Aaku – Carbon Black Suede

Aaku – Carbon Black Suede

Aaku takes a compact form in Carbon Black Suede, finished with mixed-colour beadwork engaged entirely by hand.

The beadwork begins on the body and continues onto the strap, bringing colour and texture against the depth of the black suede.

Look closely and you will see the small variations left by the hand part of what gives each Aaku its own character.

At the lower front, small camel-bone details sit quietly against the suede.

Their natural surface brings a subtle contrast to the softness of the leather and the intricacy of the beads.

The piece is finished with front and back zip compartments and a round solid-brass clasp at the centre.

Suede, beads, camel bone and brass come together without competing each material allowed to retain its own character and to age in its own way.

Aaku takes its origin from the traditional Maasai Olbene, reinterpreted by Akire in a smaller, contemporary form as the counterpart to Ashe.

Its name gives the piece perhaps its most personal expression.

Aaku means “I Am” in Maasai.

Small in proportion, but never in presence, a piece shaped around individuality, the hand, and the quiet confidence of simply being.

Aaku – Carbon Black Suede