Akulayi Kanyiki, a Congolese born and living in Germany, created ALLEON in 2013 in the Cologne neighbourhood after being at a party in the surroundings of cologne. At the party, he noticed that the guests were wearing fashionable outfits in neutral colours, following the mainstream and without any diversity. Despite the good atmosphere at the party, he felt bored and realised that something is missing, emotions and a little bit more colours. 

Suddenly, in the middle of the crowd, there she stood. A woman, wearing a knee-length, bright, bold, elegant dress with vibrant colours and geometric patterns in African prints, combined with heels and a clutch bag in the same colours. Everyone’s eyes were on that women, and he knew that she had chosen the perfect outfit. He loved the way that vibrant red, blue and yellow colours make her feel special and cheer her up. Her dress made her stand out against any background she finds herself in, without worrying about what others might think. He was used to seeing these African print fabrics during traditional weddings or in his mom’s closet but not at a party. At that moment he realized that colours truly do affect the way we feel. He understood that clothes have the power to change moods and they are a creative way to express emotions. With her dress, the woman was able to express her individuality, her personality and her creative voice. Christian truly believe that vibrant colours in her dress made her feel the best version of herself and that there is not anything else needed to stand out of the crowd.