready To Wear brand that was known for it's impeccable quality, accessibility and exceptional customer service. And that's what she did in 2015 when Ikojn was born. Cris leads her All Star Women Team to continue to offer a top tier shopping experience for all feminine bosses worldwide.

Head of Production

Mary Njeri

Mary started as a junior seamstress at Ikojn in 2017 and has steadily climbed the ranks to the Head of all Production at our manufacturing facility in Nairobi, Kenya. Nothing escapes her watchful eye. She makes leading a team of 20 seamstresses achieve a high level of standard look like a walk in the park.

Head of Communication

Rebecca Wanjiru

Heading the Ikojn communications department, Beck has come a long way from starting out as our photographer. Her team ensures that the Ikojn message is packaged and delivered exactly how we like it. It also helps that she is our founder's sister and had definitely known her longer than most of the team!

Head of HR & Finance

Cecilia Murage

The overall 'mom' of the team and our founder's actual mother! Cecilia joined Ikojn in 2022 during expansion and is easily everyone's favorite. Fantastic with numbers and even better at dishing out delicious snacks!

What is a trench coat?

A trench coat is a waterproof heavy-duty cotton gabardine drill, leather, or poplin outer garment. One of the most interesting aspects of a trench coat is that it was originally 

designed for soldiers. It was used in the trenches during World War I, which is why it is known as a Trench Coat.

History of trench coats and how they became popular

The trench coat was developed as an alternative to the heavy serge greatcoats worn by British and French soldiers in the First World War. The invention of the trench coat is claimed by two British luxury clothing manufacturers, Burberry and Aquascutum, with Aquascutum's claim dating back to the 1850s.

The trench coat was designed specifically for use during the war that inspired its name, a war spent mired in muddy, bloody trenches across Europe. It then evolved into a form that, despite being over 100 years old, remains startlingly current.

Trench coats were popularized by Humphrey Bogart and Peter Sellers in the Pink Panther films, and have since become a fashion staple, available in a variety of colors from brands such as Burberry.

What to consider when choosing a trench coat

Dressing for the changing seasons can be difficult when you have to be ready for rain one minute and splitting sun the next. The timeless trench coat, on the other hand, can help during this fashion state of uncertainty. Your mother most likely had one, and your grandmother most likely did as well.

Personal preferences influence which style to select.

Trench coats are available with wide and narrow lapels, belted, buttoned, and open fronts, long, short, and everything in between. However, following some guidelines to suit your frame never hurts. Short or cropped lengths suit average to short stature, whereas the opposite will frequently dwarf a smaller stature. Those blessed with long legs can pull off long coats of various lengths; however, one that finishes just above the knee is the most common. Consider one with belted wrists to draw attention to slender arms, and a belted middle to draw in that waist.

Color and tone are the most important factors to consider. Trench coats were traditionally made in earthy tones like khaki and beige, as well as black and navy; however, they are now available in every season's color. If you value wearability, stick to the traditional color palette for maximum compatibility with your existing outfits. Don't be shy if your middle name is bold. Take a chance on a trendy color like a spicy mustard yellow or a light blue for the fall season. These vibrant shades suit big personalities and darker skin tones best, but if you have an English rose complexion, pastel and jewel tones will look better on you.

After you've chosen your ideal trench coat, figuring out how to style it is the next step. If you choose to wear your trench coat to work, keep it simple with simple hair and an oversized tote bag. The neutral color scheme is ideal for this occasion and looks effortlessly chic with a skirt suit or shift dress. Unless you're wearing pants, a good rule of thumb is to make sure the hem of your coat falls before the hem of your skirt or dress and match it with high-quality, comfortable heels. A trench coat can also be worn on a day date over jeans or a gypsy dress.

Trench coats are a fantastically versatile piece. They look equally good dressed casually or formally and can withstand a wide range of weather conditions. In the dead of winter, you might want to reach for something heavier (unless you live somewhere very temperate), but it makes an excellent layering piece in the fall and spring. So, do you want to know when you should wear a trench coat? The solution is simple. It can be worn at any time if the weather permits.

Which color and fabric?

Trench coats are available in a variety of colors and fabrics today. Every color is available, from classic camel to neon pink. The fabrics also vary greatly: there are winter wool and leather cover-ups and spring and summer breezy silk cover-ups. It is entirely up to you whether you want a functional or a statement piece. Remember that the traditional cotton gabardine version in a neutral color like camel, gray, navy, or black will be more timeless and easy to style, but if you like statement pieces, go for it.

Pink Trench Coat

The spring season is always associated with the color pink, whether it is dusty rose, baby pink, or another. As a result, the pink trench is extremely popular among women. It gives them a soft, warm, and feminine look. Pink trenches are typically pastel pink and monochromatic. They are an excellent choice for those who prefer a more casual, relaxed, and informal look.

Green Trench Coat

The green trench coat is not a popular choice among women, possibly because green is a difficult color to style. However, in the last two years, the olive green version of the green has become very fashionable. Women choose this color for coats because it is the perfect balance of warm and cold colors and complements almost every color. The green or mint trench coat will get you there if you want to achieve a playful and colorful look.

Black Trench Coat

Black trench coats are less common, but they are stylish and versatile. A black trench coat can be worn with almost anything. Jeans are an excellent choice for a casual outfit.

Trench coat designs in Kenya

A trench coat is worn by almost every lady in Nairobi. Cake has a song about wanting a girl in a short skirt and a long jacket, which is probably every girl in Nairobi these days! If you see a lady in town who isn't wearing a trench coat, it's because it's safely tucked away in their closet, waiting for the temperatures to drop. The good news is that you can wear your trench coats even in warm weather. The key is to leave the trench unbuttoned!

Best trench coat designs

Burberry

We had to start with the original trench: the military coat designed by Thomas Burberry in 1916. The Chelsea design has a ladylike A-line fit and a nipped-in waist, but all of the signatures we know and love are still present. Each one is made of waterproof cotton-gabardine and is embellished with epaulets, storm flaps, buckled collars and cuffs, and lined with that iconic check.

Cos

Cos recently released a slew of technical trench coats made from recycled fibers, and they're flying off the shelves. The spread collar and sweeping lapels give this piece a retro feel, but the showerproof fabric and wide Obi-inspired sash keep things modern.

Reiss

The leather trend is still going strong in 2022, so if you already have a skirt and trousers, it's time to graduate to outerwear. Leather trench coats are typically available in retro tans or gothic blacks, but Reiss' buttery beige shade takes them to a whole new level of luxury.

Toteme

Toteme's drapey, deconstructed trench is ideal if you prefer your staples to be directional. On the surface, this coat appears classic, but the boxy double-breasted overlay, billowy storm flap, and wide sleeves say otherwise.

Your appearance defines you professionally

The physical characteristics that are presented to others through outfit choices, hair grooming, and makeup choices are referred to as appearance. Others frequently regard an individual's physical appearance as a direct reflection of the quality of work produced by that individual, and appearance is frequently the first impression made on a boss, supervisor, coworker, or client. Having a positive first impression is essential for professional success and respect. Workplace appearance is important because your clothing conveys to others your professionalism. When you value your workplace appearance, you demonstrate respect for the company and the work you do.

Choosing the right dress color for the office

The colors you wear to work have a lot more influence on your success (or lack thereof) than you might think. Colors influence how people perceive us, and by adding a few new pieces to your wardrobe, you can positively influence others' opinions of you.

If you've been wearing the same colors to work for years and haven't achieved the success you desire, it's time to change things up and wear colors that can change people's perceptions of you and increase your impact. You may also discover that you enjoy wearing the following colors:

• Black
• You guessed it, wearing black makes you appear more powerful and serious. Business attire in black commands attention. Choose black professional wardrobe staples if you want to increase your influence.
• White
• Did you know that wearing white can give you the appearance of being honest and innocent?
• Brown
• Do you think brown is boring? Consider again. Brown is a color that gives the impression of stability and trustworthiness. This could be a great color to wear to a job interview or during your first few days on the job as you build trust with your bosses and coworkers.

• Red
• You might not think of red as a "work" color, but it can be if you want to be perceived as confident. This is the ideal color to wear to a business meeting in which you are in charge.
• Blue 
• The color blue represents wisdom and truth. Is it any surprise that it's one of the best colors to wear to work? Blue has a calming effect and is associated with intelligence. It is also the most stable of the colors. So, if you work in a volatile or dramatic environment, blue is a great color to wear to relieve stress.

Choosing the right dress size

Official dresses in a Kenyan workspace

• Peplum dress

The peplum dress has been popular for quite some time. When worn, a peplum dress creates the illusion of two pieces (skirt and top). The peplum adds volume to your hips by creating extra horizontal lines across the area and shortening your leg length when worn. Mid-length is the ideal height for a formal peplum dress. The dress can be dressed up with a belt and a nice pair of heels or ankle boots. Peplum dresses are available in a variety of colors and shapes. Other colors to wear to work besides black or gray include maroon, royal blue, and rosewood. 

• Pencil Dress

The pencil dress, like the pencil skirt, draws attention to your curves. The design of these dresses, however, favors curvy but slender figures or hourglass bodies, but they can also be worn by curvy and plump ladies. The pencil dress enhances your features while maintaining the same level of elegance as a business suit. Remember that the dress should not be too tight because it will reveal your undergarments. Purchase one that is double-layered and made of a strong fabric, such as cotton. The pencil dresses are available in a variety of styles.

• Skater dress 

The skater dress complements slim and size bodies with a full bottom and a fitting top. The dress flatters pear-shaped figures. The skater dress works its magic by making full-figured women look smaller and adding volume to skinny women. Plain-colored, stripped, floral, multicolored, and pleated are some of the options available on the market. Wear it with a slim belt, a statement neckpiece, or earrings.

• Suit dress

Who says you need two pieces when you can get the same effect with just one? A suit dress, as the name implies, is a dress that looks like a suit. The dresses come in a variety of styles that will flatter most body types.

Accessories to go with office dresses

Accessorizing can be challenging. It's difficult to find the right accessory to complement your outfit without overpowering it. When you add jewelry, shoes, and handbags to the mix, your outfit suddenly becomes much more complicated. Accessorizing isn't a science, but there are some rules to follow to make it easier. Above all, accessorizing a dress is about finding accessories that complement and complete your outfit.

Shoes to go with office dresses

"A shoe provides much more than just the ability to walk." Christian Louboutin shoes

Diamonds are said to be a woman's best friend. Shoes are! If you had to choose between a diamond ring and fifty pairs of shoes, which would you choose? What will you choose? Don't overthink it; the answer is obvious.

Types of Shoes

Men and women have different meanings for the word "shoes." For the time being, let's ignore the men and focus on everything that pertains to women, as well as how to style them.

Peep toes

The simplest way to accomplish this is to remember that peep toes look great with bare legs. As a result, any short or knee-length dress will work well. If you're not comfortable in stilettos, try wedges, which can also be worn casually. Try flat peep toes and opaque leggings or jeggings with tops that reach the hip.

Pumps

Pumps simply translate to urban and chic, which means that any outfit with a chic appeal will be a good match. Pantsuits, pencil skirts, cigarette pants, and long formal dresses, to name a few examples. However, short dresses with or without sheer stockings look equally good with these. Trench coats or long fur jackets with skinny jeans elevate this look in the winter.

Slip On Shoes

Slip-on was the mommy pants of footwear. Shoes that were once considered boring, dated, and uncool. It didn't take long for them to prove us all wrong. Even crocs were thought to be that when they first appeared. Now, these are considered fashionable, comfortable, and urbane. Simply slide them on and you're done, as the name suggests. You have a lot of fun neon and fast colors. If you think you can pull it off, go for it. Slip-ons and long/short summer dresses are popular right now, among other things.

I've noticed that sometimes finding the right outfit for the occasion is harder than it seems. You should think about the activities you'll engage in while dressing as a woman when choosing what clothing to keep in your closet.

Maxi Dresses For Every Occasion

I've discovered that sometimes finding the right outfit for the occasion is harder than it seems. You should think about the activities you'll engage in while dressing as a lady while choosing what apparel to keep in your closet.

For weddings, maxi dresses can provide a chic and fashionable appeal. You can avoid appearing underdressed by wearing nicer textiles like silk or satin. And of course, stay away from whites and creams unless you want to irritate the bride! Traditional floral prints are a nice option. Another excellent option is to use textiles with a flowy style and plain colors. Your outfit will be finished if you pair this with some strappy sandals and a hat or fascinator.

Maxi Dresses With A Belt

To accentuate your figure and make it appear sexier, pair your maxi dresses with a chunky or slim belt. Not only does wearing a belt improves your appearance overall, but it also gives you a more put-together and dressy appearance.

Maxi Dresses With Boots

Maxi dresses with boots are your go-to outfit if you believe in making an edgier fashion statement. Add your preferred makeup to complete your appearance, and you are ready to go.

Maxi Dresses With Matte Gold Accessories

Maxi dresses with boots are your go-to outfit if you believe in creating an edgy fashion statement. Add your preferred makeup to complete your appearance, and you are ready to go.

Heels And Maxi Dresses

Put on some shoes to spice up even the most basic of clothes. You can select from a selection of pumps to wear with block heels and adjust your outfit as necessary to look attractive.

Today, a variety of online stores provide you with a vast selection of gowns that are made expressly to fit a variety of situations. Long dresses look great on the beach as well as on a date night. You only need to look through the enormous selection online to get a dress that meets all of your needs. 

Tank Dresses For Every Occasion

How Do You Wear A Tank Dress

How to make a tank dress versatile is one query that lots of girls have. Even though you're having lunch with your parents, you might later have a hot date that you want to wow. How do you dress up this casual style and then turn it into something hot minutes later when there isn't much time to go home and get ready again?

Well, you can accomplish this by just putting on and taking off a sweater or jacket. You can dress in a low-cut tank top and cover it with a coordinating cardigan. Once nightfall arrives, remove the cardigan for an instantaneous hot appearance. You can wear a pair of leggings if you truly want to hide. Always add accessories to your outfit to make it stand out more.

Why Have One Tank Dress At Least

Summertime is a great time for tank dresses. The finest part is that they will keep you cool whilst being attractive and elegant. There is nothing worse than walking past a man who is drenched in perspiration and looking for a cool place to dine or shop. They are also easy to put on and take off quickly. If you enjoy going to the beach, you can quickly get to the beach by slipping on this tank dress. Additionally, since this stylish dress looks fantastic on its own, you do not need to worry about whether your bottoms match your top.

Vintage Dresses For Any Occasion

A vintage dress is an ideal method to join your upcoming big occasion with style and flair because everything old is newly fashionable. Vintage dresses are a great option when you want to stand out from the crowd because they are just as stunning today as they were when they were first worn decades ago. When you look at vintage clothing, you can find the ideal look, whether you want to channel Audrey Hepburn with a simple black dress or you want something that looks like it belongs in the swanky 1930s.

Black or White Maxi Dresses For Any Occasion 

White Dresses

White may still be a brilliant color, even though the main trend this year is focused on strong hues and vibrant patterns. White is a very versatile color that can be used in a variety of ways and makes an exceedingly elegant statement. Women's fashion accessories are the secret to transforming a plain white dress into something uniquely your own. A white dress also looks wonderful with fashionable scarves. Fashion scarves may greatly enhance any white dress you select because there are so many vibrant colors and patterns to choose from.

Nothing, in my opinion, better captures the essence of summer than a white sundress, which can be worn in either a casual or formal way. The most versatile form of clothing, and one that offers the greatest value for your money, can be dressed up and then worn down. The sleeveless dress, in my opinion, is the most adaptable garment on the market right now. When wearing this type of clothing, you can simply dress it up for the workplace with cropped jackets and sweaters and dress it down for a night out or a day at the beach.

A lovely white dress can serve as both a beach cover-up and a dress. You may be confident that your favorite white dress is the ideal swimming cover-up, regardless of the design or color of your bathing suit. A great white dress has so many uses that it is as essential to own as the little black dress everyone is familiar with. Whether you prefer strapless, halter, maxi, or smock dresses, you can unquestionably be found wearing white. This year's dresses for women are understated and sophisticated, which works well on women of all body types.

Black Dresses

Most women and fashion experts think that a black dress, the most fundamental piece of a lady's wardrobe, makes a woman look attractive and seductive. Black dresses look sophisticated and up the glam factor for every occasion. Given its versatility, a black dress can be dressed up either on its own or with additional appropriate accessories, depending on the situation, to create several ensembles using the same dress.

Christmas party: Pair your black dress with red heels. It's party season, so sparkle and bling are welcome. Red or crystal drops make for stunning and seductive earrings. The outfit will be finished with a crimson belt and clutch. You look even more beautiful when you have red lips.

Holiday Get-Together You've been asked to a holiday gathering, but you're not sure what to dress. The finest dress to wear is black. Beige or neutral colors appear elegant next to black. Choose a pair of chic nude or beige shoes to go with your outfit. A black clutch with some bling is necessary to complete the holiday look. A bracelet and a pair of sparkling earrings, in terms of jewelry, complete the look.

Attending Events: Some celebrities choose to dress entirely in black. A pair of sheer black hose and a tiny black dress with no sleeves gives off a sensual appearance. To make it elegant, lace it up a bit. The elegance is enhanced with black clothing, shoes, and a purse. Don't pull your hair back.

Cocktail Parties: Some celebrities choose to dress entirely in black. A pair of sheer black hose and a tiny black dress with no sleeves gives off a sensual appearance. To make it elegant, lace it up a bit. The elegance is enhanced with black clothing, shoes, and a purse. Don't pull your hair back.