Transylvania’s Kappa Alpha Psi and Phi Kappa Tau recently partnered to host “The Power of Dressing,” an event featuring Albert Lukonga, co-founder and executive designer of Albert Couture—the first-ever Fashion House in Kentucky. This event was a part of Kappa Alpha Psi’s K-week, a weeklong series of events hosted by the fraternity. Lukonga, whose clients include David Beckham, Taylor Swift, and Governor Andy Beshear, among others, shared his personal story and lessons in both style and entrepreneurship.
Born in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Lukonga and his family moved to Zimbabwe during the Second Congo War. There, he grew up speaking British English and became fluent in six languages, working on his seventh (Mandarin), which he deemed essential for success in the global fashion industry. In 2006, his family relocated to Lexington, KY, where he attended Morton Middle School and Henry Clay High School, participating in soccer and track before enrolling at the University of Kentucky.
Known for dressing sharply, Lukonga quickly realized the power of first impressions. He stood out at fraternity parties in suits tailored by his mother. Although he initially planned to become a cardiologist to please his parents, by shadowing doctors at UK Hospital and being complimented by coworkers who directed him to fashion, he realized his true passion and decided to pursue fashion full-time.
A self-taught designer, Lukonga gained early experience working at Jos. A. Bank before traveling abroad to deepen his knowledge of textiles, fabric sourcing, and business operations. His breakthrough came during a trip to Europe, where he boldly introduced himself to manufacturers as “Albert from Albert Couture.” Despite skepticism, he secured samples by confidently promoting his emerging brand and began selling custom suits directly to clients in Lexington. By sourcing directly and minimizing overhead, he maintained high profit margins and built his business from the ground up.
When COVID-19 came, he adapted by offering appointment-only services and charging $100 per consultation, which ultimately expanded his client base.
During a candid Q&A, Lukonga encouraged students to leverage social media to connect with industry professionals and emphasized that the most important career decision is choosing a path that feels right for you. For men, he said they should own a well-fitted black suit and white button-down, focusing on fit over price. He also recommended learning basic skills, such as ironing, via YouTube. For women, he suggested investing in professional wardrobe staples, noting that shoes and hair make the strongest impression.
Lukonga views fashion as a tool for expressing personality and building a personal brand, something that everyone needs in today’s world. Regarding networking, he said it doesn’t matter whether someone loves or hates you; you just need them talking about you.
For Albert, style is all about personality. He credits much of his creative inspiration to his closest friends from around the world—chefs. He noted parallels in artisanal food and high fashion: both combine taste, color, and individuality to create something truly unique. Learning to love your individuality is key.
Albert Lukonga’s journey and advice resonated deeply with students. As Albert Couture enters its eighth year, he continues to prove that passion and persistence are key to professional success.
