Lalesso was launched in Cape Town, 2006, by co-creators Olivia Kennaway and Alice Heusser. The brand's ideology is centred on transforming East African heritage into stylish and current contemporary designs. Lalesso has its own manufacturing unit in Ucunda, Kenya, with a strict focus on ethical standards.
All tailors are paid just over 3 times the average wage. All employees are offered loans, sick leave, maternity leave etc. As well as being sociably responsible with the workshop team, lalesso aims to involve the community in as many ways possible. Local Masaii tradesmen make the beaded bracelets used on the swingtags. Unemployed beach boys are commissioned to handcarve the buttons from decaying coconuts.
Lalesso has shown several times at some of the world's most exclusive fashion shows and just recently won the 2009 Fashion Innovation Award from the British Ethical Fashion Forum. The label has been spotted on style icons Sienna Miller, Kate Moss and singer Estelle.
The Kiuno Top features an open, round neck and an even lower, rounded back. Simple and sexy, this top can be worn as both a smart and a more casual piece.
Pair this top with some black pants and heels for a smarter look, or some skinny denim Capri's and white sandals for a classy, casual day look.