A wonderful design firm in Kenya is brightening the lives of blind and visually impaired shoppers by making fashion more accessible and enjoyable. Hisi Studio, founded by the talented Angela Wanjiku as part of her senior project at the University of Nairobi, has blossomed into a vibrant clothing label that beautifully merges art and functionality.

At Hisi Studio, skilled textile artists create stunning garments adorned with beaded Braille patterns and meaningful phrases. One of the heartfelt messages featured on a shirt reads: “The less you see the eyes, the more you see the heart.” This philosophy captures the essence of the brand, celebrating the unique perspective of each individual.

The studio’s designs are not only visually appealing but also incredibly thoughtful. Each piece features a QR code tag, enabling visually impaired wearers to access clothing descriptions and care instructions through tools like Google Talkback on their mobile devices. This innovation ensures that everyone can enjoy the full experience of their clothing, enhancing independence and confidence.

Among Hisi Studio’s thoughtful creations is a leather belt bag designed specifically to assist those who are blind or visually impaired. This stylish accessory helps reduce theft by fitting snugly against the body, allowing wearers to keep track of their belongings easily.

Angela Wanjiku passionately believes in the power of fashion as a means of communication and self-expression. She shared her vision, stating, “Fashion plays an important role as a communicator of information in social interactions and as an aid in establishing self-identity.” She encourages designers and manufacturers to be mindful of the needs of disabled consumers, promoting inclusivity in the fashion industry.

Julius Mbura, a visually impaired customer, expressed his appreciation for Hisi Studio’s contributions to accessible fashion. He highlighted the joy of knowing what his T-shirts say without needing assistance, proclaiming, “This is one brand that ensures people who are blind and visually impaired appreciate textile and fashion and clothes that represent who they are and what they are.”

Hisi Studio is making a meaningful impact, allowing everyone to embrace their style while fostering a greater understanding of diversity in fashion. Their dedication to inclusivity and creativity is truly inspiring, showing that beautiful clothing can transcend barriers and celebrate the individuality of every wearer.