Mounir Sakho Talks Lumère and Capturing the Essence of His West African Heritage
At just 23, Mounir Sakho is already making waves in the fashion world with his emerging brand, Lumère. The self-taught designer has crafted a collection that is drawing attention for its unique perspective, blending West African influences with a modern, New York streetwear edge. With a growing fanbase and his first full collection now live, Sakho’s story is one of passion, heritage, and a drive to push the boundaries of fashion.
The Birth of Lumère: A Legacy of Light
Sakho’s journey began long before he launched Lumère in 2019. As a child, he was captivated by his mother’s African textile books, especially one fabric called “Lumière.” He recalls asking his mother what it meant, and her response—her eyes sparkling with admiration—left a lasting impression. “She said, ‘That’s perfect for you,’” Sakho remembers. In that moment, the name Lumère was born.
Sakho’s first name translates to “light,” and in French, lumière means “light” as well. For Sakho, the connection was undeniable. Naming his brand after the word that sparked his journey felt like a tribute to his mother, the woman who gave him life and the foundation for his dreams. “Lumère is a way of honoring my mother and her influence in my life,” Sakho explains. “It’s also a reminder of where I come from and the light that guides me.”
A Fusion of Cultures: From Guinea to New York
Born to Guinean parents and raised as a first-generation American, Sakho’s design sensibility is shaped by the intersection of two worlds. Living in New York’s Upper East Side, he often encounters a vibrant mix of streetwear and traditional African aesthetics—a blend that resonates deeply with him. “I wanted to spotlight my heritage in a fresh way and tell a new story,” he says.
Sakho’s creative process is informed by his roots in Guinea, but also by his experiences growing up in the diverse cultural landscape of New York. His designs are a reflection of the many influences that have shaped him: a love for anime, skate culture, art, and, of course, fashion. “Lumère is an amalgamation of all the things that have made me who I am—a skater, nerd, artist, anime lover, proud New Yorker,” he says. For Sakho, Lumère is a space where all these seemingly disparate elements can coexist in harmony, celebrating individuality while honoring heritage.
Unlike many designers, Sakho didn’t attend fashion school. Instead, he turned to YouTube, immersing himself in the wealth of tutorials and resources available online. “Fashion is in my DNA,” he says with confidence, explaining that his great-grandmother was a respected textile designer in Guinea. Despite not having formal training, Sakho’s love for design runs deep—woven into his family’s legacy.
Through a combination of self-study and hands-on experimentation, Sakho learned the ropes of design. “I had to figure things out as I went,” he says. But his ability to merge classic and contemporary elements has become one of the defining features of Lumère. His collections are timeless, yet forward-thinking, and always infused with a personal touch. Signature palm red accents and the "Ètoile motif" are emblematic of his approach—creating modern garments with restorative qualities that speak to both the past and the future.
Sakho’s designs are not just about clothing; they’re about creating a space where people can evolve and express themselves freely. He keeps his teenage self in mind when designing, allowing his work to be a journey of exploration and growth. “I want Lumère to be a place where people can experiment, express themselves, and find a safe space to evolve,” he shares.
At its core, Lumère is about building a community—one that’s inclusive, culturally rich, and celebrates diversity. Sakho envisions his brand as a platform for creativity, where innovation is nurtured, and the voices of underrepresented communities are amplified. It’s a brand that doesn’t just follow trends but sets them, paving the way for a new era of fashion that values authenticity and individuality over fleeting fads.
Looking ahead, Sakho has big dreams for Lumère. He wants the brand to be globally recognized for its innovation and cultural depth. “I want Lumère to be seen alongside other designers who are pushing boundaries and introducing new perspectives,” he says. For Sakho, success isn’t about conforming to the traditional fashion industry. It’s about creating clothing that tells a compelling story—wearable art that transcends trends and speaks to the soul.
As Lumère continues to grow, Mounir Sakho is proving that a unique voice and a deep connection to one’s heritage can set a brand apart in a saturated industry. With his distinct vision and commitment to crafting timeless, meaningful designs, Sakho is poised to make a lasting impact on the global fashion stage.
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