US-based Ugandan Designer Joe Malaika Named Boston’s Best Clothing Designer 2022

"You could never accuse Joe Malaika of being dull"

“I can’t keep calm,” Joe Malaika posted. The US-based Ugandan designer has been named ‘ Boston’s Best Clothing 2022’ by Boston Magazine. “You could never accuse Joe Malaika of being dull. Showcasing bold prints, sequins, and cool asymmetrical cuts, the Ugandan-born designer’s pieces are some of the most vibrant (and sassy) ensembles you’ll find in the city,” the magazine shares in a statement.

Joe Malaika is a Ugandan fashion designer based in the US. In 2016, he was recognized by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for using fashion to support the Jimmy Fund and Dana Farber Cancer Research. He has showcased his designs in the US, Dubai (Arab Fashion Week) London and Paris (Paris Fashion Week). Despite the exposure, Malaika reveals that it is not always easy to compete with big names.

He specializes in making outfits from mostly prints (patterns) and colours for both men and women. He has dressed celebrities like Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine), TV personality Douglas Lwanga, singer A Pass, Judith Heard (model), among others.

He buys fabrics in Manhattan, New York City, does the sketching and stitching from the United States before finally bringing them here in Uganda for sale.

There are purple brocade suits for guys, floral-patterned sheaths for gals, and a whole lot of personality in all of it.”- says Boston magazine

Here is a look at the designer’s most recent pieces: