Ituen Basi International Trunk Show, London.

Imagine our excitement when we realised we'd be able to get our hands on the hand-crafted, colour fest that is an Ituen Basi creation right here in London! (We were Very excited!!) We went along to her trunk show on Sunday, held at the suitably colourful shake bar, Shoki Shakes.
We were treated to a display of accessories with the effect akin to that of being in a candy shop. Some of it we expected such as her signature ankara covered beads (the designer is pictured with them styled as a bracelet) and bracelets as well as hair bows and brooches. 

Less familar but equally delightful accessories featured included alice bands, ankara covered hoop earrings in various sizes, thinner bangles that you can purchase in threes and braided lengths of ankara that can be styled as skinny belts or hair decorations. More unexpected were the articles aimed at the home such as the aprons, key chains, dolls and, my personal favourite, shaggy floor throws.





















Clothing was more low key and included some tshirts, bikini tops (which we imagined layered under white, loose fit, long line tanks) and dresses. More accessories included the obi style wide waist belts and fringed shawls. We also fell in love with the ankara totes in different styles ranging from a simple tote to a more intricate fringed bag (pictured above).

Everything is beautifully crafted, hand made and feels precious and would make a welcome addition to any home or wardrobe. 


We will definitely be savouring the pieces we picked up for a long time to come.

If you are lucky to live in Lagos you can buy Ituen Basi at several outlets (see their Facebook page for more details) otherwise some pieces can be purchased online at www.myasho.com.


You can see more pictures on our Facebook page at In The Know West Africa.

E.F. & S.D.

A is for ...Ankara

 source 

Now, did you know the fabric we call Ankara is actually named for the capital of Turkey? We didn't! A little curiosity and some Google revealed all - also called Dutch Wax as it originally came almost exclusively from Holland, it was then christened  Ankara after Turkey began producing it cheaper than formerly available. Now it is made in as far flung places as China as well as locally by manufactures such as ATL. It's popularity has exploded due to it's modern and creative applications by brands and designers such as Woodin, Vlisco, Jewel By Lisa, Tiffany Amber, Ituen Basi and countless others. Now you can get almost anything you can imagine (or would dare wear!) bags, bracelets and other accessories as well as ready to wear and custom clothing. A personal favourtie of mine would have to be the Ituen Basi hair accessories - perfect for that pop of colour.

And the more colour, I say, the better!!! 


Pictures,  left from www.myasho.com, right Ituen Basi Facebook page