"Sunday Runway - Shuka Cloth . . . "

Greetings,

I know we usually spend our Sundays together ooo-ing and ah-ing over the latest models to sashay down a fashion-week runway or delve into the latest images from the Highland Games in Scotland.  But, let travel a bit further this week.  All the way to a mystery.  All the way to Africa. 

 

'Shuka Cloth' has always been identified with the Maasai tribe of East Africa.  Known as fierce warriors - the Maasai tribe's style has always been unique.  Shuka cloth is know for its bright, clear colour (usually a searing, bright red) and vibrant patterns.  That pattern could easily be described as intersecting warp and weft stripes creating a grid pattern across the width of the textile.  Well, at a certain point - that description also could be used to identify classic highland tartans.  So . . . are they connected?

There's a bit of a controversy around this.  Some have noted that the traditional wearing of animal hides changed during the early 1900's - which could connect it with British colonist and missionaries from that time period. The Africa Inland Mission was first established in 1895, and until as late as 1909 - Kenya was its only operation.  And honestly, it certainly looks like the clan tartans from the highlands.

Like so much in the history of fashion - we might never know.  But, the colours and textiles are certainly inspirational.

Cheers,
Scot