The fashion industry in Kenya has been experiencing tremendous growth in recent years, thanks to the increasing demand for locally-made fashion and the rise of global trends influencing the local market. Aspiring fashion designers are looking for top-notch institutions to hone their skills and gain the knowledge needed to compete in the ever-evolving fashion world. Fortunately, Kenya is home to several fashion design schools that offer industry-relevant education and hands-on experience. These schools aim to nurture creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship in the fashion sector.
If you’re passionate about fashion design and want to enroll in a school that will equip you with the necessary skills and qualifications, here is a list of the best fashion design schools in Kenya.
1. Mcensal School of Fashion Design
Launched in 2009, Mcensal School of Fashion Design is recognized as one of the top fashion design institutions in Kenya. The school offers internationally accredited certification from Edexcel and BTEC, providing students with industry-standard skills. Mcensal’s mission is to cultivate the next generation of innovative designers poised to make an impact in the African fashion scene. The school emphasizes creativity, technical skills, and fashion business knowledge.
- Location: Adalyn Flats, Adjacent to Nairobi Baptist Church, Off Ngong Road, Nairobi.
- Contact: 0715 530 309.
2. Delight School of Fashion & Design
Delight School of Fashion & Design offers a variety of courses, including Artisan, Certificate, and Diploma programs in fashion design, tailoring, and dressmaking. The school is accredited by TVET and NITA, ensuring that its programs meet national education standards. Delight School is known for offering practical and hands-on training that prepares students for immediate employment or entrepreneurship in the fashion industry.
- Location: 1st Floor, Delight Centre, Muindi Mbingu Street, Opposite Jevanjee Gardens, Nairobi.
- Contact: 0722 533 771.
3. The B.A. Fashion Institute
The B.A. Fashion Institute takes a modern approach to fashion education, blending industry-based learning with online courses. The institution employs lecturers who have received training from leading fashion schools in Kenya and abroad. The B.A. Institute is ideal for students seeking flexibility in their learning process and focuses on preparing them to work in both local and international fashion markets.
- Location: Nairobi Art Centre, Kauria Close, Lavington, Nairobi.
- Contact: 0721 365 517.
4. Buruburu Institute of Fine Arts
Buruburu Institute of Fine Arts is a vocational training center that caters to young artists and designers. The institute offers Certificate and Diploma courses in fashion design, graphic design, interior design, and fine arts. Students benefit from practical and theoretical training, making it an excellent choice for those looking to explore multiple artistic disciplines alongside fashion.
- Location: Along Mumias South Road, Buruburu, Nairobi.
- Contact: 0721 837 917.
5. Zion College of Fashion & Textile Design
Zion College offers comprehensive programs in fashion and textile design, ranging from foundation courses to advanced diplomas. The school focuses on fashion design, garment construction, and textile technology, making it an excellent choice for students looking to dive deep into both the creative and technical aspects of fashion design.
- Location: House No 3, Prime Office Suites, Kindaruma Road, Kilimani, Nairobi.
- Contacts: 0722 523 798, 0795 889 802.
6. MEFA Institute of Design
MEFA Institute is an internationally owned, fully accredited higher education institution specializing in fashion design. The institute prides itself on producing world-class fashion professionals equipped with both creative and business skills. MEFA’s curriculum includes design principles, textile science, garment production, and fashion marketing.
- Location: 245 Murigi Road, Nairobi.
- Contacts: 0741 777 848, 0735 633 102.
7. Vera Beauty & Fashion College
Vera Beauty & Fashion College is a reputable institution approved by TVETA, offering a range of fashion design and creative arts courses. Students learn key skills such as illustration, pattern making, fabric selection, cutting, and stitching. With multiple campuses across the country, Vera College ensures students receive a comprehensive education that includes both theoretical and practical fashion design training.
- Locations: Nairobi, Eldoret, Meru, Thika, Mombasa.
- Contacts: 0704 577 577, 0725 923 550.
8. Intrinsic Falconry Fashions
Intrinsic Falconry Fashions offers affordable and quality fashion design courses that cover all facets of the industry. The institute is ideal for students seeking to start from the basics and gradually advance to more complex fashion techniques. Their programs focus on garment construction, design principles, and entrepreneurship, making it an all-rounded fashion school.
- Location: Kenya Cinema Plaza, Nairobi.
- Contact: 0722 473 032.
9. East Africa Institute of Certified Studies
East Africa Institute of Certified Studies is known for providing affordable fashion design courses that equip students with the skills to analyze fashion trends, sketch designs, and choose fabrics and styles that fit contemporary tastes. The institute has campuses in major cities like Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu, making it accessible to students across Kenya.
- Locations: Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu.
- Contacts: 0722 857 450, 0723 891 404.
10. Evelyne College of Design
Established in 1976, Evelyne College of Design is one of Kenya’s oldest and most respected fashion schools. The college offers courses in fashion design, interior design, and fine arts, with an emphasis on creativity and practical skills. Evelyne College has produced some of the country’s top fashion designers and continues to provide students with industry-relevant education.
- Contact: 020 434 8839.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Fashion Design School
When selecting a fashion design school, it’s important to consider the following factors:
- Accreditation: Ensure the school is accredited by relevant bodies like TVET or NITA, as this guarantees that the courses meet national and international education standards.
- Course Content: Look for schools that offer a well-rounded curriculum covering all aspects of fashion design, including garment construction, fashion illustration, fabric selection, and pattern making.
- Practical Training: Fashion is a hands-on profession, so choose a school that provides ample opportunities for practical learning, including workshops, internships, and fashion shows.
- Facilities: The availability of up-to-date equipment, such as sewing machines, fabric laboratories, and design studios, is crucial for practical learning.
- Industry Connections: Schools that have strong industry links can offer internship placements, job opportunities, and exposure to real-world fashion design.
Kenya’s fashion industry is growing rapidly, and there is an increasing demand for skilled fashion designers who can blend creativity with technical expertise. Whether you want to start your own fashion line, work for established brands, or explore textile design, these top fashion design schools in Kenya will provide you with the skills, knowledge, and exposure needed to thrive in the industry. Choose the school that aligns with your career goals and start your journey to becoming a fashion trendsetter in Kenya and beyond.
