Deborah Agutu is a passionate fashion designer blending creativity with purpose. She creates unique, trend-forward designs that empower self-expression. Driven by innovation, she’s building a brand that inspires confidence and celebrates individuality
Generation Shift
Category: Apparel (Unisex Look)
“Generation Shift” is a premium unisex streetwear look inspired by the resilience, courage, and digital activism of Kenya’s Generation Z. This garment serves as a tactile tribute to a generation defined by collective action, adaptability, and an unyielding demand for national progress and accountability.The design features a modular, convertible cowhide leather jacket paired with oversized, wide-leg trousers. Embodying tactical functionality, the jacket utilizes a heavy-duty industrial zipper tracking system hidden beneath protective shoulder panels, seamlessly transforming from a long-sleeved outerwear piece into a short-sleeved utility shirt or a minimalist sleeveless vest. Mirroring this adaptability, the accompanying green trousers convert into loose-fitting "jorts" via concealed mid-thigh zipper tracks, while integrated side cargo gussets provide an expandable silhouette.Grounded firmly in the ethos of slow fashion, "Generation Shift" addresses environmental circularity by encouraging reduced consumer consumption through multi-functional longevity. Satisfying the strict RLSD ecological mandates, the look is engineered entirely from sustainable materials. The structure of the multi-way jacket is crafted from robust, rich espresso-brown cowhide leather—a natural, biodegradable by-product sourced ethically to prevent landfill waste. This is contrasted against the fluid weight of the forest-green trousers, constructed from 100% organic cotton canvas to eliminate synthetic microfibers."Generation Shift" honors a youth movement that continues to reshape contemporary Kenyan identity. Like the resilient individuals who inspired its creation, this ensemble is technically designed to adapt, endure, and maintain profound relevance over time
Crowned Grace is a couture statement rooted in African identity, honoring the traditions of handmade craftsmanship while embracing sustainable modern fashion. The design exudes regality, drawing from the image of African queens who led with both fierceness and dignity.
The corset bodice symbolizes protection and strength. Made from genuine cowhide leather, it is molded to support and enhance the natural form. Its deep sweetheart neckline is a nod to vulnerability and beauty, balanced by a striking leather choker that rests at the base of the throat.
The skirt’s clean fit is softened with petal motifs at the front—symbolic of life, fertility, and organic elegance. These hand-cut leather petals mimic nature’s rhythm, while a detachable raffia tail at the back mirrors a bridal train, adding volume and motion without excessive weight.
Feather detailing on the gloves introduces softness and fluidity, contrasting with the structure of the leather, while coconut shell accents give an earthy, tactile richness that highlights Africa’s natural bounty.
Crowned Grace advocates for sustainability and slow fashion by embracing biodegradable, ethically sourced materials like cowhide leather, raffia, and coconut shell. It rejects mass production in favor of handcrafting, which values time, care, and cultural heritage. Each component is selected and constructed to ensure longevity, reduce waste, and celebrate conscious consumption.
This piece is more than fashion—it’s a message. A story of resilience, feminine strength, and a new wave of African design that honors tradition while building a sustainable future.
In association with
Working with our partners at Arts Thread to develop lifelong learning and career opportunities for students of fashion and design. Our partnership provides the opportunity to compete on a world stage, participate in industry led workshops, set up an outstanding portfolio and gain access to the resources that will kickstart careers in fashion and design.
