At Johnstons of Elgin, we are all about nurturing friendships, both old and new. As a family brand, we're proud of the connections we’ve established– from our mill workers to our avid wearers; we’re all in it together. For our first instalment of Friends of Johnstons of Elgin, we sit down for a little tête-à-tête with our Parisian ami, Fashion Journalist, Séga Kanouté (more affectionally known as Abou).
Name: Séga Kanouté, but everybody calls me Séga or Abou
Instagram: abou_sega
Occupation: Fashion Journalist, Creative Director and Co-Founder of Niaramy.
What does friendship mean to you?
Friendship for me is a form of love; it’s very much linked to respect, probity, and loyalty.
What brought you into the world of Fashion Journalism?
I knew that I wanted to work in a sector that would feed my curiosity and enable me to write and execute stories. I actually arrived in journalism somewhat by chance. I have always had an interest in fashion, but I began my career in classic, news-centric journalism. When I decided to redirect my career, I naturally moved towards fashion journalism. Today, I feel lucky to take that a little further by telling stories through different mediums.
In such a vast industry, what sets you apart?
I would say my insatiable curiosity and the want to have discussions with new people. Also, my originality and personality.
What advice would you give to someone just starting out in the industry?
I don't have any particular advice to give other than to respect the people you meet, to be curious, to be attentive, to listen, and to remain humble.
© Photography by Erwan Filidori
What project are you most proud of to date?
It’s difficult to say; my memories are more linked to the people I meet, and to the thought process around a project. I am rarely self-satisfied. Absolutely, what I am most proud of is being able to spend my time as I wish, learn every day, and share good moments with people.
Describe your personal style:
I always wear the same uniform, which consists of a black hat, a black top, a long white shirt, wide black pants, and black shoes. I rotate around that and then change the shape of my figure or the textures of my clothes depending on what I want. The only constants are my glasses and my bracelets, which never take off. My style is a mix between my French and Malian (West African) culture; it’s therefore versatile, minimal, unisex, and always has lots of volume. I wear black often but that doesn't mean I’m not partial to colour.
Who is your style icon?
I don't have a style icon. My icons are my friends and family.
What attracted you to the world of Johnstons of Elgin?
A friend, who was interviewing for a job at Johnstons of Elgin, told me about the brand with so much passion. That’s where the initial attraction came from.
If you had to describe Johnstons of Elgin in three words, what would they be?
Knowledge, heritage and community.
What are you most looking forward to during your visit to the mill?
I want to discover every corner of the factory and understand the mechanics and energy of the brand.
© Photography by Erwan Filidori
What has stood out to you so far?
What particularly stood out (and touched me) is the kindness of everyone here. That and the pride for many in working at Johnstons of Elgin and the apparent expertise in craftsmanship.
What question would you like to ask our next Friends of JoE?
What job would you dream of doing?
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