Hamaji
© HAMAJI STUDIO 2025
From the beautiful white sand beaches and sunlit savannahs of Kenya to the bustling markets and vivid tapestries of India, Hamaji which means nomad in Coastal Swahili is the perfect marriage of traditional craftsmanship and a heartfelt tribute to the founder’s cultural heritage.
Founded by Louise Sommerlatte in 2017, the brand celebrates the ancestral techniques and intricate handiwork that have shaped generations of textile heritage. Drawing inspiration from the colours of the savannah and the textures of nature, Hamaji creates clothing that feels modern and yet rooted in traditon.
By blending the earthy tones and textures of Kenya with the opulent patterns and colours of India, Hamaji creates garments that feel timeless and contemporary- a true celebration of global craftsmanship. Each piece is crafted with care, using natural fibres, up-cycled vintage textiles and botanical dyes while often featuring intricate hand embroidery or beadwork completed by skilled local artisans.
Through her designs, Louise honours the artisans behind each creation, providing fair wages and preserving aged techniques that might otherwise fade into obscurity. Hamaji Studio isn’t just a brand; it’s a movement towards mindful fashion, where every thread carries a story of culture, sustainability and artistry.
Central to Hamaji Studio's philosophy is the use of natural fibres and organic materials. By selecting eco-friendly fabrics, the brand minimizes its impact on the environment and ensures that each garment is both gentle on the skin and the planet. Hamaji also incorporates upcycled vintage textiles into their designs, promoting circularity and giving new life to materials that might otherwise contribute to landfill waste, a growing problem in Africa.
The brand collaborates closely with local artisans, particularly women like Beatrice & Stella who hand knit all Hamaji’s knitted pieces with a combination of hand spun silk and cotton. Thanks to Hamaji, local artisans like them can now earn a living and work from the comfort of their homes. By fostering these relationships, Hamaji Studio contributes to the sustainability of the communities it engages with.
Beatrice & Stella at the foot of Mt Kenya, knitting.
Beyond its stunning designs, transparency and ethical practices are pillars of Hamaji Studio's production process. Every garment reflects the care and respect Louise and her team have for the people who make them and the planet that sustains us all. The brand ensures that all artisans work in safe conditions and are adequately rewarded for their skills. By maintaining close relationships with their supply chain and production teams, Hamaji Studio upholds high ethical standards and promotes more equitable fashion.
Hamaji’s effort is a reminder that fashion CAN and should be more than just clothing. It can be a force for good and a way to celebrate culture while embracing a sustainable future.In essence, the brand stands as a testament to how fashion can be a vehicle for positive change and ethical responsibility. It calls on us to think differently about what we wear and to see beauty not just in the finished product but in the journey it took to create it.
Hamaji Studio’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and ethical production has earned it AYA's stamp of approval. For the eco-conscious consumer seeking fashion that aligns with their values, Hamaji is the perfect choice. By choosing Hamaji, you’re not just investing in beautiful, timeless pieces, you’re supporting a movement that honours heritage, uplifts communities and protects the planet for generations to come.
