The Project

Set in the Indian ocean, Zuri Zanzibar Resort is situated on the north-west beach of Unguja, one of the idyllic islands that make up the Zanzibar archipelago.  The new resort’s name befits its location: Zuri means beautiful in Swahili, the language of the islands.

The resort has been created as a micro-universe with the white beach, spice gardens and luxury accommodation working in harmony. Ecology and sustainability are pivotal to the resort’s philosophy; locally sourced materials, energy-saving initiatives and community projects have been an important factor in its development. The resort’s owners were looking for a uniform provider that had the same commitment to sustainability.

Fashionizer’s Solution

Fashionizer was invited to deliver the uniforms for the opening of the Zuri resort, and manage the programme going forward. This involved interpreting and developing the inspiration of Czech fashion designer Denisa Nova, a compatriot of the hotel owners, as well as sourcing the fabrics and manufacturing the garments. The programme, Fashionizer’s first new opening project in Africa, included reception, F&B, entertainment and wellness areas.

The brief was to combine luxury with a calm, relaxed image. At the same time, the garments needed to be practical. Comfort is a prime consideration in the tropical climate, and Fashionizer sourced a range of cotton-rich fabrics that could be draped.  In keeping with the environment-friendly ethos, one of the fabrics we used is a mixture of cotton and a fibre created from recycled plastic bottles.

The colour palette reflects the location and the identity of the Spice Islands: hues of sand, rich brown, turquoise and aqua blue, complemented by fresh white, reminiscent of the sands of the beach.