Welcome to BijouCREATES, where design meets tradition, and creativity intertwines with cultural heritage. I’m Bijou, the founder and visionary behind this unique design company.
About BijouCREATES:
BijouCREATES is not just a design company; it’s a creative journey that draws inspiration from West African traditional craft and design techniques, seamlessly blending them with the aesthetic of 21st-century British lifestyle. The result is a contemporary design hybrid that finds expression in various forms, including fashion, architectural design, independent research, and beyond.
Inspiration:
My creative journey began with a vision to craft functional yet explorative pieces, using afro print fabrics as intricate design details. These typologies, though rich in cultural essence, were not readily available on the mass market as ready-made items. Recognizing the need for self-expression, especially among young professionals within the diaspora, I set out to create sleek, clean, and modern pieces that resonate with their style identity.
Design:
BijouCREATES focuses on sourcing fabrics and materials with West African influences, innovative properties, or modern design features. The goal is to craft unique pieces that serve as a fusion of British and West African styling, re-engaging with traditional crafts and techniques in a contemporary setting.
Storytelling:
Through collaborative efforts with individuals, artisans, and groups, I embark on design research and development, weaving together the tales of the West African diaspora. This collaborative storytelling approach enriches the content and pieces inspired by a profound cultural narrative.
Manufacture:
Ethics and meticulous craftsmanship define every piece created at BijouCREATES. Whether made by my hands or an independent team of artisans and tailors in the UK and Sierra Leone, each creation is a testament to my passion for design opportunities and investment back into West Africa.
Join me on this journey where each piece tells a story, and tradition meets contemporary elegance. Welcome to BijouCREATES, where design is more than aesthetics; it’s a celebration of culture and creativity.
