It may not quite feel like it outside but we know it’s coming.  The days have already shortened and that’s my cue that fall has arrived.  On the heels of fall is winter so it is not my favorite time of the year.  Especially with all this Pumpkin spice foolishness in the air. Still, there are some beautiful and exciting things about it and I focus on these in my life and in Zawadi.

First of all it’s a season of change, both in our homes and how we dress.  Here at Zawadi we have some items that help with the transition and make staying at home a beautiful pleasure.  Pillows, for example,  are for curling up on the sofa and watching your favorite shows or even  being a child again and having pillow fights.  We have a variety; those using wax prints  from Nasozi, those using traditional woven textiles of indigo, mudcloth and a mix of kuba and solid in brown and black.  We also have pillows in Manjako woven textiles from Senegal and a very limited number of pillows from Aissa Dionne, the doyen of Senegalese textile revival.

Fall is also the time we turn our homes into gatherings for family meals. Rich stews and savory comfort foods replace the light fare of summer. Looking for a delicious African inspired recipe to warm your heart and your belly? Check out this Gullah-Geechee Beef Stew from Afroculinaria

What better way to serve a delicious meal to friends and family than with painstakingly handcrafted dishware from the Potters’ Workshop  in South Africa.  This wonderful company has trained and supported artisans for over twenty years in the intricate process of creating these gorgeous pieces. We’ve carried square plates and platters for a while.This year we’ve included vases from their new collection in colors that match any décor.

Fall is also the season to bundle up and layer to keep warm. While we typically think of African clothing as a Spring/Summer affair this year we’re expanding our lines to long tees and Hoodies from 2Headz featuring iconic African and African American figures, jackets and shawls from Shaka King, and gorgeous scarves in mudcloth, indigo, and cotton prints.

2Headz Shirley Chisholm Long Tee

Shaka King FW 2018 shawl

We’re super excited to be getting in a brand new line of bed linens from Dakar, and we know you’ll love the collection of duvets, pillows, and accessories.

There’s more than this, so swing by and see what fall can bring.

Sincerely,

Irene + Faraji