AFRICAN FABRICS

In Semba we are passionate about African fabrics, their bright colours and designs and handmade quality give us joy and put us in a good mood. But there is more behind the colours, there is a rich cultural fascinating meaning that we want to share with you.

The significance of the African wax fabric, the name with what this colourful textiles are known in Africa, starts in the mid XIXth century with the discovery of the wax-based  batik techniques by the Danish’s African soldiers while fighting in the Indonesian war. They were fascinated by the vivid prints so they adapted the printing technique that was used there and brought it to Africa.

So, what’s an African wax fabric? It is a luxurious cotton fabric tinted with a wax treatment, which gives it a slightly shiny appearance and enhances the colours. Traditionally, African fabrics and prints are worn with pleasure and pride by every African woman for special occasions as a cultural identity and heritage.

Each design of the African fabrics has a meaning and a name, for our new 2019 espadrilles collection we have chosen a lip shaped pattern, a “classic” design from 1953. This sophisticated and eye-catching African wax fabric is called “my husband is capable” referring to a partner that is capable … in every way!