Wolde Molalign Korebtaw

A longtime fashion designer and clothing retail professional, Wolde Molalign Korebtaw ran two clothing stores in Africa for more than three decades before retiring in 1996. During his distinguished career, he earned a reputation as an authority on men’s wear who leveraged a deep knowledge of European styles to produce his clothes. Drawing upon the Italian design tradition, Wolde Molalign Korebtaw considered fashion icons, such Julio Papa Gallo, Giovanni Galiano, and Paulo Giuseppe, as powerful influences.

Now retired for more than two decades, Mr. Korebtaw enjoys spending his time playing cards with friends, traveling, and watching films. As a young man in Eritrea, he enjoyed visiting famous cinema houses, such as the Cinema Impero and the Asmara Theatre, where he attended showings of numerous classic Italian films, including La Dolce Vita, Roman Holiday, and Today and Tomorrow. He also developed an appreciation for Italian film stars, such as Sophia Loren and Franco Nero during this time.

Also an avid traveler, Mr. Korebtaw explored multiple parts of the world through his work in the clothing industry. In addition to regularly visiting the Middle East, he frequently traveled to India to purchase fabrics for his designs.