At BOGUK, every product we create carries a story, a challenge, and a moment of cultural introspection. The Naipolo Capsule was no different, it was a deep dive into artisanal craftsmanship, reinterpreted for the modern wardrobe.
The Inspiration
The NaiPolo capsule draws from The Polos sport, the legacy of Tusker Malt, and the craftsmanship of BOGUK. We wanted to capture that spirit in the collection that felt intentional, grounded, and quietly confident. The goal was to craft pieces that honored tradition while fitting seamlessly into todays modern lifestyle. Think minimal but impactful, with hand-finished details that celebrate craftsmanship over mass production.
The Challenge
Creating Naipolo wasn’t just about designing clothes; it was about discipline. We set out to push the limits of local craftsmanship while keeping everything within a made-to-order framework. The challenge? Time. We wanted a quick turnaround without compromising on quality, all while staying true to BOGUK’s vision of refined, culturally resonant design. We used elements of the Polo sport, with hand cut horse patterned Kimonos, Hand painted suits, the BOGUK hats and the new prints: Kibera Prints, Ndovu Prints and Polo Prints, which were hand sketched by the designer, Bevern Oguk.
The Timeline
From concept to execution, Naipolo was a whirlwind. We mapped out a two-week schedule; one for design and prototyping, and another for fine-tuning and production. Every step, from fabric selection to detailing, was intentional, ensuring that each piece carried the weight of its inspiration.
The Activity
The capsule rolled out in phases. First, we teased the concept through subtle storytelling on social media, cryptic captions, work-in-progress glimpses, and behind-the-scenes footage. Then came the drop: a series of limited-edition pieces available for pre-order, showcased at The Soldier’s Salute Polo Tournament in Nairobi, Kenya. We had an immersion where attendees were treated to live silk scarf making on site, cementing our shift to the made-to-order model. Each item was made on demand, reinforcing our commitment to sustainability and exclusivity.
The Response
The reaction? A mix of curiosity, appreciation, and most importantly demand. The capsule resonated with those who value slow fashion, cultural storytelling, and meticulous craftsmanship. Orders came in from both longtime supporters and new enthusiasts eager to own a piece of wearable culture. The feedback reinforced what we already knew: people are ready for fashion that means something, and cementing our position as a thought leader in Kenyan Fashion.
Naipolo was more than a capsule; it was a moment. A reminder that great design isn’t rushed, that culture can be reimagined, and that style is best when it carries a story.
Would we do it again? Absolutely. But the next one? You’ll have to wait and see.
Read more features of the Naipolo here; Kenyan Vibe, Khusoko, Mpasho News, The Standard, TNX Africa.