From nursing to needlework, how fashion designer Beza Yohannes blends tradition, sustainability, and style to empower artisans and celebrate Ethiopian culture in her work. 

Founded in 2022, ”Beza Clothing” is more than just a fashion brand; it’s a celebration of Ethiopia’s rich cultural heritage infused with modern design. 

At the heart of this visionary label is founder Beza Yohannes, whose passion for fashion and dedication to traditional craftsmanship has created a brand that honours history while embracing sustainability and style.

“Clothing is more than just bits of fabric,” says Beza. “I have believed from a young age that it’s at the heartbeat of our culture, a living legacy woven by the hands of different artists. 

“I remember cutting and rearranging my mother’s dresses; fashion was my first language.”

“When I touch those fabrics, I feel the lives of our ancestors whispering through the threads. It’s humbling and inspiring all at once.”

“And here at “Beza Clothing”, every stitch tells a story that connects past, present, and future and is handcrafted through Ethiopian experts.” 

The brand’s mission is clear: to provide high-quality, unique clothing and accessories that blend vibrant Ethiopian patterns with contemporary silhouettes. 

She says: “Beza Clothing was born from a desire to showcase the unparalleled artistry of Ethiopian artisans, which from day one I believed was such a beautiful thing to explore.” 

“We use exclusively hand-woven Ethiopian fabrics, crafted using traditional techniques passed down through generations. Each piece tells a story of not just of beauty, but of cultural identity, resilience, and pride.”

From chic everyday wear to elegant special occasion attire, Beza Clothing is a testament to wearable art that respects both tradition and innovation.
Beza Yohannes’s journey to becoming a fashion entrepreneur is as inspiring as her designs. 

Born in Jimma, Ethiopia, she grew up nurturing a creative spirit, often rearranging her mother’s dresses. 

Yet, tradition steered her towards a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, a field where she contributed meaningfully at St. Peter’s Hospital. 

She says: “I started as a nurse, but my heart always pulled me toward fashion. Combining my heritage with the contemporary design was my way of honouring where I come from while embracing where we’re going.”

So, despite her professional success, Beza’s passion for fashion remained undimmed. 

“I couldn’t ignore my calling anymore,” she says. 

Enrolling in a fashion design course, she began crafting pieces for friends and family, whose enthusiastic response propelled her to launch Beza Clothing. 

Her brand quickly gained local acclaim for its unique fusion of Ethiopian tradition and modern style.

Beza Clothing employs a skilled team of five who are dedicated to ethical and sustainable fashion. 

The brand’s materials are deeply tied to Ethiopia’s heritage, including Ethiopian cotton, which is renowned for its softness and durability, hand-spun threads, and natural dyes derived from plants and minerals.

She says: “Our commitment to sustainability means we prioritize eco-friendly practices at every step.

“The traditional hand-weaving, dyeing, and embroidery techniques we use not only preserve craftsmanship but also reduce environmental impact.”

The brand incorporates traditional embellishments such as beads, shells, and metalwork, enriching each garment with cultural symbolism and artisanal detail. 

She said: “Our goal is to share the beauty of Ethiopian craftsmanship with the world, empowering local artisans and telling a story of culture, resilience, and creativity through every garment.”

Men’s and women’s collections alike reflect a harmonious blend of function, beauty, and history.

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Some of Beza’s designs:

Beyond just simple aesthetics, Beza Clothing embraces social responsibility. 

By supporting local artisans and sourcing materials ethically, the brand contributes to the economic empowerment of craft communities and cultural preservation.

“Supporting local artisans means more than fair wages,” Beza shares. “It’s about dignity, pride, and the joy of seeing our culture celebrated globally.”
“We’re committed to uplifting the artisans whose skills breathe life into our collections,” Beza says. 

“Their work is the soul of Beza Clothing, and preserving these traditions means preserving our collective identity.”

With strong foundations in Addis Ababa’s Bole Medhaniyalem district, Beza Clothing envisions an exciting future. 

Plans include expanding their product range to include more garments, accessories, and possibly home goods, all of which would reflect Ethiopian artistry.

The brand is also exploring international markets, aiming to share Ethiopia’s vibrant culture worldwide through collaborations and ethical fashion platforms. 

“We want to build partnerships with designers and brands who share our values, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary trends,” Beza explains.

Increasing global visibility through social media and fashion events is key to the brand’s growth strategy. 

“Our goal is to bring Ethiopian fashion’s rich heritage to the global stage, inspiring appreciation and respect for its beauty and meaning.”

“This isn’t just fashion to me,” Beza reflects. “It’s my heritage, my family, my voice. Every garment carries a story, and sharing that story with the world is my greatest pride.”

Beza Clothing isn’t just fashion; it’s a living tribute to Ethiopia’s timeless traditions, crafted with heart and designed for the world.