Brunah Ogutu: Multifaceted Kenyan Fashion Designer to Watch in 2024

As the fashion industry in East Africa continues to flourish, a new generation of talented designers is emerging, each bringing unique styles and captivating collections to the forefront. Among these rising stars is Brunah Ogutu, a multifaceted Kenyan fashion designer and model who is rapidly gaining recognition for her innovative approach to design and her commitment to sustainable fashion practices.

Brunah's journey in the world of fashion began with a solid educational foundation. She graduated from Kenyatta University with a diploma in visual and performance art, equipping her with the creative skills and artistic vision that would later become hallmarks of her design aesthetic.

[PHOTO: Brunah Ogutu on runway during the Miss world Kenya 2022]

While Brunah had been working as a model for various local fashion designers, it wasn't until 2022 that she truly stepped into the spotlight as a designer in her own right. That year, she was crowned Miss World Kenya People's Choice 2022, an accolade that brought her talents to the attention of fashion enthusiasts and media personalities across the country.

[PHOTO: Brunah Ogutu CEO  and Creative Designer at  the Flamingo Hand Made- FHM254]

What set Brunah apart during the Miss World Kenya 2022 competition was not just her modeling prowess, but her exceptional skill as a designer. As one Nairobi-based media personality noted, "The people's choice winner Miss Brunah was part of the contestants but as a fashion designer, she went ahead and created collections of different outfits some of the contestants wore during their solo performances. Everyone was amazed by her collections and her talents, which is why she was voted. We loved her collections as an upcoming fashion designer."

[PHOTO: Brunah Ogutu crowned Miss World Kenya People's Choice 2022- Collection made by the Flamingo Hand Made- FHM254]

This unexpected showcase of her design abilities marked a turning point in Brunah's career, propelling her from model to designer and setting the stage for her future success.

In 2020, two years before her Miss World Kenya triumph, Brunah had already taken the first steps towards establishing herself as a designer by founding her brand, Flamingo Hand Made, or FHM254. The brand's name itself is a nod to among Kenya's beautiful birds [Flamingo] and the country's international dialing code, reflecting Brunah's pride in her Kenyan heritage and her desire to create fashion with a distinctly local flavor.

[PHOTO: Collection made by the Flamingo Hand Made- FHM254]

The FHM254 quickly distinguished itself through its diverse range of offerings. As Brunah explained in an interview with RCFS's MEDIA in Nairobi, "We do ladies' gowns, wedding dresses, men's suits, uniforms. Each piece is uniquely designed and tailor-made." This versatility allows Brunah to cater to a wide range of clients and occasions, from everyday wear to special events.

[PHOTO: Collection made by the Flamingo Hand Made- FHM254]

What truly sets the FHM254 apart in the competitive world of Kenyan fashion is its unwavering commitment to uniqueness. Brunah's personal style philosophy is deeply ingrained in every piece she creates. "Personally, I always love something that is very classy and unique, I love being unique," she says. This dedication to originality has not gone unnoticed. "I know sometimes I walk around with a new collection and some fashion lovers wonder about my collections because of the unique touches and techniques I use," Brunah adds with pride.

[PHOTO: Collection made by the Flamingo Hand Made- FHM254]

But uniqueness is only one part of the equation. Equally important to Brunah and the FHM254 is a commitment to sustainable fashion practices. In an industry often criticized for its environmental impact, Brunah is determined to make a positive difference. "I like to be part of the sustainability fashion movement because it helps me and my brand take action related to contributing to protecting our environment," she explains.

This commitment to sustainability goes beyond mere lip service. Brunah has incorporated eco-friendly practices into every aspect of her design process. "It also helps us to reduce the usage and over-usage of fabrics," she says. "We get to work very nicely with the fabrics that we already have to ensure that we maintain very little usage of fabrics."

[PHOTO: Collection made by the Flamingo Hand Made- FHM254]

By focusing on the efficient use of materials and minimizing waste, Brunah is not only reducing her brand's environmental footprint but also setting an example for other designers in the region. This forward thinking approach to fashion is likely to become increasingly important as consumers become more environmentally conscious, potentially giving the FHM254 a competitive edge in the years to come.

What makes Brunah truly stand out in the Kenyan fashion scene is her multifaceted career. In addition to her work as a designer and model, she has also served as a fashion tutor at Delight Fashion School in Nairobi. This role allows her to share her knowledge and passion with the next generation of designers, potentially shaping the future of the Kenyan fashion industry.

[PHOTO: Collection made by the Flamingo Hand Made- FHM254]

Brunah's modeling career continues to thrive alongside her design work. She participates in commercials runways shows and high-fashion photoshoots, as well as beauty pageants. This varied experience in different aspects of the fashion industry gives her a unique perspective that informs her design work.

Despite her busy schedule, Brunah maintains a well-rounded approach to life. "I have a passion for life and a love for cooking, art, fashion, swimming, teamwork, and listening to music," she says. This diversity of interests undoubtedly contributes to the richness and depth of her designs.

[PHOTO: Collection made by the Flamingo Hand Made- FHM254]

As we look towards 2024 in Kenya's fashion industry, Brunah Ogutu stands out as a Kenyan fashion designer to watch. Her unique blend of talents; designer, model, and tutor combined with her commitment to sustainability and her distinctive design aesthetic, positions her as a potentially transformative figure in East African fashion.

“Brunah's journey from art student to model to award-winning in Miss World Kenya as a contestant as well as a fashion designer, and sustainable fashion advocate is a sign of her versatility, creativity, and determination. Nairobi-based media personality added” As FHM254 continues to grow and evolve, I see Miss Brunah's influence will extend beyond Kenya's borders, potentially making her a significant player in the broader African fashion scene”

 A Short Video of Brunah & FHM254's Introduction 

[PHOTO: Collection made by the Flamingo Hand Made- FHM254]

[PHOTO: Collection made by the Flamingo Hand Made- FHM254]

[PHOTO: Collection made by the Flamingo Hand Made- FHM254]

[PHOTO: Collection made by the Flamingo Hand Made- FHM254]

[PHOTO: Collection made by the Flamingo Hand Made- FHM254]

[PHOTO: Collection made by the Flamingo Hand Made- FHM254]

[PHOTO: Collection made by the Flamingo Hand Made- FHM254]

[PHOTO: Collection made by the Flamingo Hand Made- FHM254]

THE RCFS's MEDIA