Hemma creates fresh, elegant collections using authentic hand-woven Kente, a textile rich in African royal tradition. Kente began to flourish in West Africa in the 17th century and still remains prominent representing social prestige, luxury, and cultural sophistication. Each garment is uniquely handmade from intricately hand-woven Kente imported from Ghana. By incorporating the same techniques used to dress Ghanaian nobility for centuries, Hemma allows each client to exude royalty. By investing in quality pieces that last a lifetime, the lives of Ghanaian school children are also impacted. A percentage of all proceeds will be donated to a West African middle school where the designers instructed classes.

Wednesday, April 29, 2009

African inspiration on 2009 Fashion

TIME magazine recently printed an 'Out of Africa' spread. The Beauty and Quality that comes from the continent has never been realized or appreciated as much as it is today. Designers in this spread include but not limited to LV, Dior, Lim, Choo, Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, Vivienne Westwood, Alexis Bittar. Hemma is in good company and as more designers are inspired by Africa, we are collectively creating intricate, luxe and timeless pieces that will stand the test of time.

Kudos to Arlenis Sosa Pena who is stunning as usual in this spread, breaking molds and blazing her own trail as one of the first and already hugely successful international Dominican super models. It's time for all of us to break the mold!

What do you think about these different looks?

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Hemma Supporting Economic Growth!

This economic downturn that the world is currently experiencing is on everyone's mind, as it should be. We should all strive to be a bit more socially conscious and aware of the economic and governmental decisions that are being made for us. Have an opinion, take a stand, act...that means different things for different people. Companies are no different than individuals. Hemma is doing its part to create economic growth around the world during this recession.

- Hemma supports Bonwire, the Kente village where Hemma was born, by exclusively purchasing its raw materials from the weavers and vendors that make their livelihood solely form Kente.

- Hemma provides loyal business to a small group of tailors in Ghana that work exclusively producing our one-of-a-kind garments.

- Hemma's abroad logistics are handled by its full-time Operations Manager in Ghana who is incredibly dedicated to its success. We are devoted to providing fair wages and fair treatment for all of our staff in order to build a symbiotic work environment where everyone benefits!

- Hemma donates a portion of its profits to La Yahoushua, the middle school where both Cindy and I taught classes.

- In the US, small business is the backbone of the nation, and Hemma is proud to be a part of stimulating economic growth and the enlivening of the entrepreneurial spirit, even in times of hardship. Our local staff in NY allow this cross-continental endeavor to be possible.

Hemma is doing its part to bring not only the nation but the world back to its feet by persevering through the tough times and remaining optimistic about the future. In this highly globalized and technological climate, we are all interconnected. Hemma bridges the gap between 2 continents and looks forward to soon being connected to the entire globe.

Are you or your company finding ways to stimulate economic growth? Let us know how...