José Hendo: Pioneering Eco-Sustainable Fashion with the African Barkcloth

In the dynamic world of fashion, where trends often overshadow tradition, José Hendo stands out as a beacon of sustainability and cultural preservation. Born in Uganda and now based in London, Hendo has seamlessly blended her rich heritage with contemporary design, championing eco-friendly practices and materials.

Hendo’s passion for fashion was ignited during her upbringing in Uganda, where creativity was a household staple. Surrounded by art and music, she developed an early appreciation for design, often crafting outfits for her dolls from leftover fabric scraps. This early exposure to upcycling and resourcefulness laid the foundation for her future endeavors in sustainable fashion.

After establishing herself in the fashion industry, Hendo became increasingly aware of the environmental impacts of fast fashion. This realization prompted her to pivot towards eco-sustainable design, adopting the mantra: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle (R3). She emphasizes that “reduce” underpins everything, aiming to minimize waste, labor, and energy in her creations. Her commitment to sustainability is evident in her choice of materials and production processes, which prioritize environmental consciousness.

Reviving Barkcloth: A Cultural Renaissance

Central to Hendo’s designs is the use of Barkcloth, an ancient non-woven fabric made from the bark of the Mutuba tree (Ficus natalensis). In 2005 Barkcloth was proclaimed a ‘Masterpiece of Intangible Cultural Heritage’ and in 2008 it was eventually inscribed on the Representative list. Barkcloth, made from the bark of the Mutuba Tree is one of the oldest cloths made by man. It is biodegradable, organic, and produced without chemicals. The sustainable harvesting process allows the tree to regenerate its bark annually for up to sixty years, making it an exemplary eco-friendly textile.

Read more on the History and Harvesting of Barkcloth here:

Hendo’s dedication to barkcloth extends beyond her designs. In 2014, she founded the initiative Bark To The Roots (B2TR), aiming to increase the global usage of barkcloth, connect with Ugandan artisans preserving this tradition, and encourage the planting of Mutuba trees. Through B2TR, she ensures that the communities producing barkcloth benefit directly, fostering a sustainable and ethical supply chain.

Innovative Collections and Global Recognition

Hendo’s collections are a harmonious blend of her African roots and British influences. Each piece tells a story, advocating for sustainability and challenging conventional fashion norms. Her designs have graced international runways, including Eco Fashion Week Australia and London Fashion Week, where her avant-garde use of barkcloth garnered significant attention. Beyond the catwalk, her work has been showcased in esteemed institutions such as the Uganda Museum, the World Culture Museum in Stockholm, Sweden, Kunstgewerbemuseum, Berlin, the African Textiles Museum in Atlanta, georgia and the National Museum of Scotland amongst others, highlighting her role in bringing Ugandan cultural heritage to a global audience.

A Vision for the Future

For over two decades, Hendo has championed barkcloth as a sustainable alternative in the fashion industry. She embraces African innovation, pushing the boundaries of how barkcloth can be used – from creating ready to wear designs and runway-worthy garments to avant-garde wall hangings. Each piece  carries a story, advocating for sustainability and sparking conversations about responsible fashion choices. Hendo’s vision transcends fashion; she aims to inspire a broader movement towards sustainability, urging both consumers and designers to consider the environmental and cultural impacts of their choices.

In a world increasingly conscious of environmental footprints, José Hendo exemplifies how fashion can be a conduit for change, blending tradition with innovation to create a more sustainable future.

For a deeper insight into José Hendo’s journey and her work with barkcloth, watch the video below where she talks through the design process of her latest collection at the National Museum of Scotland: