Meet Diman Mkare, a household name in style and fashion in Kenya

Congratulations on your newly launched clothline. What prompted you to venture into this path?

Thank you. I have always been passionate about fashion since my high school days. I admired other designers who would dress to kill and still dress others and stand out.

I was also inspired by Tanzanian musician Juma Jux, who is also a designer under the African Boy label. He is creative when it comes to suits and shoes and I wanted to follow in his footsteps. I thank God that it has now come to pass and I have my clothline.

Does your brand cut across the fashion board?

Yes, it does. Before I launched it, I did thorough research for almost two years; reading fashion magazines and following trends for both the women and men. I am confident that once they purchase the brands they will appreciate it. Children have not been left out as well. In short, we offer a great variety and not limited to clothes.  

What are some of the different brands under the DM Classics label?

Currently, I am selling duffle bags for Sh3,500, laptop bags at Sh3,000, T-shirts that range from Sh1,000 to Sh1,500 and caps for Sh1,000. 

You are known for constantly calling out celebrities with bad fashion taste. Where do you think they go wrong?

I do so because some have the style, but are vague when it comes to fashion. Note that in fashion, it’s not all about dressing good, but also understanding what you are wearing; I mean we have fashion rules when it comes to fashion. For example, when it comes to the two-button blazers, you are not supposed to button the bottom one, and that’s a fashion rule many people with style often fail to observe. 

 Which celebrities do you think need an extreme makeover?

The Kansoul (Mejja, Madtraxx and Kid Kora). They are completely disinterested in their appearances; keeping in mind they are a renowned music group in East Africa. I wish they would just pay a little attention to fashion. 

 On the other hand, which celebrity do you think has accomplished looks that you can praise?

 I believe R&B singer Otile Brown and gospel musician Masterpiece have outdone themselves when it comes to style and fashion. More so, they know how to showcase that celebrity image. 

What inspires your daily look?

I challenge myself daily, especially with my looks. I read a lot of fashion magazines and follow how the high-end designers play with colours, patterns and basic things such as a belt, shoe or accessories. 

 How does your style reveal your personality and lifestyle?

Those who know me well are aware that I am a bold and confident individual. This attribute is utterly reflected in my style. I’m not afraid of trying new things. 

 So, how do the right or wrong outfit affect somebody’s personality?

When you don’t wear the right clothes your confidence levels go down and as a result, your productivity (in terms of work output) goes down. Holistically, this gives you a negative image.

On the other hand, wearing the right clothes will win you all the good attributes. You become more confident in yourself and this reflects in whatever you’d be pursuing in any given time. 

What’s the biggest mistake men make when it comes to fashion?

Paying too much attention to what others are wearing. Style is personal. As much as we should pay attention to the latest trends, remember that fashion is like bubble gum, but style is forever.

What elements of your job do you enjoy most?

Styling celebrities, especially on music videos. 

What are your five must-have items a man should have?

 A designer perfume, watch, pair of black shoes, designer suit and belt. 

 What do you spend on mostly?

Shoes and cologne. 

 How many pairs of shoes do you have?

I have over 350 pairs. 

What’s the most expensive item in your wardrobe?

My watch. A white-gold Rolex submariner that cost me Sh45,000.

Have you ever received any fashion award?

Yes. I won the Creative Stylist of the Year at the Namibia Fashion Week in 2016. 

What’s your style secret weapon?

Trust your instincts. Take sartorial risks, but when you think a certain outfit is not working, don’t step out in it, because you are probably right.