The trousers you’re holding were made from kikoy, a fabric with a long and layered history along the East African coast.

Centuries ago, Arab merchants travelled to the shores of what is now Kenya, bringing with them goods, textiles, and garments—including the sarong. Local communities adopted and adapted this simple wrap, creating what is now known as the kikoy: a fabric that evolved into a key part of Swahili culture.

Over time, the kikoy became more than just a garment. Weaving techniques were passed down through generations. Patterns became more intricate. Colours carried meaning. What began as a practical piece became something cultural—shaped by African, Arab, and Persian influences.

Unlike most contemporary fabrics, kikoy is woven, not dyed. Its colours are created on the loom, not added later. Each stripe is placed intentionally, thread by thread. The process takes time—but that’s what gives the fabric its integrity, softness, and character.

The cotton used in our kikoy is grown across Lamu, Makueni, Kitui, and Kisumu. These regions have long histories of small-scale farming, where cotton is harvested by hand in limited quantities. From there, it’s spun and woven in Nairobi by artisans who understand the material—its weight, its movement, and how it’s meant to feel when worn.

At Amaari, we’ve taken this heritage fabric and reworked it for modern wardrobes. Our silhouettes are simple, but considered. The story sits in the fabric—and the fabric speaks for itself.