womanthismonth.com | MAY 2025 FASHION 72 Threads of Identity Mankemin Diomandé-Hübler, founder of Makenzy Creations, weaves culture, creativity and craftsmanship into every handmade crochet and macramé design – celebrating individuality through wearable art rooted in heritage and heart. What sets Ms. Diomandé-Hübler’s work apart is not only its visual beauty, but its soul. “My handmade items are deeply inspired by the richness of cultural diversity,” she says. “They blend modern design with timeless elegance.” Born into creativity, she recalls an early fascination with fashion: “Growing up, my mother, a teacher by profession, also crafted our dresses for celebrations. I fondly remember assisting her with cutting and sewing.” Even as a student, she was already sketching her own designs, drawn to the artistry of garment-making. Her move into professional design took shape after embracing a nomadic lifestyle, which offered both inspiration and freedom. “I’ve chosen to establish my own fashion brand. This allows me the freedom to work and travel everywhere,” she explains. At the heart of Makenzy Creations lies a commitment to detail and craftsmanship. Each piece begins with a concept, often sparked by global trends or cultural influences. Ms. Diomandé-Hübler envisions silhouettes that not only flatter the wearer but also prioritise comfort and movement. She favours natural, ecoconscious fibres like cotton, and enjoys experimenting with materials such as denim and linen. Cowrie shells frequently find their way into her pieces, adding an organic touch. The design process is painstaking and personal. “I enjoy the interplay of simple and complicated stitches to craft delicate and unique pieces,” she notes. While it can be a nerve-wracking experience, watching the final form emerge brings immense satisfaction. The handmade aspect of the brand is its identity. “Unlike mass-produced items, my handcrafted garments possess subtle variations – a slightly uneven stitch, a row that isn’t perfectly straight. These ‘imperfections’ are not flaws but rather the marks of a design untouched by mainstream manufacturing,” she says. “There are no machines capable of precisely crocheting a complete dress. My hands are always integral to bringing my visions to life.” Even when a knitting machine is used for basic elements, the finishing touches are always done by hand. Looking ahead, Ms. Diomandé-Hübler has set her sights on international recognition. “My aspiration is to expand my brand’s reach by participating in international fashion shows and collaborating with other designers,” she says. Self-taught and ever-evolving, she continues to refine her skills to elevate her signature style. Her creations are available on platforms such as Etsy and Instagram, with plans to join Symobh – a space dedicated to local artisans. Makenzy Creations also features at pop-up markets in Bahrain, including events by Market Street Bahrain and The Secret Garden. For now, every stitch is a step towards celebrating personal expression, culture and creativity – one handmade masterpiece at a time. @makenzycreations
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy Mjk0MTkxMQ==