I came
across The African Shirt Company in last week's Grazia and was captured by their vivid designs. I'm a sucker for a good ethnic pattern because they're always
bursting with spirit and character. The earthy colours of orange, brown and
deep blue sit next to one another in a clashing complement, drawing the African
landscape it's been hand-made amongst.
The bold shirts display the traditional design culture of its Kenyan
producers. I later realised it also represents a more promising future
brightened from this company's investment in two Kenyan mothers. Ruth and Clara
are locals who have learned pattern cutting and sewing to make these
shirts. Aiming to help the struggling village Kiteghe, The African Shirt
Company profits are used to build a tree nursery to restore the increasing
desertification in the community. Traditional farming income is threatened here
by drought all year round and this environmental degradation with a lack of
education prevents its restoration. The Company supports environmental
education and land management schemes which will provide a sustainable landscape
for food and trade.
I love how these shirts tell their story so well. They
are also incredibly unique, with only 4 of each pattern made.
Here are some of my favourites...
Women's
Men's
All shirts - £50
