Draft:Manyatta Belts
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Fashion, Accessories |
| Founded | 2014 |
| Founder | Stuart Squire |
| Products | Hand-beaded leather belts |
| Website | manyatta.co.uk |
Manyatta Belts is a British-Kenyan brand renowned for its handcrafted beaded leather belts, intricately designed by Maasai artisans in Kenya. Established in 2014, the company bridges traditional Maasai craftsmanship with modern fashion, offering bespoke belts that symbolize affiliations to clubs, schools, regiments, and associations. Each belt not only serves as a fashion statement but also supports sustainable employment for Maasai women, preserving a rich cultural heritage.
History and Origins
[edit]Founding and Inspiration
[edit]Manyatta was founded in 2014 by Stuart Squire, who previously lived and worked in Kenya. Inspired by the vibrant beadwork of the Maasai people, Squire commissioned a beaded belt in the colors of his club, the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC). The unique accessory garnered attention, leading to further commissions from various clubs and associations. Recognizing the potential to create employment opportunities in Maasailand, Squire established Manyatta, specializing in beaded belts that reflect organizational affiliations. The company's motto, *"The old club tie is not a tie at all; it’s a Manyatta belt,"* encapsulates this vision.
Growth and Collaborations
[edit]Since its inception, Manyatta has become an official supplier to numerous associations, including prestigious sports and private members' clubs. The brand has expanded its reach beyond the UK, with increasing commissions from overseas clubs, particularly in the United States. By combining Maasai and British traditions, Manyatta ensures continuous employment for skilled yet economically disadvantaged communities while producing belts admired by customers worldwide.
Craftsmanship and Design
[edit]Materials and Production
[edit]Each Manyatta belt is a testament to meticulous craftsmanship. The belts are hand-beaded by Maasai women, a tradition perfected over centuries. The leather is sourced from Kenyan cows, ensuring durability and authenticity. Brass buckles are recycled and crafted locally in Kenya. A single belt can contain over 6,000 beads, requiring approximately 2–3 days to complete.
Cultural Significance
[edit]Beadwork holds profound cultural significance for the Maasai people. Each color used in the beadwork symbolizes different aspects of Maasai life:
- Red: Bravery and unity
- Yellow/Orange: Hospitality
- White: Peace, purity, and health
- Blue: Energy and the sky
- Green: Health and land
- Black: The people and their struggles
These colors are not merely decorative but convey messages and stories, making each belt a wearable piece of art.
Design Variations
[edit]Manyatta offers a diverse range of belt designs, catering to various affiliations and preferences:
- Traditional Belts: Reflecting classic Maasai patterns and colors.
- Regimental Belts: Customized for military units, such as the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards.
- School and University Belts: Designed in the colors of institutions like Eton College and Bristol University.
- Club Belts: Commissioned by sports and private clubs, including the Hawks' Club.
Each belt is made to measure and presented in an attractive box, emphasizing the brand's commitment to quality and personalization.
Social Impact and Ethical Practices
[edit]Empowering Maasai Women
[edit]Manyatta's production process is deeply rooted in community engagement. Beading is a highly social activity among Maasai women, often conducted in homesteads and backyards rather than factories. This approach not only preserves traditional practices but also fosters a sense of community and shared purpose.
The income generated from belt production significantly contributes to the livelihoods of Maasai women, often used to pay for school and university fees. This economic empowerment is especially crucial for widowed or single women, providing them with the means to support themselves and their families.
Sustainability and Ethical Sourcing
[edit]Manyatta emphasizes sustainability in its operations. The leather used is tanned locally in Kenya, preserving traditional methods and supporting the local economy. Brass buckles are crafted from recycled materials, highlighting the brand's commitment to environmentally conscious production practices.
Branding and Availability
[edit]Logo and Branding
[edit]Manyatta's branding reflects its fusion of Kenyan authenticity and British elegance. The logo and designs are inspired by Maasai beadwork patterns, symbolizing the brand's roots and commitment to traditional craftsmanship. The belts themselves serve as a modern alternative to the traditional club tie, allowing wearers to display their affiliations in a contemporary and stylish manner.
Product Range and Availability
[edit]Manyatta offers a wide array of belts, each tailored to specific affiliations or preferences. The belts are available in various sizes, ensuring a perfect fit for every customer. Prices typically start at £85, reflecting the quality and craftsmanship involved. Customers can explore and purchase belts through Manyatta's official website, as well as through affiliated clubs and retailers.
Conclusion
[edit]Manyatta Belts stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. By bringing Maasai beadwork to the global fashion stage, the brand not only offers unique and personalized accessories but also empowers communities and preserves cultural heritage.
References
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External links
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