‘Mimi ndio nilianza’ – Bolo Bespoke’s wife Mueni claims ownership of backless dera trend
By Valerian Khakayi, March 2, 2026Josephine Mueni, wife of the renowned fashion designer Austin Bolo of Bolo Bespoke, has boldly claimed she is the originator of the now-viral backless dera trend.
In a video shared on her official social media account, addressing the ongoing discussion about the popular style, Mueni insisted that she was the first to rock the daring design in September 2025, long before the trend gained mainstream attention this year.
She challenged netizens to revisit her past social media posts and look at her photos where she wore the dera
“Nimekuwa nikiona mjadala wa backless dera, watu wanasema ooh watu wa Nairobi, naomba kabisa mkome mimi ndio niliintroduce backless dera,” Mueni claimed.
“I want you to go back to my post, the first person who ever wore a backless dera was me,last year in September na yani mwaka huu ndio mnajua kuna backless dera?“
Additionally, the fashionista said she started the backless dera trend and that she would be the one to finish it.
“Backless dera nimeanza mimi na nitaimaliza mimi,” Mueni noted.
The businesswoman further warned against anyone attempting to take credit for what she considers her original idea, seemingly calling out traders and vendors who have recently capitalised on the growing demand for the outfit.
“Mtu asijaribu kuchukua credit yangu naona wachuuzi mumechangamukia,” she warned.
Backless Dera
The backless dera is a bold fashion trend that is taking over social media in Kenya, with influencers, celebrities, and everyday fashion lovers showing off the daring look on Instagram and TikTok.
Characterised by its minimal back coverage, the backless dera has become a symbol of confidence and bold fashion style currently in Kenya.
But while some fashionistas are embracing the trend with full gusto, others are finding it less flattering and harder to pull off in real life.
Backless deras can look stunning in photos, the key to rocking the trend is confidence and the right fit. And choosing dera styles that suit your body shape and comfort level, pairing them with support wear when needed, and owning the look with poise.
Whether you love it or laugh at it, the backless dera trend is undeniably one of the most talked-about fashion moments of the moment, reminding everyone that style should be about expression and comfort, not just what’s trending.