In a world where fast fashion is increasingly being questioned, Jota-Ken’s mindful approach is a welcomed change to the industry. A combination of no-nonsense, hand-tailored garments – understated detailing and planet-friendly fabrics as well as local manufacturing put this new label firmly on the slow fashion map.

Jota-Kena’s AW17 collection draws inspiration from the Ivy League lifestyle. Characterised by earthy tones of burnt orange and tan, as well as forest green, navy and black – the brand is reminiscent of the ’70s but the lines are softer and the fit more comfortable. There is a tailored shirt with a wide collar embroidered with the Jota-Kena logo and a velvet slip dress to be worn over a polo-neck sweater and paired with ankle boots (one of our favorite winter trends here at Baked Online). Their attention to detail is evident in the embroidered designs, hand-drawn by Keziah, such as the white on white or black on black logos on the shirts.

“We are extremely particular about fit and a lot of attention goes into making each garment the perfect fit.”

The fabrics are imported from Europe and India, and range from cotton sateen to rayon twill, linen and honeycomb Tencel that have been overdyed, treated or crafted to make them ultra wearable.  To provide employment in the greater Cape Town community – all their clothes are made by hand by seamstresses in Cape Town.

As if their beautiful and simple garments aren’t enough, the team also donates 10% of all profit to a non-profit organisation called Hillsong Africa Foundation (HAF). HAF is dedicated to community upliftment through feeding programs, orphan care, women’s shelters, disaster relief, wheelchair distribution, substance abuse programmes, job-skills training centres, prison programmes and education.

You can order online at www.jotakena.com or purchased at their Cape Town studio. They also offer an alteration service, if necessary and delivery is free anywhere in South Africa for orders of R500 or more.