In the heart of Abidjan, where culture, history, and innovation intersect, Loza Maleombho stands as a pioneering force in African fashion. Her designs fuse contemporary aesthetics with traditional African craftsmanship—a testament to her commitment to preserving cultural heritage while pushing the boundaries of modern design. But beyond the striking silhouettes and bold textures lies a journey defined by resilience, innovation, and an unyielding vision to place African fashion on the global map.
Born in Brazil and raised between Côte d’Ivoire and the United States, Maleombho’s multicultural upbringing became the foundation of her distinctive design philosophy. She pursued a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Animation at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, an education that sharpened her artistic instincts and honed her ability to tell stories through visual mediums. She also trained with esteemed fashion designers such as Jill Stuart, Yigal Azrouël, and Cynthia Rowley, gaining invaluable experience in the competitive world of high fashion.
Loza Maleombho established her namesake label in New York City in 2009 before relocating operations to Côte d’Ivoire.
“I was captivated by the idea of expressing identity through clothing,” Maleombho recalls. The decision to return home was both bold and intentional. “I wanted to produce locally and empower artisans,” she says.
Her brand is a seamless fusion of Ivorian traditions and modern fashion, constantly experimenting with the energies between Ivorian tribal aesthetics and New York’s urban style. This unique blend became her signature—an aesthetic that speaks to both African heritage and the fast-paced cosmopolitan world.
Her breakout moment came in 2015 when international superstar Beyoncé wore a Loza Maleombho design in the music video for “Formation.” “That moment changed everything,” she admits. Suddenly, the world took notice of her distinctive aesthetic—a harmonious blend of futuristic cuts and African symbolism.
Maleombho’s designs transcend mere fashion. Her collections often carry sociopolitical commentary, addressing themes of identity, power, and decolonization. “Fashion is my medium of storytelling,” she explains. Pieces from her collections, such as the iconic ‘Baoulé Mask’ sandals, are not just wearable art—they are visual dialogues between past and future.
Her innovative spirit extends beyond the runway. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Maleombho launched the #AlienEdits Instagram series, a visual exploration of African spirituality and futurism.
The project amplified African narratives globally while showcasing her capacity to innovate in digital spaces.
Maleombho’s influence extends beyond her designs. She is a vocal advocate for the African fashion ecosystem, frequently highlighting the need for sustainable supply chains and fair labor practices. “The future of African fashion lies in collaboration and ethical innovation,” she emphasizes.
Her work has earned her a place among Africa’s most influential designers, with features in Vogue, Elle, and Forbes.
Despite the accolades, her vision remains rooted in uplifting African voices. “My mission is to reframe the African narrative through fashion,” she states passionately.
As she looks to the future, Maleombho envisions expanding her brand’s global footprint while continuing to nurture the next generation of African creatives. “Africa is not the future—we are the now,” she declares.
In a world where fashion often mirrors society, Loza Maleombho is not just designing clothes; she is crafting a legacy—one that celebrates African identity while daring the world to take notice.
