The Spring 2010 runways of Gucci, Van Noten, Givenchy, March Jacobs and the list goes on and on, declared that tribal prints were an absolute must have for our spring and summer wardrobes and of course, spring arrived, and along with it came throngs of FABULOUS mass produced ethnic inspired caftans, tribal printed shifts, harem pants, woven bags and accessories. Today, I was browsing Style.com and I stumbled across this video of Liya Kebede at the Spring 2010 Lemlem Look Book shoot and I was reminded that these tribal prints are inspired the traditional, gorgeous, HANDMADE goods by masterful artisans who produce clothing for reasons far beyond the latest fashion trend. Providing a source of income and every day clothing, their beautiful tapestries and handmade goods are created out of necessity.
Kebede's Lemlem collection was born in 2007, introducing a gorgeous line of children's clothing, handmade in Ethiopia by weavers using traditional weaving techniques. Not surprisingly, the line was a hit and Lemlem quickly expanded the line to include a collection for women. While Lemlem continues to make its mark on the fashion world, it has also become a means of sustenance for what may have been seen as a dying art form in Ethiopia. Modernization, in all it's splendor, comes at a price. Ethiopian weavers were essentially being pushed out of the market, and their one of a kind handmade goods replaced by mass produced, cost efficient (and fabulous) replicas. At the heart and soul of Lemlem is Kebede's desire to preserve this gorgeous artform and provide employment opportunities in her homeland.
As you're looking for ethnic or tribal inspired pieces to complete your spring and summer wardrobe, don't forget Lemlem! Here are few of my fave pieces from the Spring 2010 collection. View the entire collection on the Lemlem website!
Lucy Tunic - $175.00
Tibeb Jacket - $195.00
Tibeb Bag - $195.00
Nazret Wrap - $78.00
And I just LOVE these adorable belts from the children's line...
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