Artist Abstract: Anifa Mvuemba
Born: 1991, Nairobi, Kenya
Anifa Mvuemba birthed the brand Hanifa in 2012, after confirming her interest in fashion design Morgan State University. The Hanifa label—Arabic for “true believer”—imbues the spirit of self-determination and sophistication Mvuemba learned at an early age. Born in Nairobi, Kenya, Mvuemba moved to the United States with her parents, who fled the war in their native Congo, when she was four years old. Mvuemnba is entirely self-taught and started her womenswear brand from the ground up in Washington, D.C. when she was in her early twenties. She learned how to sew, how to use Photoshop, how to design a website — everything — all on her own.
Three years after launching the brand, Mvuemba left the saturated world of design due to a lack of support from the industry. Closing the brand, she pivoted to working in retail for stores like Nordstrom, where she was able to further cultivate and refine her customer-centric perspective.
“While working in retail and learning the fashion business, I was compelled to start my brand for what I felt was missing at the time: bold, sophisticated silhouettes for women of all sizes.”
Returning to the design scene a few years later, Hanifa took off with its acclaimed knitwear. In 2019, Mvuemba was selected for Teen Vogue's inaugural 'Generation Next' initiative, a mentorship program helping young designers network with industry insiders.
Beyond elevated designs, Hanifa continuously demonstrates a sophisticated business acumen, merging a mastery of marketing with advanced technological capabilities. In May 2020, Hanifa showcased an avant-garde digital fashion show—her debut runway collection—on Instagram live for their Pink Label Congo line. Deftly navigating the challenges of a global pandemic, the line displayed the spirit and resilience of African culture with sleek pieces tailored to invisible avatars.
Hanifa Bridal launched its debut collection outdoors at the Salamander Resort and Spa, a Black-owned, woman-owned luxury resort in Middleburg, Virginia, during Bridal Fashion Week in October 2023. The collection incorporates illusion mesh in different shades of brown, a nod to Mvuemba’s promise of inclusivity.
Now with a brand ranging from knitwear and fur to shoes, bags, and a bridal collection, Mvuemba continues to conquer the fashion world, leaving an indelible mark of accessible luxury for all.
We can’t wait to see what Anifa conquers next. Follow her journey @anifam, and keep up with the latest drops from Hanifa @hanifaofficial.
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