Rocks & Stones Images courtesy of Bill Muganda
Fashion for conservation Introducing the colourful clothing company Rock and Stones
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stablished in 2009, Rock and Stones is a colourful and contemporary clothing brand whose designs are inspired by Swahili culture and its relationship with West Africa, India, Arabia, Europe and the Americas. The company first set out as a jeweller ten years ago, but after a successful run experimenting in designing clothing pieces from vibrant kanga fabric, the company took off as a clothing brand specialising in casual clothing including festival and beach wear.
Popular fabrics Using the popular fabrics kanga and kitenge, Rock and Stones creates ubiquitous pieces but with a cultural statement relating to the political, social and religious expressions of the wearer. The patterns include bold, bright patterns in multiple colours, ranging from post-modern abstractions to traditional paisleys. But the pieces aren’t just functional; they are both beautiful
LIFE IN COLOUR Rock & Stones produce fun and bright garments
and ethical. In their successful 10 years of business, Rock and Stones has worked with a number of conservation projects including Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Sweet Waters Chimpanzee Sanctuary and most recently, The Milgis Trust, where the company donated five percent of its revenues from its Christmas sale towards the purchase of binoculars to help scouts with wildlife monitoring. Additionally, and thanks to their passion of beachwear, Rock & Stones has shown support for the Kuruwitu Conservation Project and the Welfare Community Based Organisation.
Suporting communities The company also supports the local communities that help to produce the Rock and Stones garments. Future plans include setting up its own training workshop to offer life skills to members of the community who are keen to work with Rock and Stones. Head to the company’s website, www.rockandstones.com to read more about the Rock and Stones brand and to shop pieces online. 16
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