Sibling rivalry is an ancient story, but sibling collaboration is a rarer tale. For Jamil and Alia Juma, unexpected teamwork is the secret to their success. The brother-sister designers have been working together since 2003, when they launched JUMA, a line of cool, casual men’s and women’s clothing. They design the line together, then Alia, a former model, handles product design and development, while Jamil, a former investment strategist, focuses on branding.
Originating from a studio on Wallace Avenue, JUMA is carried across the globe, in boutiques from Toronto to Tokyo, Vancouver to Israel, and at Henri Bendel’s in New York.
The designers shared a few of their favourite places in Toronto with The Style Notebook.
What’s your favourite place to go for a drink during the week (and what’s your drink of choice?)
Alia: “Sweaty Betty’s (13 Ossington Ave., 416-535-6861) for a glass of red.”
Jamil: “The Beaver (1192 Queen St. W., 416-537-2768) for a rye and ginger.”
To go for a drink on the weekend
Alia: “I rarely go out on weekends unless it’s to a concert or event.”
Jamil: “I like going to friends’ houses on the weekend.”
Top brunch spot
Alia: “I don’t go for brunch, ever. I always at work at that time.”
Jamil: “Ditto.”
Favourite overall retail experience
Alia: “I love going to Serpentine (Toronto), Pho Pa (Toronto), Oak (New York), and Joyce (Hong Kong) because of their service.”
Jamil: “I enjoy Serpentine (Toronto), Sydney’s (Toronto) as well as Uniqlo (NY, Hong Kong). Everyone is passionate about the items they have and very knowledgeable.”
