Swahili Leso Sundress

This dress was handcrafted by two tailors in the US using tribal fabric from Jumuiya and specifically Kenya. The dress is a slip on with a wide enough neckline. We designed the dress to fit a curvier frame in the warmer months. The traditional fabric has a saying at the front which is a proverb. The proverb reminds the wearer and others to be mindful of gossip. If you choose to go around sharing information about other peoples' lives, be mindful of the need to also share your own. If you cannot proudly share your information as well, perhaps opt to be silent. Proverbs on textiles are how Coastal women of the Swahili Empire discussed issues impacting society. They praised each other this way and reprimanded each other this way as well. Certain cultures around the globe are almost 70% nonverbal. So clothing and other portions of society are how they communicate status, wisdom, values and so much more. Through these cultural creations, we empower makers we work with, by assisting with selling their creativity. We also empower global communities by sharing their Indigenuity (Indigenous wisdom and creativity) that often remains overlooked in today's world. This dress can be paired with colorful or subtle accessories. The dress is meant to make a statement. Pair it with flats, heels or sneakers and your favorite bracelets and headwrap. You should be remembered. Make that statement. Buy this dress or gift it to a loved one. Measurements: 33 - 34" long (as measured from the shoulder to the bottom hem). Bust: 21". Sleeves: 7 - 8" (14 - 16" total) wide as measured from shoulder to bust area. Neckline is 9" wide and the v neck is 6" deep. Waist is 40" all around. Hip area is 49". Bottom hem of dress is 56" all around. This dress does not stretch.