Liya Kebede Grows LemLem

Liya Kebede's first foray into fashion with her line Lemlem (meaning "flourish" or "bloom" in Amharic) is proving to be quite a success. While Liya initially launched Lemlem as a children's line she is expanding the brand to include women's clothing at the behest of her shoppers. The Ethiopian based manufactured line is providing employment to local artisans while turning out beautifully constructed pieces made of sustainable products. Watch Liya and her model friends at her Lemlem photo shoot:


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Liya Kebede: From Supermodel to Designer

LemLem by Liya Kebede

Supermodel Liya Kebede has made the successful leap from supermodel to fashion designer on a mission! Kebede launched a children's clothing line called LemLem (to bloom) in 2007. Every piece is handmade from cotton in her hometown Ethiopia - Kebede made it a focus to provide work for the local women through LemLem.

In March 2009 not only did Liya secure an exclusive catalog deal with J.Crew (see above) but also a partnership for J.Crew to carry LemLem in its CrewCuts store and at jcrew.com. Congrats to Liya! You can also buy LemLem at www.lemlem.com!

Jenna Lyons with Liya at the launch for LemLem at J. Crew