From Ghana to LA: Kwame Adusei’s Fashion Odyssey

After a decade as a fashion designer in Ghana, Kwame Adusei sought a new challenge, leading him to uproot his life and venture to New York City. However, the abrupt transition from a tropical climate to the chilly streets of New York in January proved to be an unexpected hurdle for Adusei. Prompted by the need for warmer surroundings, he redirected his path to Los Angeles, where he recently inaugurated a storefront on Doheny Drive in West Hollywood.

Since relocating to LA two years ago, Adusei has garnered attention for his collection of garments that explore themes of sexuality and androgyny, attracting celebrities like Beyoncé, Kylie Jenner, Lori Harvey, Kali Uchis, Ciara, Reneé Rapp, and others.

Embracing his African heritage, Adusei was determined to infuse his brand with cultural significance upon his arrival in LA. He decided to christen his new label with his own name, a decision that evoked feelings of vulnerability and responsibility. Drawing from his experiences in Ghana, where he honed his craft and became fluent in French through collaboration with French ateliers, Adusei emphasizes meticulous construction and tailoring as the foundation of his brand.

While androgyny remains a core element of his brand identity, Adusei is committed to tailoring fabrics in a way that accentuates the feminine form, rather than simply adapting traditional menswear for women. He describes his aesthetic as a fusion of feminine allure with masculine undertones, achieved through careful attention to fabric selection and cutting techniques.

Inspired by the use of Kente cloth in traditional West African wedding ceremonies, where each individual designs their attire using the same fabric, Adusei finds parallels in his approach to fashion. He aims to offer versatility and individuality while maintaining cultural integrity.

Despite the subtle nature of his Ghanaian influences in his designs, Adusei’s background remains intrinsic to his fashion philosophy. He seeks to marry functionality with aesthetics, drawing from his roots to create garments that not only look exquisite but also feel comfortable and empowering to wear.

In addition to his creative endeavors, Adusei is also passionate about giving back to his community. He envisions establishing programs to mentor young designers in Ghana, providing them with opportunities to hone their skills and pursue their dreams in the fashion industry. Through his brand, Adusei hopes to not only make a mark in the world of fashion but also inspire others to embrace their heritage and pursue their passions with determination and resilience.