Lemlem

Under the Radar

Trendiness score

51 of 100

Popularity score

54 of 100

0

Brand fans

16

Product saves

Ethiopia

https://www.lemlem.com

Style keywords

Artisanal

Sustainable

Vibrant

Bohemian

Timeless

About the brand

Lemlem is a pioneering fashion brand founded in 2007 by Ethiopian supermodel and activist Liya Kebede. The name "lemlem" means "to bloom" or "flourish" in Amharic, perfectly capturing the brand's mission to revitalize traditional Ethiopian weaving techniques while creating modern, contemporary designs. Born from Kebede's desire to preserve her cultural heritage and support local artisans who were losing work to fast fashion, Lemlem represents a bridge between ancient craftsmanship and global fashion markets. As the first international fashion brand made entirely in Africa, Lemlem has grown from employing 30 artisans to over 250, dramatically improving their lives and wages. The brand produces handwoven clothing, swimwear, and accessories using organic cotton and traditional weaving methods in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Morocco. With collections sold in 150 retailers worldwide, Lemlem has become a symbol of sustainable fashion that proves ethical practices and beautiful design can coexist, while part of its proceeds support the Lemlem Foundation's work in maternal health and female empowerment.

Ethiopia

https://www.lemlem.com

Instagram

140k followersOpen in app

What people are saying

Good On You

Part of its final production stage is certified by Business Social Compliance Initiative Code of Conduct - BSCI. It traces most of its supply chain. It partners with women artisans or women-owned enterprises.

Jun, 2025

Who What Wear

A shirtdress that feels fashion-forward.

Jul, 2024

Sustainable Review

They have taken steps to incorporate eco-friendly materials into their products, including the use of recycled materials. By doing so, they contribute to reducing waste and the demand for new resources.

Feb, 2024

Sustainable Review

Another significant aspect of Lemlem's sustainability practices is their commitment to making products by hand. By employing artisans to craft their items, they reduce their climate impact.

Feb, 2024

Sustainable Review

In terms of labour conditions, Lemlem's rating is 'good', reflecting their commitment to partnering with independent artisans in Africa. By collaborating with these artisans, they contribute to improving social conditions and supporting local economies.

Feb, 2024

Harper's Bazaar

lemlem is my first destination on the hunt for a fresh swimsuit cover-up. The breathable linen can handle a one hundred-degree day under a beach umbrella, while the short, kimono-like sleeves and long tiered skirt are appropriate for a casual sit-down dinner.

Jun, 2023

Good On You

It uses a some lower-impact materials, however it does not publish an aggregate breakdown of materials used. There's no evidence it's taking meaningful action to reduce water use... To minimise waste, it limits its production runs.

Jun, 2025

The Prospect

lemlem's clothing can be pretty expensive, but for a good reason. The clothes need to cost a bit more to compensate for the ethical treatment and fair pay to the workers, the handmade fabrics and the fact that part of all proceeds of each sale goes to the lemlem Foundation.

Jul, 2020

Good On You

Part of its final production stage is certified by Business Social Compliance Initiative Code of Conduct - BSCI. It traces most of its supply chain. It partners with women artisans or women-owned enterprises.

Jun, 2025

Who What Wear

A shirtdress that feels fashion-forward.

Jul, 2024

Sustainable Review

They have taken steps to incorporate eco-friendly materials into their products, including the use of recycled materials. By doing so, they contribute to reducing waste and the demand for new resources.

Feb, 2024

Sustainable Review

Another significant aspect of Lemlem's sustainability practices is their commitment to making products by hand. By employing artisans to craft their items, they reduce their climate impact.

Feb, 2024

Sustainable Review

In terms of labour conditions, Lemlem's rating is 'good', reflecting their commitment to partnering with independent artisans in Africa. By collaborating with these artisans, they contribute to improving social conditions and supporting local economies.

Feb, 2024

Harper's Bazaar

lemlem is my first destination on the hunt for a fresh swimsuit cover-up. The breathable linen can handle a one hundred-degree day under a beach umbrella, while the short, kimono-like sleeves and long tiered skirt are appropriate for a casual sit-down dinner.

Jun, 2023

Good On You

It uses a some lower-impact materials, however it does not publish an aggregate breakdown of materials used. There's no evidence it's taking meaningful action to reduce water use... To minimise waste, it limits its production runs.

Jun, 2025

The Prospect

lemlem's clothing can be pretty expensive, but for a good reason. The clothes need to cost a bit more to compensate for the ethical treatment and fair pay to the workers, the handmade fabrics and the fact that part of all proceeds of each sale goes to the lemlem Foundation.

Jul, 2020