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.

Friday, October 16, 2009

Out and About in Hemma - New York Spring 2010 Fashion Week

Who can stand not love fashion week for its high-paced nature with fashion full of risks and innovation? Carefully planned and executed art in the form of apparel makes it one of my favorite times of the year. Hemma had to join in on the festivities during New York Spring 2010 Fashion week. One of the most memorable events was Bergdorf Fashion's Night Out hosted at the flagship store on 5th Avenue and 58th Street.

We enjoyed it all: from the intriguing mayhem created by Victoria Beckham and the Olsen Twins to meeting the star of one of my nighttime guilty pleasures while studying for the LSATs, Heroes.

There was an amazing exhibit on the upper floor displaying a slew of the most provocative Vogue spreads in history pushing the limits of what readers considered beautiful.

There is only one fix for getting over fashion week: Critiquing the collections while anxiously awaiting next season...

Click here for full Spring 2010 New York, London, Milan & Paris fashion week coverage!

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Oscar De La Renta & his African Inspirations

Oscar De La Renta created this look for his Spring 2009 collection and it's a great example of the huge African inspiration that's been hitting the catwalk for the last year. Is it Obama? Is it the natural progression of things? or has African couture just reached its tipping point...maybe all three from the looks of what celebs and the masses are beginning to fall in love with. Either way, the continent is a beautiful source of inspiration with much much more to offer....and Hemma will be on the forefront bringing it to you!

Sunday, October 11, 2009

Obama & the Nobel Peace Prize: What do you think?

Obama was recently given the 2009 Nobel Peace Prize for his "extraordinary efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and cooperation between peoples."

There has been expected controversy over this decision and no matter what your position, the fact that people are talking is a wonderful move away from apathy and towards thoughtful conscientious progress.

Obama seems to agree that this momentous act should not be taken as a pat on the back but as "a call to action." There is much work to be done, not just by Barack but by every individul who plays a part in creating the society that we live in today.

What you think?

Monday, October 5, 2009

We're Back. Hemma Launching Fall 2009

We at Hemma have been preparing for our 2009 launch and with that we've been away for a bit setting the stage for a fabulous experience. Don't worry folks, we are back and here to stay, bringing you all that the Fall collection has to offer. An international twist on the Luxe & Chic style of nyc! Preview a few of our favs to be matched with KENTE this fall! Its all about the boots this Fall, knee high or thigh high for a really dramatic effect.

The trench coat will undoubtedly be a staple for the season. Along with this, don't forget your Military styled jackets & shoulder padded blazers. Structured tops are back in and chic-er than ever. Big bags have been in for a while and aren't going anywhere. The bigger the better. Enjoy all the space ladies!

Let's not forget the one shoulder dresses and tops making a come back too.

Accessorize!

This season is all about being bold, confident and unique...being all of these things, Hemma's timing couldn't be better.