Peacock Mural
THE INSPIRATION
The Genteel brand was conceived in a bed of feathers and born into a world of colour. Proud, loud, glorious and beautiful, our brand is personified by the majestic peacock and all its captivating flamboyance. Each of its variegated colours adds to the vivid tapestry of our vision.
But the story of Genteel, is not just a story of colour, it is also a story of empowerment. Our aim is to enable men to re-identify with their rich cultural heritage by subtly infusing bold prints into the clothes we make. The purpose of this peacock-print is to tell a story of male-identity as has been passed down from generation to generation through our forefathers.
Having spent time to study the indelible influences that British assimilation has had on Kenyan identity, we felt the need to express the unique balance that seems to have been subtly hidden at the nexus of this two separate cultures during colonisation. By drawing our inspiration from our forefathers’ flamboyance and British conservatism we aim to showcase a fresh view of how African clothing should be presented.
Our legacy will be to leave an indelible mark of individualism and unapologetic male-expression through colour, print, culture and fashion.
THE PEACOCK
Originally an import from India, the peacock’s fame goes way back to the times of Solomon. Viewed as a prestigious bird, primarily not just from its gait but from its exuberant colours. The feathers are aligned in a manner that increases & maximises the impact the sun’s rays has on them. Depending on your angle of view you can at a moment, view at least 3 colours. A phenomena referred to as iridescence.
A natural parallel to life, where men have to be many things, to many people at one time while still maintaining their core luster.
SIGNIFICANCE OF THE COLOURS
Royal Purple
Purple has been termed & used as the colour of Kings for centuries. Genteel is no exception to this rule. We aim to give a taste of Kinglike-luxury
Orange, Blue & Green
Blue (Navy & Sky):Generally Blue is a colour more acceptable to males for the simple reason that it is associated with knowledge, clarity & stability. These two colours combined represent good health and integrity. Powerful qualities necessary for dominance. Blue represents knowledge.
Green: Africa contains an abundance of resources which we often take for granted though we ought to appreciate and utilise. Green represents wealth.
Orange: Orange is a combination of the energy of life and the happiness that comes with putting that energy to good use. The brilliant African sun helps make this possible as is often captured by the Swahili proverb “Siku Njema huonekana Asubuhi”. Orange represents energy & life.
Sophisticated Grey
Grey (Black & White):Grey, a combination of black & white represents both historical context, power & elegance.
UPGRADE YOUR SCREEN'S WALLPAPER
Download the unique “Genteel Peacock Print” on your phone, tablet or desktop. Take a screen shot and tag genteel on our socials Twitter: @genteel_ke Instagram: @genteel_ke for a chance to get a shout out.
