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How and when did your passion for fashion begin?

My love for fashion started long ago when I was still a little boy. Those days, my bigger brother and I used to don suspenders that made our dressing style standout among our peers. Growing up, I had an affinity for anything unique. I was into smart-casual, then quickly transitioned to suits when I joined Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology. 

So, how well can you describe your style?

I’d define my routine style as polished. I believe nothing screams class and professionalism than a polished fashion sense. It always makes me stand out. To achieve this, I always don custom-fit and personalised clothing. 

Where do you draw your daily inspiration for the good looks?

Usually, the inspiration comes from my surroundings, majorly the people I interact with on a daily basis, my clients, and the environment in general. The people I look up to also inspire me a lot. You can only make it happen in life if you emulate people that are more successful than you. Similarly, fashion entails sensitivity, thus weather and occasion inspires my daily dressing. The nature of my work also naturally dictates that I have to look the part; therefore, my potential clients too are a huge inspiration for my daily looks. 

How do you keep yourself updated about the new trends in fashion?

In this era of internet and social media craze, it’s hard to miss the ever evolving fashion trends. I have subscribed to several online fashion magazines including The Rake, and Modern Gentleman, just to stay in the loop. I also follow the best of the best in this business through their social media sites so as to keep learning. YouTube is the biggest resource anybody should trust; everything from basics to high fashion is there and from different angles. 

Now, tell us more about your suits business.

Derick Suits is something that has always been in my dream; my career revolved much in the events management space and ironically I started with campus modelling events. Recently, I saw an opportunity and that is how Derick Suits was born. My brand is currently focused on well-fit bespoke suits for both gender, and slowly I am also venturing into African print designs. 

Your best fashion brand is?

Dolce & Gabbana any day. I love the simplicity, persistence, finesse and premium quality they bring into their designs. 

Which fashion icons do you look up to both locally and internationally?

Locally, I have to give it to my friend and campus mate Ashok Sunny. We have a rich history and I am proud to have seen him set the pace. Internationally, Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana, the guys behind Dolce & Gabbana, are the bomb!

What’s the most cynical fashion misconception?

In my line of fashion, most designers tend to believe everyone does tight fittings. This is not absolute. Going with the current trends, one should rather invest properly in tailored pieces that will be best for your clientele.  

Do you think that someone’s dressing style defines their personality?

I absolutely agree with that. The way you dress will make you either earn respect from people or lose it. Donning a well-fitted designer suit will definitely impress people wherever you are and boost your personal confidence. Currently, I have ambitions to contest the Kahawa Wendani MCA seat in the August polls, and I would say that the way I dress played a big part in people endorsing me as a leader, right from campus.

How would you advise someone with a desire to venture in the fashion business?

Dreams are valid. If you really have that feeling and inner desire, let it sprout. Personally, I hold no space for regrets in my life. Just try to be unique, and your brand shall become. 

What’s your view on the local fashion sector?

Honestly, our industry is still at infancy stage, but with a lot of potential, and so far so good. It’s encouraging to see Kenyans embrace local designers and brands. All the industry needs is the recognition, support and trust, and we will be in competition with internationally established brands.