The importance of fashion in postwar ruin

While this first photo might evoke shock or rage in the hearts of an anti-capitalist, when you take a closer look you discover something even a Marxist might appreciate...

Yes, Sierra Leonean fashion designer Adama Kai is a woman after my own heart. I have had some difficulty locating an online presence for her, but found this fantastic interview at Ladybrille. Here is a taste:

LADYBRILLE.com: You have been quoted saying that what "you are doing is enriching Sierra Leone." and you say that it's like opening a "hospital or a school." Arguably schools and hospitals are critical to improving the overall health and economic state of Sierra Leone. High fashion/couture is not. Could you elaborate on what you mean when you say it enriches Sierra Leone?
Adama: What I know is that you can follow the history and development of the world culture and its people through cloth. The topic of dress is [that] of self-image, self-esteem and self-confidence. With the recent past history like ours [Sierra Leone], one can only imagine what it has done to our self-image. Some say fashion and style is superficial but I believe it has a way of boosting ones self esteem and I see self-confidence as critical for social development. Aschobi is changing the image of Sierra Leone, from Blood Diamonds to Couture. Through fashion, I am employing tailors, through the tailors’ talents, I am showcasing African style. I am enriching their lives an dshowing them a new way of looking at life.


I would rather you read her own words than my own spiel related to them. It really is worth a click over...

(Images by Katrina Manson as attributed in the Corriere della Sera report by Maurizio Caprara.)