Meet Faith Mwende is an entrepreneur by passion, and the co-owner of online fashion boutique
Faith Mwende is an entrepreneur by passion, and the co-owner of online fashion boutique, House of FayRose. She is also the founder of hairline company Imani Hair Extensions and a content creator. She chats with Faith Kyoumukama.
What inspired you to set up the House of FayRose?
I was employed at a corporate firm and it took me quite some time to come to terms with the fact that I needed to be fully focused on entrepreneurship.
The FayRose was birthed right after, and because I love fashion and styling, it was easy bait. That was in end of March this year.
Named after my sister and I, we came up with a plan and decided to venture into the business.
How is it doing so far?
I’d say so far so good. Businesses have their challenges, but I’m glad we did it.
I would always get questions on social media on what to wear or where to get certain pieces of fashion, and now I can be able to provide that solution in a practical manner with an end product.
What are some of the trends at FayRose?
At the moment, we have couture bandage dresses, maxi wide-leg pants, party outfits, a few mini–bags, coordinate pieces to mention but a few.
How would you describe your style?
I’m a minimalist of some sort; maybe morre sophisticated, chic and edgy. I enjoy basking in my feminine energy, so any excuse to dress up and I’m all in.
What are your top five girl essentials that you would recommend?
A little black dress, seamless underwear, a bra that goes with most outfits, statement sunglasses and denim pants because they are versatile.
Which fashion era did you love?
Fashion in the 20th Century went from strict corseted dresses to the ‘anything goes’, which is the attitude of today. I love it. No restrictions whatsoever.
What’s your latest beauty discovery?
Discovering boob tape was remarkable. Coming from a woman with a big bust, I can now get away with a lot more while exploring fashion.
Natural hair or human hair extensions?
Of course hair extensions—human hair to be specific. I love wearing a nice authentic lace wig or ponytail. It accentuates my whole look giving an elegant finish. It is also a protective style for my natural hair; another reason for setting up Imani Hair Extensions.
What is your biggest wardrobe malfunction?
I once wore a nice floral sundress for a day event and one strap snapped. Let’s just say I had to hold my ‘things’ in my hand. I was fashionably so embarrassed.
Your most surreal fashion experience is?
The Moet and Chandon annual party in 2019 at the Tribe Hotel in Nairobi. I have never been around so many fashionable people before. When Kenyans decide to show up, they do it big time. I loved it!
Your comfortable indoors look…
Shorts, a T-shirt and sponge boob slippers.
Who do you consider great fashion icons?
Kim Kardashian, Joy Kendi and Rihanna.
Should ladies shop for what’s trendy or what works best for them?
I would say what works for them; it’s best to be comfortable in your skin. Remember fashion comes and goes, but style lasts forever.
Is there a fashion item you simply can’t leave the house without?
Yes, my handbag, earrings and sunglasses.
What do you splurge on the most?
To be honest, there is no picking with me. It depends on what I’m loving or needing at any particular time.
Which celebrity wardrobe would you raid if given a chance?
Kim Kardashian for sure! She is a true fashion icon; I would raid her closet in a heartbeat.
