Welcome back from a long 4th of July weekend! While soaking up some sun and much needed rest, I also had the chance to snap some great pics of my latest anthropological fashion find! This week, we're bringing our attention back to the Fulani Tribe, however this time, we're taking a look at a male fashion staple.
Beyond Bohemian
As we continue to feature items soon to be released in the Q.A.C webstore for purchase June 1st, in this week's Cultural Beauty series, I wanted to feature the Rabari Tribe of India. Not only are these strong women leaders in their communities, but for the better part of thousands of years, they have been at the forefront of what is now being called "Boho / Bohemian" fashion. Now lets pause here, because if we're being really honest here? The traditional accessories these women wear goes so far beyond the generic term "boho."
Deep in the Heart of Kenya
Last week week I discussed the beauty of the Gambian people, specifically the Mandingo tribe, and their close relationship with the arts and craftsmanship. Of the many pieces the Gambia people brings to life, one of their most beautiful creations is their 100% amber necklaces.
This week, our eyes turn to the country of Kenya and it's world renowned Maasai Tribe. One of the key fashion staples found in Maasai cultural designs is the presence of intricate beadwork.
Vintage & Culture - Shopping Vintage (Part 2)
That said, why vintage? Why wear or discuss dated 20 ... 30 ... 60 year old articles of clothing if the purpose of this space was to highlight / celebrate global culture and it's impact on fashion? Simply put, when closely examined, we see that vintage pieces are culture. Rather, these garments offer yet another historical context to a group’s “way of life.” Vintage clothing is reflective of the human experience and can even showcase a time and place that may or may not exist any longer. It encapsulates a feeling of an era while speaking to the mood or circumstances of people from that time period. From sparse and modest clothes of the Puritan Era to glittery, extravagant, "in your face" clothing of the 1980s ... People have always had a close connection between the garments they chose the relationship to their environment or moment in history.
Hadiah Dari Laut (Gifts from the Ocean) - A Love Story from PaPua New Guinea
Not long ago I wrote about the "Fashion Find That Stunned a Shopaholic." I was convinced that 60+ year old dress I'd unwittingly uncovered was one of the unique holy grails of my fashion loving life ... and while that find was indeed amazing? ... I managed to find and connect with an artisan from the other side of the globe who presented me with a set of necklaces that literally took my breath away.