Reflection in the Mirror

I’m very excited to say I had the opportunity to visit a tailor who makes up to date clothes.   Here is the background story. This is my fourth stay in Niger, and being in a different culture is a bit frightening. America and Niger hardly have anything in common, besides the fact that we are all human. Living in a foreign country is not easy, especially meeting new people and trying to form friendships. People have their own opinions about Americans and a lot of the time it’s not good. People base these opinions on the media, American films, our culture, observe and bad experience. I try to appear to be adjusted and as natural in this culture as possible, the message I try to convey is I embrace you. Vivian (a new tailor I mentioned in a previous post) does not let Nigerien culture dictate her own style. Vivian and my gorg French teacher have both inspired me and   my senior. So today when I choose the models I wanted, I broke a lot of rules concerning dress. I didn’t go for

   

      New Textile / Fabric This fabric was a spur of the moment buy. My boss introduced me to a new tailor and I wanted to test her out. I was in the town and didn’t see the need to return home for the fabric I had there so I decided to buy new fabric. I found it in a boutique in town, one where the fabric is known for its price. You can buy six yards 3pigne for 5000 CFCA translated that’s roughly $10.00 us dollars! The down side of inexpensive fabrics, it’s not printed on both sides, and the fabric shrinks after being washed. Normally to work with this fabric you need to wash it before hand and have the tailor add seams you can cut open for more space. I had this tissu made into a beautiful traditional African set (skirt & matching top) I usually have 2 yds. remaining when using 3 pigne. Most of the women use the remaining tissue to make a scarf or a head peace.   I do not care for the head piece, it’s a bit much for me but to each its own. What I w

I have a new tailor I’m working with, her name is Vivian. Vivian is Togolese and Ghanaian, what does that mean? Her fashion cents and style is different from the typical Nigerien. She has flair and good ideals. Ghana and Togo are up to date countries, they’ve experienced different cultures and have some American influences, YEAH!!!! Normally with consultations you tell the tailor what you want and they attempt to make the item for you, even if they are not comfortable with the design. They will often make changes without mentioning it to you and sometimes the finish product looks nothing like what you wanted. I have given her four projects to start 2 blouses, A Skirt, and an African style skirt set. I didn’t give Vivian any ideals to what I wanted; I wanted her ideals for me. Vivian took the lead during the consultation, showing me photos and adding her own twist and ideals on what she thought would look nice and what she didn’t.   Most Nigerien tailors are uncomfortable

Yesterday I received a late birthday / Christmas gift. It what we call pagne or tissu here in Niamey. The styles isn't one I would choose myself, but I do enjoy the colors. I have a few ideas in mind that I may share in a later post. Here are photos and different angles of this animated fabric.  The name of the manufacture is Hitarget, I don't know much about this company or the quality of the tissu. The bottom of the fabric reads, Veritable Wax Block Prints Hitarget 74714.

Yesterday was an inspiring day for my students and I. We had the opportunity to visit The Jardins of Saga Niamey. It was refreshing to have a change of scenery from the everyday sand, camels, sheep, and goats. The air was fresh and crisp, and there was beautiful foliage as far as the eyes can see. Not a drop of orange sand or any noisy lambs, It was truly beautiful and peaceful all around. You can't imagine what a treat this was for my students and I: In Tampa, Florida, you see trees, plants, open water, and beaches every day. Having been in the garden yesterday made me realize how much I miss home. On a brighter note: I now have a place to go to if I'm ever feeling down or homesick. I will call it, the Lost Gardens of Niger: SAGA Please enjoy the photos! +