Using traditional african shwe-shwe fabrics to make vibrant, comfortable, unique and fun women's trousers, using cotton/lycra for the fold-over waistband
This range of rich, vibrant, lightweight pure cotton fabric was originally from India, but was introduced into South Africa by German settlers in 1858. It was traditionally made using copper rollers with unique patterns etched into the surface, which allowed for the transfer of a weak dye solution onto the fabric, giving it its distinctive patterns and smell. Bundles of the fabric were heavily starched to protect them from damp on the long boat journey from Europe to Africa. This method of manufacture is still used today.
The women of the Xhosa tribe in Africa adopted the fabric and modified it significantly to create the unique and distinctive African designs we have come to know and love today. It was also these women who gave it the name “Shweshwe” mimicking the sound of their skirts as they walked.
All my pants are hand-made from 100% pure cotton ‘Shweshwe’ fabric in a range of fun and funky colours/prints. The pants have a boldly flared leg with a comfortable, stretch-knit, fold-over waist in a single matching colour and are well suited for trendy, fun and bold living.
“BINTA” means little girl in Arabic and is the name stitched to the outer hem of each pair of pants, adding to the uniqueness of these bright, funky pants that can be dressed up or down, to suit your mood and style.
This fabric must be hand washed in cold water – expect colour to run for the first few washes. Fabric becomes softer with wear.
Sizes available:
32, 34, 36 – European sizes
There is enough hem in each pair to allow for some lengthening, but if you’re super-tall, e-mail me and we can discuss extra-length. If you’re super-short, e-mail me too – I’ll see what I can do.
