The Tailored Wit
Discover Ambus
Our Vision
AMBUS is an accessory line where culture meets elegance and fit. We create sculptural bags, poetic head wraps, and expressive clothing that blends craftsmanship with an artistic touch.
Our signature pieces are rooted in African textile traditions with a global design aesthetic where every piece is a wearable story — crafted with care, depth, and a touch of wit.
Whether it’s a wrap that honours heritage, clothing with a sculptural flair and a tailored sophistication or a bag that makes a quiet statement, our pieces are made for those who dress with intention and style with soul.
Our debut capsule, “Wit in Every Thread,” explores how clothing can be both expressive and sculptural, reimagining the accessory as art — merging soft, sustainable techniques with bold, thoughtful forms.
Hear from Our Clients
"Wearing Ambus accessories is an art itself"
JPK
I can't remember the last time I had such fun learning something! Arlette created and facilitated the perfect experience... we learned fascinating things about African fabric art and were guided to create our own creations in a friendly and freeing space. It takes a really good teacher to bring it all together, and Arlette is and did. Thank you very much for sharing your passion with us Arlette!
K P
Sure, I'd be happy to!
" I enjoyed the African Vegan Workshop presented by Arlette. She first gave us some interesting background info on the cultural context and meaning of Bogolanfini and then led us through a very relaxed and enjoyable workshop, well prepared and well delivered, where we were able to use our creativity to produce a unique scarf, decorated with our own interpretation of Bogolanfini."
S B
Projects & Collaborations
Pattern Maker - Technical Designer - Textile Artist
Pattern Maker
As a skilled pattern maker with expertise in both traditional and digital techniques, I specialize in transforming creative concepts into precise, wearable designs.
With formal training from the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York ( Patternmaking/ Fashion Design Knitwear), FORMAMOD in Paris ( Computer Aided Design) and OCAD University in Toronto (Textile Arts with Natural Dyes), my approach blends technical precision with artistic vision.
I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with luxury brands such as Saks fifth Ave, Bergdorf Goodman, Victoria’s Secrets stores, Bloomingdales, Neiman Marcus, Jones New Apparel group, Nordstrom, Abercrombie & Fitch, Macys merchandising group, David Yurman, Sony Style, Swarovski, Holt Renfrew…, where I contributed to high-end collections that celebrate craftsmanship, innovation, and cultural storytelling.
From custom couture to ready-to-wear, my work reflects a commitment to quality, inclusivity, and timeless design.
Technical Designer
Technical Design Expertise
With a strong background in garment construction and fit, I bring precision and functionality to every stage of the design process.
As a technical designer, I have worked closely with product development teams in Paris, Romania, China, Portugal, and Turkey—coordinating globally to create detailed tech packs, lead fittings, and manage approvals through to final production.
From prototype to store-ready pieces, I ensure each garment aligns with brand standards in quality, fit, and design integrity. My experience spans luxury fashion, ready-to-wear, for brands such as 1-2-3 ETAM groupe, Alain Manoukian, Max Azria BCBG ...
“Wit in Every Thread,”
Hand-made: Dyed using natural plant pigments and cassava root
Textile Artist
“Wit in Every Thread,”
Exploring the dialogue between the body and cloth — how tailoring, drape, and movement can express wit, elegance, and rebirth. Inspired by a renaissance of self, the silhouettes bloom with intention: fluid yet structured, soft yet commanding.
About Arlette Ngung – Textile Artist, Educator & Pattern Maker
As a multidisciplinary textile artist, educator, and pattern maker inspired by tradition and sustainability, Arlette weaves together ancestral knowledge with contemporary practices.
Devoted to preserving and reinterpreting traditional African textiles and natural dyeing techniques, Arlette draws deep inspiration from the cultural heritage of Eastern and Central Africa. Her work uses textiles as a visual language to tell stories, explore identity, and inspire social change.
With a strong foundation in African vegan textile art, Arlette has collaborated with institutions such as the Textile Museum of Canada, the Aga Khan Museum, University of Toronto and Millersville University—bringing eco-conscious, culturally rooted workshops and installations into museums, schools, and community spaces. She has been featured in Selvedge Magazine and interviewed by CBC Radio Canada for her innovative, plant-based approach to art education.