CHAI Apparel, a creative streetwear brand founded in 2019, is one with exciting and easy-to-wear designs. With a penchant for abstract art and striking modern elements that allude to Ugandan culture, it’s no surprise that the fashion brand continues to set trends.
We spoke with Kulabako Musoke Edward, also known as Kamara The Addict, the creative director of the fashion brand. He shared about his brand and its plans; take a read.
When was Chai Apparel established?
The journey started in Feb 2019 when I had this crazy idea I wanted to execute. I talked to two people before creating it. They all laughed because it really sounded weird. I decided to get serious and take it on as a business on 3rd March 2019
What was the inspiration for starting Chai Apparel?
My love for streetwear started way back in 2012 when I used to move with my homie Yung Mulo, who around that time had some of the biggest chart-topping songs in the country. Coming from Zana, all the youths from the ends used to relate to his lyrics.
My idea around that time was to print t-shirts with phrases that my homies in Zana can relate to, but unfortunately, that didn’t happen around that time. Fast forward to 2019; I wanted to create something in the same direction, something unique and something Ugandans worldwide can wear and feel proud for putting on something from home.
How do you describe your creation?
Chai apparel is a streetwear brand aiming at spreading the Ugandan culture to the world. CHAI TO THE WORLD
Why the name Chai?
Chai is just like Chai Mukalu. The name comes from my love for Chai Mukalu. The first jumper we created had Chai Mukalu Addict, and that’s how we started the journey. My friends encouraged me to make more, and this later spread like wildfire. We received love from the different parts of the country and later the world.
Many witty tees come from the brand. Could you take us through the creative process?
Some ideas come from our side, and some come from clients. Different people reach out through our social media platforms with their ideas or phrases. We then send to the graphics person who comes up with two or three designs which are sent back to the client to choose one they prefer. We then proceed to print.
Are there any other services that Chai offers?
We also do branding for companies, organizations and brands
How can one find you?
We are located in Ntinda, Hatimax studio opposite Stanbic bank or you can reach us through our social media pages @chaiapparelug on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook or via the website
What are you looking forward to in the coming years? Projects or new creations to look out for
We have many plans, but first, we are looking at collaborations with some brands in Uganda next year. I know our people will love what’s coming their way. We are looking at expanding and spreading wings to other East African countries. Other plans are too big to be mentioned.
satisfashionug@gmail.com
