Photography: Pata Pic Kenya 

The term modest fashion can be interpreted in a number of different ways. However, it is typically used to describe clothing that conceals rather than accentuates the shape of the body.

The clothing can include hijabs and burqas, as well as tops, trousers, jackets, and dresses that feature a modest cut. While the decision to wear this type of clothing can be due to religious or cultural reasons, it can also be worn to attain a more modest aesthetic (e.g this post).

The modest fashion movement has become prominent in the Kenyan fashion scene where fashion bloggers and designers offer examples of appropriate clothing that allows for self-expression without sacrificing one’s religious beliefs with the inclusion of long-sleeved dresses, high necklines, midi dresses, and maxi skirts.

This blog post is my rendition of the modest style with the incorporation of pleated skirts which is one of my favorite pieces to wear to work. Sometimes separates can seem like they’re more difficult to put together, but you can wear a pleated skirt with anything. I love to pair pleated skirts with everything from tees and moto jackets to sweaters, button-ups, and even off the shoulder tops.

They’re also versatile enough to wear round. You can pair a pleated skirt with boots and a sweater during the colder months, and in the hot Nairobi days, I love the look with cute sandals. It’s also an easy piece to dress up or down.

Team a pleated skirt with a graphic tee and sneakers for a more casual vibe, or wear a pleated skirt with a button-up and pumps for a classic work look.

This right here is next level fashion genius — and a cute going out outfit, when you want to show up in something a bit unexpected.

How many of us dreamed of being an astronaut at some point when we were younger? NASA fits into the mold where it not only has broad appeal, but there is almost nothing to dislike about it. Just for this reason, I am obsessed with this shirt. In order to snatch my waist, I tucked it in and paired it with this is a lovely belt: well made, with a quality Western-style buckle, definitely a keeper.

For eye-wear, I went for the pointy V-shape cat-eye frames sunglasses that have become another favorite of mine. It makes everyone’s face look wider, so if you’re self-conscious about having a wide face (which some people are!) then they might not be for you. But in general, they’re probably the most approachable, universally flattering sunglasses you could own.

Plaid jackets are my new obsession, they double as a really trendy top when you button it up! When shopping for one, make sure the blazer is just a little oversized, you’re going to want to get your hands on one you can wear to any occasion. I am borrowing the plaid menswear button-up from Sherlock Holmes and making it my own. Mark my words — a plaid blazer is the “it” fashion item of the season

Outfit Details

Sunglasses: Kadenyi Pop Up

Jacket: Zara

Necklace: Forever 21

T-shirt: NASA

Belt: H&M, sold out but found one on Amazon

Skirt: Gifted

Bag: DKNY

Watch: Movement

Rings and Bangles: Maasai Market

Boots: Mango

I am loving the modest fashion look within the industry because it’s also shone a light on the (obvious) facts that women of different shapes, faiths, colors, sizes, and backgrounds can be just as stylish and can be equally valuable customers.

So why not skip the little black dress for your next evening out, and put together a fresh, fashionable outfit in a colorful pleated skirt and a matching top, or even better, a classic modest fashion look, with a long striped jacket or cardigan layered over top. Venturing out from your personal style to try other silhouettes and trends is how we evolve our personal style.

Thank you so much for reading this, and see you in the next one…

Stay stylish,

Kadenyi.

The post Modest Fashion: Kadenyi’s Rendition appeared first on Kadenyi.

Photographer : Vince Oyolo

I am always out and about exploring fun events, restaurants and new Art/music in Kenya. The Kenyan creative scene is growing every day with so much variety it makes my soul swoon. On this road of discovery, I happen to meet one of my Favorite performers and now good friend; Kenyan-American rapper Barak Jacuzzi. He hosted  first ever “Barak Jacuzzi & Friends 90s Jam” at the Creative Garage to celebrate his latest release and the theme was 90’s. The crowd and I did not waste any time and had so much fun creating oldie looks like we were back in the 90s.

This time round, he held a casual documentary film of the making of the Juice Bar 2 Album at J’s Bar which was such a different feel to his last event.

I went with a bunch of my friends and Sister Yimbiha, watched the film, drank some cocktails and had thee most amazing chicken skewers. I have a whole vlog (Video Blog) about it HERE.

If you are ever looking for a weekend plan just check our Barak Jacuzzi instagram, he is always doing a show and never disappoints.

 Outfit Details

Sunglasses & Choker : Kadenyi Pop UP

Denim Jacket: Denim Co

Crop Top: Thrifted

Watch : Aldo

Rings and Bracelet : Maasai Market

Jeans: Zara

Boots: New Look

I have been loving a simple pieces outfit looks currently with thick heeled black booties. For this look, I went for a bohemian style floral crop top with slim straps from partnered with black high waist skinny jeans from . Since the event would be running late into the night I added on my faded, ragged but fitting blue denim jacket (I’M OBSESSED) which I wore off shoulder until it was too cold outside.

My hair was in twist outs which makes me look so street. To accessorize, I wore my gold choker and brass cuff  finished the look with green lipstick to just throw off everything lol.

If you read this blog post up to here, you are the greatest

Stay stylish,

Kadenyi.

The post What I Wore: Barak Jacuzzi ‘MoLife’ Documentary Screening Party. appeared first on Kadenyi.

The Kilimani Street Festival is an event that has been taking place regularly since 2014 and is hosted by Kilimani Project Foundation,a community and residents association that seeks out to build a community of choice in Kilimani. My good friend and photographer Vince Oyolo has been trying to get me to attend the event for months now and I am glad I finally did as it was lots of fun.

The fun-filled day offers a perfect platform for family and friends to mingle and sample some of the products, including kids entertainment, sales from organic farmers market, fashion item vendors, food vendors and soul soothing entertainment flowing through the day on display.

The Kilimani Street Festival initially targeted the  cultural diverse population of people who live and work or play in Kilimani but It has over the time grown to an event that attracts an attendance of hundreds of Nairobi residents and their friends of all walks of life.

HOW TO ACCESS THE EVENT:

 Private/Personal vehicles:

• Use Dennis Pritt Road and Park at St. Georges Primary School

Public Means of Transport:

• From Westlands: Alight at Dennis Pritt Road and walk down the road. The venue is 2mins from Road House on your right.
• From Town: Take a No. 46 and alight at Quality. Walk down the road toward Lenana Road. The venue is a few minutes from Spinal Injury Hospital.

When there, I noticed that Fashion also took center stage of the festival, with different designers showcasing their creativity on interiors and fabrics. I loved this as I got to snap some fabulous Pictures for Nairobi street style.

If its something you have not attended before I would highly recommend it. Prepare yourself  and come and enjoy a carnival affair with fan, food, drinks, kids corner and wide variety of vendors dealing with arts and fashion. The aim of this event is encourage familiarization with your neighbor for a safer and friendlier community feeling. I mean, How cool is that?

If you live in Kilimani, then you should come experience a special day of shopping and having a good time with your friends on your street. How fun!

On To The Outfit

Boho chic is one of my all-time favorite style vibes, but it can be tricky to pull off. Fret not as I have a simple, easy cheat sheet to help you nail bohemian style in a flash. Maxi dresses represent an easiness  and femininity often seen in boho chic style. The color white and the maxi dress goes so well as you often create a breezy and refreshing outfit.

One advantage of wearing a maxi dress is that you really don’t have to do much to style it. It literally covers your entire body. So it comes down to the style and cutting of the dress, and the accessories and shoes that affects whether the outfit looks good. In this case, I simply wore the beautiful dress with black sock boots and it looked amazing.

If you are one of those who like more creativity or you simply like more layers, this one may be for you. Simply drape a denim jacket over your shoulders for a super chic look. Turn this outfit into a boho outfit by wearing a boho style statement necklace and some chic African rings. Whether your prefer distressed leather or cloth, fringe or suede, a tiny cross-body or an oversized hobo bag, having a reliable and fantastic purse is key to tying your outfit all together.

Outfit Details

Jacket: Thrifted

Dress: Forever 21

Rings: Maasai Market

Bag: Old

Boots: H&M

If it were a sunny day, Oversized sunglasses would have been the choice as  they transcended boho girls and became a huge fashion trend just a few years ago. Although they aren’t as popular in the mainstream anymore, they’re still a bohemian staple. I tend to break, scratch, and lose sunglasses, so I typically just get inexpensive pairs from Kadenyi Pop Up.

If you have reach this point of the blog post, I really want to encourage you to take just one little step further. That is to go to your wardrobe or your local stores to try out a bohemian maxi dress, got to the Kilimani Street festival and get out of your comfort zone.

Stay Stylish,

Kadenyi.

The post What I wore: Kilimani Street Festival appeared first on Kadenyi.

Details

Photography; Jenkins Kuyoh

Make Up Artist; Cynthia Wairimu

Hair: Sistar Kenya Marley Braids

While researching, many articles suggested using baby oil to create a “wet look” eye shadow, We of course tried it out with Cynthia with foundation underneath but the oil mixed with the foundation making my face muddy. So I had to clean my face and douse myself in oil as she sprinkled a beautiful Morphe shade on my eyelids. Just as I opened my eyes we found it collected in my eye lid crease almost immediately. Not getting defeated, we had to do this whole shoot with my eyes shut which was so nerve wrecking because I really didn’t know how the final look would come out.

Quick Tip

If you want to re purpose your broken shadow, mix a little shadow with Vaseline for a pigmented gloss. When I tried this, the sheen ended up being somewhere between a lip gloss and a lipstick. I’d recommend this if you want to create a custom color or wear a crazy hue (like blue, green, or black) for the night — it beats purchasing an entire tube of lipstick you’ll only wear a few times. You can also use clear lip balm if you don’t have Vaseline, but Vaseline is definitely the cheapest route.

I love how the final look came out, going with my theme of hairstyles inspired from the past, my curly fringe partnered with the glossy body complemented the entire concept. Who knew glossy eyelids would become decidedly more ethereal than editorial?

What do you think of the final look? Have you tried glossy lids before? Lemme me know in the comment section below.

Stay stylish,

Kadenyi.

The post Crushed Eyeshadow appeared first on Kadenyi.

Photography:Jenkins Kuyoh

Make Up Artist:Cynthia Wairimu

Hair: Front Darling Kenya Elegant Braid Back SISTAR Kenya Marley Braids

Done At: Posh Palace Kenya by Doreen The Stylist

Nails: Soch Solo Of Posh Palace Kenya

In the past few years, we’ve all got used to using more complexion make-up, as they call it in the biz. Sculpting and highlighting products have become a new normal for many women’s cosmetics bags. But it is quite an effort. There are signs, though, that the grip of this fashion for a multitoned chiselled face is loosening.

In ancient Egypt, ground red ochre (a natural pigment) was mixed with fat to create a red tint that people would smear on their lips and their cheeks that popped against the harsh black kohl around their eyes. At the recent catwalk collections, many of the make-up artists used just a pop of pink on the cheeks. Chanel and Simone Rocha sent models out looking flushed.

Trendy makeup companies aimed at young women are trying to make it seem super cool again too, launching liquid and stick blushes that people are currently obsessing over. We were totally inspired by Rihannas look in the Met gala when creating this look but added our own touch to it as its a slightly over the top blush look.

So, here’s to blush, not only for its ability to survive a gruesome and lengthy history and come out as one of the most effective makeup items of our time, but also for constantly adapting to trends and the women who love to wear it.

Stay Stylish,

Kadenyi

The post Born To Blush appeared first on Kadenyi.

Photography:Jenkins Kuyoh

Make Up Artist:Cynthia Wairimu

Hair: Front Darling Kenya Elegant Braid Back SISTAR Kenya Marley Braids

Done At: Posh Palace Kenya by Doreen The Stylist

Nails: Soch SoloOfPosh Palace Kenya

In the 50’s Sky high ponies were the go to hairstyle as well as cornrows for Africans. They were the trademark of the powerful women who wore them, And because beauty, just like fashion exists in a cyclical universe. Classical hairstyles constantly re-emerge from the past in a 2.0 form. Accent braids are the perfect addition to any ‘do’ when you need to spice up a plain pony, loose waves, or bone-straight locks.

I have partnered with Posh Palace Kenya to start showcasing to you some fun and different hairstyles with a major historical inspired revival this season. It’s the perfect time to have fun with a sexy summer look during this cold weather. Be sure to keep checking out my website and soon you’ll be rocking way back when styles like a true style icon!

For this beauty look we had to try out the newly raved make up look that is Faux Freckles. There are some beauty traits that not everyone is blessed with — and one of these traits come in the form of tons of teeny, tiny freckles that grace your face. The good news is that even if you don’t naturally sport freckles on your bare skin, they’re super easy to replicate with a little makeup.

Freckles instantly make the complexion look fresh, as if you have no foundation on. It’s a beauty trick I use more often than you may think. If your foundation or powder looks cake-y, pop a few freckles on top. It will fool everyone into thinking you just have gorgeous, perfect skin, and that you’re not wearing much makeup.

Stay Stylish,

Kadenyi

The post Hairstyles Inspired From the Past appeared first on Kadenyi.

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Background Music Credit:
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The post My Sunglasses Lookbook appeared first on Kadenyi.

Photography: Jenkins Kuyoh

Getting to the Nairobi Terminus is a trip on its own, you know Mombasa road and its traffic not to mention it’s past the Syokimau Railway station. The tip alone to the station Cost us Kshs1,100 on Taxify from town.

Who would have thought that Mombasa is now so much closer for us folks living upcountry. I was really excited because I had never used the train before. I was traveling with my girl Susan Kaittany for her travel show Platinum Lifestyle that I cannot wait to showcase to you guys. We were traveling with her whole crew for a week in Mombasa and boy didn’t I have a great time.

Getting to the station

The Nairobi terminus has lots of options to get you from the station to your destination:

• The Commuter train, which costs 50/- per person
• Taxi services, from your regular cab guy, to Little, Uber, Mondo Ride, Taxify and others being available
• Public transport buses outside the station

We got to the station at around 11 ‘O’ clock and was met with numerous security checks; I counted at least 3 checks in both the Nairobi and Mombasa Terminus:

• One, outside in the open area, with sniffer dogs and the army guards.
• Second one just after your ticket is first validated by security guards, with a scanner (separating the men from the women)
• Third one just as you get through the main terminal building’s doors, and is not gender specific. Your ticket is validated again.

You are not allowed to carry any contraband material: drugs, weapons etc. No alcohol is allowed on board too. Camera equipment is treated suspiciously, so either have it packed well, and/or have the right permits especially if you intend to film or photograph on board or around the station (It costs about Kes. 50000)

Ticketing

Tickets are mostly sold in advance, so you have time to plan ahead for your travel. You can buy the tickets between 7:00 am and 4:00 pm daily. You can also get a refund on any tickets/extras before the train departs, with a 20% cancellation fee charged. No refunds after the train departs.

Ticket Price: Kes. 700 – economy, Kes. 3,000 – First class

Children:

• Under 3 years – Free
• 3 – 11 years – Half price
• 11 and above – Full price

Do not forget to carry your train ticket and ID/passport. You will need them at various stages, such as when boarding, and (the ticket) when leaving the station after arrival. It may be quite costly if you lose it.

We boarded First Class Coach Number 8 at 1:30 am. The ambience of the coach was beautiful and well thought out as one feels at home immediately with soothing music all through the journey. The aisle was wide and the leg-room comparable to Business Class and it was way more than I anticipated. I have to commend the architect and interior designers as they did a wonderful job.

Food

The train ride was so smooth guys I couldn’t believe I had not tried it earlier.  One hour into the trip we were hungry and decided to check out the menu. Food and drink orders take time. We however were on First class so we got that platinum experience. The rest of the crew was in coach ad they ordered while in Nairobi and got the food and drinks past Mtito Andei.

The snacks at the station are quite affordable and tasty with the price range not exceeding KSH 2000 of which I thought was fair considering you will be served fresh tasty food and lets not forget the experience. I ordered some mashed potatoes with meat stew and suma wiki while Susan ordered the chicken sandwich with some wine but we kept interchanging and eating ea others food as everything was delicious

It takes 4 hours from Nairobi to Mombasa, and 4 hours 16 minutes back, and this could be a long time to stay seated. Here’s some tips and tricks:

• Carry some food/snacks. Food/drinks service doesn’t begin until you’re well under 2 hours into the trip. Considering the time you get to the station, a lot of passengers haven’t had their breakfast. So either take time to have a good solid breakfast at home, or carry some snacks. Water, tea, juice etc are allowed in regular portions, as well as snacks. Baby food is allowed. You can also wait till the catering team starts service, but their prices are slightly expensive.

• Seating is comfortable, but if you can secure a window seat, do so. Most of the spaces seat 6 pax on one side of the train, and 4 on the other, so you can plan your group travel to sit together comfortably. If you have kids, it would be prudent to secure their own seats too, to avoid them disturbing other passengers, or tiring you. No standing is allowed.

• Luggage on board is allowed, but up to certain limits. The limit is currently at 30kg maximum. 1.6 metres length, height, breadth maximum. This translates to two large suitcases. You have to be smart though and think through how you’re going to lug them across the station grounds, since there are no trolleys/support staff. You also have to get them to fit in the overhead racks or below the seats.

The trip to Mombasa is smooth filled with various amazing nature and views to check out. Me and Susan chatted and viewed all this during the trip.

Arrival

Just like Nairobi, it’s so far away from the CBD…..however, here there is no public transport. We arrived late into the night so luckily for us ATS travels had already arranged a driver to pick us up. Keep your ticket with you through the trip, as you will require it to scan yourself through the exit gates.

The Mombasa terminus also has some options:

• Public transport (large matatus), at 100/- per person, into Mombasa CBD. These are many, and are the best and fastest option.
• Uber is only an option if you have pre-arranged the travel. Most drivers will not come to the terminus unless pre-booked.

Overall the SGR is something you should try if you are tired of buses or the quick plane trip. I thoroughly enjoyed myself and cant wait to use the SGR again. Have you tried the SGR? Feel free to share your experience in the comment section too….

AW! I also have a vlog on this trip, Have you checked it out? Link is

Stay Stylish,

Kadenyi

The post My SGR Experience appeared first on Kadenyi.

I had the hardest time finding this green crop top that would do this skirt justice. When you are working with a gorgeous statement piece like this wrap skirt, you cannot just throw on a cotton-knit sleeveless shirt and call it a day.

While it took a little bit of digging,  but when I finally got this top I knew it was a winner! I love how clean cut it looks yet the banded lace lining and the low cutout add just enough edge. Although feeling a bit bashful with an exposed midsection, I had to get over it.

You can still look elegant in a crop top – it just has to be paired with the right bottom. As long as your bellybutton is concealed, and your lower half is suited up in a lady-like garment, you have nothing to worry about. In this case, the ultra feminine silhouette of the skirt and the charming African choker balanced out the fit of the top.

Anyway, I accessorized the look with maasai strappy lace-up . I polished off the ensemble with my very own sunglasses.

Outfit Details

Photography: Jenkins Kuyoh

Make Up Artist: Willy Collins

Hair: Posh Palace Kenya By  Dorothy Ohada

Sunglasses, Crop Top and Skirt: Kadenyi Pop Up

Choker and Shoes: Masai Market

What’s great about the crop-and-skirt collaboration is that it really can work for anyone. With no fit or form specifications to follow, you can simply mix and match your style patterns until you find the perfect pair!

Stay Stylish,

Kadenyi.

The post Crop Top + Wrap Skirt Combo appeared first on Kadenyi.