Jose Hendo: A Ugandan Fashion Journey Rooted in Sustainability

Rooted Style

Josephine Kyomuhendo, the creative force behind the label Jose Hendo, isn’t your typical fashion designer. Unlike many who dream of the glitz and glamour of the industry, Jose Hendo’s path began with a growing disillusionment. Having honed her skills in fashion design, a gnawing unease about the environmental impact of the fast-fashion cycle began to take root.

Born in Uganda, Jose Hendo‘s early life likely instilled a deep appreciation for nature and a respect for traditional practices. This upbringing undoubtedly played a role in her growing awareness of the industry’s unsustainable practices. As Jose Hendo herself put it, “The fashion world felt like a giant machine churning out clothes with no regard for the planet. I craved something different, something that celebrated creativity while being mindful of the environment.”

This yearning for a more sustainable approach to fashion sent Jose Hendo on a quest for a new direction. This quest, as fate would have it, led her back to her Ugandan roots and a rediscovery of a forgotten treasure: bark cloth. Bark cloth, traditionally known as “Lubugo” in Uganda, boasts a rich history deeply embedded in Ugandan culture. However, its use had largely been relegated to ceremonial attire, primarily shrouds. Jose Hendo, however, saw the potential for a beautiful and sustainable revolution.

A Childhood Steeped in Creativity:

Jose Hendo’s upbringing in Uganda fostered a love for creativity. Surrounded by a family passionate about art and music, she describes her childhood home as a constant buzz of artistic endeavors. Her sisters delved into fine art and needlework, while Jose Hendo herself gravitated towards the art room, seeking solace in painting.
Interestingly, that environment revealed a hidden seamstress within Jose Hendo. Despite her later aversion to garment construction, she admits to a childhood love of dressing her dolls. From her mother’s leftover fabric scraps, she created elaborate outfits, showcasing a talent for upcycling and a knack for standing out.

From Art Student to Disillusioned Designer:

While a natural inclination towards art seemed evident, Jose Hendo’s journey took an unexpected turn. She pursued studies in fashion design, a decision that might have stemmed from a desire to express her creativity in a different form.
However, her initial excitement with the industry waned. She began to experience a growing disillusionment with the environmental toll of fast fashion. Witnessing the mountains of discarded clothing ending up in landfills sparked a deep concern. “Our fashion industry is stagnant because of this influx of secondhand clothing,” she reflects, “I knew then that I had to do something different. So I did my research and discovered that the alternative is sustainability.”
This yearning for a more sustainable approach to fashion led Jose Hendo on a transformative journey. While visiting her parents in Uganda, she encountered a familiar yet forgotten material: bark cloth. “I came here on holiday to see my parents and while I was here, I was buying presents for my friends in London. I found this bark cloth table mat and I thought, oh my gosh. This is it!”

Embracing Sustainability and Redefining Fashion:

For over two decades, Jose Hendo has championed bark cloth as a sustainable alternative in the fashion industry. She embraces experimentation, pushing the boundaries of how bark cloth can be used. From creating runway-worthy garments to avant-garde wall hangings, each creation carries a story, advocating for sustainability and sparking conversations about responsible fashion choices. “You see three stripes on the shirts and the garments? It is the three stripes which I as an artist use to say reduce, reuse, recycle,” Jose Hendo explains. “If you notice one of the stripes is longer than the others, that is reduce because reduce covers everything to a tee”

Jose Hendo’s designs are more than just garments; they’re a harmonious blend of sustainability and cultural revival. Her journey with bark cloth, a traditional Ugandan fabric steeped in history, transcends mere aesthetics. It’s a revolution woven from a deep respect for the environment and a desire to celebrate her Ugandan heritage.

A Bridge Between Past and Present:

Bark cloth carries a rich legacy. Traditionally used for ceremonial attire, it had become somewhat confined to its historical context. Jose Hendo, however, saw its untapped potential. This age-old fabric, harvested sustainably from the Mutuba tree, offered a unique and eco-friendly alternative to conventional materials that often come at a high environmental cost.

But she wasn’t interested in simply replicating tradition. She envisioned a future where bark cloth could be a versatile and innovative medium for contemporary fashion. Gone were the days of stiff, ceremonial drapes. Through experimentation, she explored the full spectrum of bark cloth’s possibilities. Bold colors and intricate patterns adorned her creations, while some pieces even incorporated graphic elements, showcasing the fabric’s adaptability and its ability to translate into truly modern designs. “My work is very sculptural; I love structure,” she expounds. “And the bark gives me that without having to add too much to it.”

By incorporating bark cloth, she doesn’t just create stunning garments; she makes a powerful statement about cultural pride. She breathes new life into a traditional craft, ensuring its continued relevance in the contemporary world.
This approach fosters a deeper appreciation for Uganda’s artistic legacy and the skilled artisans who have kept the practice of bark cloth making alive for generations. In Jose Hendo’s hands, bark cloth becomes a symbol of cultural revival, finding its place not just in Ugandan ceremonies, but on international runways, captivating audiences with its beauty and unique story.

Jose Hendo’s commitment to bark cloth extends far beyond fashion statements. Her vision encompasses the empowerment of Ugandan communities and the long-term sustainability of this traditional craft. She predominantly works with the Bukomansimbi Organic Tree Farmers Association, in Masaka.
Jose Hendo actively collaborates with Ugandan bark cloth makers, fostering fair-trade practices and ensuring that the skills and knowledge passed down through generations are valued and preserved. This collaboration isn’t merely transactional. Jose Hendo understands the importance of empowering these artisans. By incorporating their expertise into her design process, she creates a space for cultural exchange and mutual respect. The artisans, in turn, gain exposure to new design techniques and a renewed appreciation for their craft.

“Bark 2 The Roots”: Cultivating a Sustainable Ecosystem

Jose Hendo’s dedication to building a sustainable future for bark cloth extends beyond her label. She’s a champion for the entire ecosystem surrounding this unique fabric. Her initiative, “Bark 2 The Roots,” brings together designers, researchers, and artisans to explore innovative ways to utilize bark cloth and ensure its long-term viability.

Jose Hendo isn’t just a designer; she’s a weaver of stories and a champion for sustainability. Through her innovative creations, she weaves together environmental responsibility, cultural pride, and the empowerment of Ugandan communities. Bark cloth, once a relic of the past, is now poised for a vibrant future, thanks to Jose Hendo’s unwavering dedication and artistic vision.