In South Africa there is an annual commemoration of heritage, that sees many people putting on their best traditional gear, in high spirits and celebration. The idea behind celebration one’s heritage is one that we can commend. One of the many definitions of that we love states that there are three elements that can be used to describe heritage which are fabric, stories and culture.
The second element which are the stories which is what you will find being linked to traditional material. This is significant in fashion as a story is constantly being told from how outfits are styled, to the meaning of different colours and patterns. A great discovery is how ,if you look closely at alot of African prints you will realise how the shapes are of flowers or leaves ,spider webs and river streams. All which are things found in nature and the environments that are around us. Africa is truly a place of many mysteries and stories and these are prominent is the fabrics and clothing.
Culture is one of Africa’s greatest heritages. A culture that is still upheld in African countries is the making of fabrics and textiles. The use of old machinery and equipment keeps our rich heritage alive and does not change the outcome and quality of the cloths. A strong sense of knowledge of the past and how certain materials were worn is advantageous as it can also be evolutionanized into the current times and the future.
Fabrics which are the things that we can physically see and touch. These are inclusive of buildings and machines as well and in this case of fashion these are artifacts that are all part of the process of our beloved traditional pieces. Heritage fashion or brands are described as having stood the test of time just as the many fabrics and cloths that are indigenous to the African content.
Here are a few
The Kente Cloth
This a famous Ghanaian textile with the existence of over one hundred kente woven patterns. In Ghana the cloth symbolises high value and has been found in many fashion attires such as trousers, jackets dresses, skirts etc.
Mudcloth
This particular fabric weaves cloth and colour together. Originating from Mali and is worn as a form of camouflage for hunters as well as a badge of status. This cloth is usually painted with different patterns of lines, squares and rectangles. Colours like maroon, navy and black are usually standouts.
Shweshwe
Hailing all the way from Lesotho, this cotton fabric has gained international recognition from local designers taking their pieces to runways to wedding season. Prints and patterns have been seen in Louis Vuitton collections. Which is open for discussion on whether that is appropriation or inspiration but the textile is rich and versatile.
Egyptian Cotton
A staple in Egyptian and fabric culture! Having been controversial over the past few years due to economic and export reasons but there’s no denying that luxury is this textile’s second name and quality is it’s heritage. The fabric can be used for shirts to give them a more silkier, softer feel. However this hoarded cotton is a winner when it comes to pillows, bedding and towels. You’ll find these in five star hotels, which explains why people permanently borrow towels at hotels.
What we love about finding out more about these fabrics is how every African country has its own indigenous cloths, so whenever you are wearing your traditional attires, experimenting with dashiki’s or getting ready for an African inspired theme party or event; take a moment to look at those colours and patterns and remember the heritage. Fabric, Story and Culture.
Thank-you Olwethu
PROUD COLOUR
Model: Olwethu Mshumpela (IG: @lwe_thu I Twitter: @Lwe_thu)
Photographer: S O L’
Style & Creative Content: S O L’
Outfit Details:
African jacket:
Custom
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Until Next Time
