Face coverings from African fabrics

Flytigress

One of my friends has some beautiful masks from a company called DIOP. I was unsure about wearing one, but interestingly their website discusses whether or not that would be cultural appropriation. I like how they address that frankly.

5 years ago

Shopping

10 replies

Latest reply was from elpgal

Janet

(website)

Veteran

I've seen them advertised! Great masks. I love the prints.

A friend of mine is also selling really fab masks. I actually ordered two more from her because I am finding I MUCH prefer the kind that tie behind the head rather than looping around the ears. My ears seem to be sensitive and hurt from the straps, even with a looser mask. Here's her site:

https://qualitymasksupply.com/...../face-mask

I ordered the Dolce & Gabanna hydrangea print, and one of the Indigo prints, plus a set of filters. Was seriously tempted by the Valentino too!

5 years ago

Anonymous

Flytigress, the on site statement is very eloquent and sincere but perhaps sadly, can't be the feelings of everyone. At this point I don't see a time when I will feel comfortable wearing something that could easily offend or put myself at risk.

Happily this does not detract from my enjoyment of these very beautiful fabrics.

5 years ago

Kathie

Veteran

Flytigress- thanks so much for pointing out the discussion of cultural appropriation. Much food for thought, and I like how they framed their views as part of a much larger (and longer) conversation.

Janet- I bought some of the QMS masks at your recommendation. Also got the indigo one, because I’ve bought hand knitting yarn from the same dyer. And I got some of the plain sew-your-own ones. I was thinking of letting my kids tie-dye those. I really like the fabric.

5 years ago

Jules

Veteran

Thanks for posting it was a good read.

5 years ago

rachylou

Veteran

I kinda love that they give you a phone number to give to people who object to them having sold to you...

5 years ago

Jaime

(website)

Veteran

I am impressed with their discussion of appropriation. So many of the designs we take for granted result from cultural sharing. But that is different than stealing.

5 years ago

Firecracker (Sharan)

Veteran

I really appreciate their explanation.

5 years ago

Janet

(website)

Veteran

Rachy, I liked that too! A terrific explanation of their attitude toward "appropriation."

5 years ago

Stagiaire Fash

Veteran

The African fashion industry is vibrant and has been trying for years to break into larger global markets. There are international brands with HQs in Europe and the US that manufacture in Africa, but sub-Saharan fashion designers want and have earned a foothold for their own styles.

Maybe these masks will help this company get a broader base of customers.

5 years ago

elpgal

Veteran

Janet, if you have sewist friends, see if they will use the thin round elastic. The 1/4” elastic is unbearable for me, but the round one works so much better.

5 years ago

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