A guide to Kenyan Kikoy
What Is Kikoy In Kenya?
Known in Kenya as 'Kikoi', it is a traditional East African woven fabric, primarily from the Swahili speaking coastline. It is traditionally worn by men as a waist-wrap, similar to a sarong. The kikoy is now widely used as beachwear, casual clothing, or home decor.
The key features of Kikoy fabric are:
- Made of 100% cotton theefore soft, lightweight, and breathable.
- Traditional design of bright and bold stripes in vibrant colors.
- Slightly textured weave, softer than similarly used fabric.
How To Wear A Kikoy
The simplest way to wear a Kikoy is to wrap the kikoy around your waist or body, and tie the ends securely. For a more secure fit, you can use a knot or tuck the ends. You can tie it at the hip or front, depending on your preference. Finally, you can adjust the length to create a maxi skirt or a shorter dress.
What Is The Meaning Of Kikoy
Kikoy is a Swahili word meaning waist-wrap. This distinctive waist wrap fabric has been traditionally worn by men in coastal areas of kenya.
Where Is Kikoy From?
The Kikoy is deeply rooted in the culture and traditions of the East African coast, particularly Kenya and Tanzania. It is synonymous with the Swahili communities.
What Is Kikoi Used For?
Kikoy fabric material is expertly crafted into contemporary clothing and accessories, including our stylish and comfortableKikoy trousers, as well as scarves, shawls, beach cover-ups, and head wraps.
Where Is Kikoy Worn?
The kikoy waist-wrap is traditionally worn by men of Swahili culture along East African coast especially in Kenya and Tanzania. Its wide spread use is best visible on the Swahili islands including Mombasa, Lamu, Kilwa and Zanzibar.
What Is The Origin Of Kikoy?
As a garment that is predominantly weaved in the cultural fabric of Swahili coast, the Kikoy emerged from contact between these communities taking part in historical trading networks. Heavily influenced by climate, traditions and trading wealth.
Is It Kikoi Or Kikoy?
In East Africa its called a Kikoi or Gikoi depending on your location. 'Kikoy' is a later iteration of the original name.
The Story Behind Loll-Loungewear
Loll Loungewear—where comfort meets culture. Our name, Loll, means to sit, lie, or stand in a relaxed way, and that's exactly what our loungewear is designed for. We are a contemporary loungewear brand with deep roots in East Africa, celebrating the region's rich heritage through our distinctive patterns, bold colours, and culturally significant fabrics.