Edna Bissoon's Page

HEMMA LAUNCHES LUXURY WOMENSWEAR COLLECTION USING
AUTHENTIC FABRIC OF AFRICAN ROYALTY
Young Designers Blend Modern Sophistication with Cultural Heritage
(New York City, NY – 2010) – On the heels of a life-altering trip to Ghana, West Africa, where they fell in love with African
fashion and textiles, Cindy Gaston and Edna Bissoon are pleased to launch HEMMA, a collection of luxury womenswear
that incorporates the same, traditional techniques that have been used to weave fabrics for African nobility for centuries.
HEMMA affords each client an opportunity to dress with undeniable contemporary style while indulging in the textures
and richness of royalty. The name HEMMA derives from the word “ohemma,” meaning queen in the Twi language of
Ghana.
Hemma is currently featured in the April issue of Essence and will be highlighted in the May issue of Lucky! Hemma is
currently sold at Albertine, Darling and Montgomery.
About the Hemma Collection
“Hemma garments are inspired by a melding of Western and West African designs, using a luxe fabric that encourages
women to feel confident about their bodies. The premiere collection consists of very classic styles that can be easily
incorporated into your wardrobe and worn as separates,” explains Cindy Gaston. “Our initial offering includes two-piece
suits, day dresses, corsets, and cocktail suiting. We draw our inspiration from many places, with a particular admiration
for labels such as Diane Von Furstenberg and Chanel. Like these amazing collections, Hemma will be known for always
making a powerful statement and creating timeless garments.”
The inspiration for Hemma
In the spring of 2007, partners Cindy Gaston and Edna Bissoon studied abroad in Ghana, West Africa. While Cindy,
pursued a career in law, and Edna, medicine, they also independently designed. The pair was inspired by African
fashion and textiles, in particular intricately hand-woven Kente. Drawing from its rich history, they began incorporating
Kente into their designs. At the same time, they were dedicated to volunteering as teachers at La Yahoushua, a local
middle school. Edna Bissoon expounds on their African experience. “The people of Ghana were more welcoming than
we could have expected. Their accepting nature and generosity allowed us to gain an intimate look into this rich history
and culture, which has provided us with boundless inspiration.” She adds, “The culture and locals prescribe that you
live life completely awake to the beauty and opportunity surrounding you—Hemma emerged from this awakening and
strives to spread this message to each client.”
Philanthropic efforts continue
As they bring Hemma to the world, Cindy Gaston and Edna Bissoon also nurture their passion for education. 5% of
Hemma sales will be donated to La Yahoushua middle school in Ghana, the very place where the designers built lasting
relationships with students, and were inspired to create the Hemma collection.
About Kente
The origin of Kente cloth has a long history in Ghana dating back to the 17th century during Chief Akenten’s reign.
At that time, the caravan trade routes of the Sahara were flourishing with the exchange of goods including dyed silks
from the East. Impressed by the textile, he moved to develop the Kente band weaving system for the royal class.
Overtime, the technique of weaving Kente has become extremely specialized, so much so that each color and
pattern has its own meaning.
All of the Kente used by Hemma is authentically created with the same techniques established centuries ago,
including the weaving of the patterns still done by eye on handmade wooden looms. The fabric is so intricate that it
takes approximately 1-2 months to weave 3 yards, enough for a size zero suit in our collection.
Traditionally, the intricately woven Kente was the designated attire for the heads of state and their families but
occasionally served as gifts for foreign rulers. Kente was previously only worn to special ceremonies and events and is
still worn by royalty today. Hemma strives to bring Kente to the public and make all of our clients feel just as luxurious.