Camilla Franks

I Covet Thee
Camilla Franks design. Sigh, if you do not know Camilla Franks then you really need to go to the web and do a search.

I love her fearless use of design, colour and pattern.  This Aussie is fearless!

Camilla Franks Part Two

Camilla's Caftans

More of this awesome Aussie's design.  One should visit the site to read about how the designer got her start in the business.  It's a very encouraging read.

Sometimes Called A Moroccan Caftan

Is it a Caftan or Not?

It's not a caftan, as some people call the attire. The caftan is a one piece dress loosely worn without a belt, but the  "Takchita" is quite different. The Takchita is a two piece dress composed of a Tahtiya as the first layer (traditionally simple with no ornaments) , and Fouqia or Dfina as the second layer, a kaftan which is often open and transparent with a lot of beautiful embroidery and ornaments. It is usually worn with a Mdamma (belt), either made of silk or made of gold or silver decorated with precious stones.

Head Wraps and Geles

Head wraps and Geles make my heart flutter. Something about a length of colorful fabric wrapped about the head, I don't know if I love them because it's a sense of security, or a statement that says, "Look at me."

The Gele

Now for something completely different, there is the Gele. It is a flat piece of fabric with plain or bold patterns wrapped by hand to form a hat. Geles are worn by African women to complement their attire.

A fusion of African and American clothes, and it would be awesome.

Sika Designs

Phyllis Taylor is a Ghanaian and United Kingdom based fashion designer. She is the CEO of Sika Designs, a fashion store she started in 2006 with outlets in Ghana and UK.

Love the fusion of Africa and Western European influences.  As for now, she doesn't have a plus size range, but that can all change.

Africa + China Fusion

Model: Ming Xi | Photographer: Mark Segal | Publication: Vogue China, May 2011