Genet showing me one of her beautiful shawls
Dear Shaded Viewers,
One of my best mornings in Addis Ababa was spent at Genet Kedebe's store and atelier. Genet is a pioneer in Ethiopian fashion. She created her own label -Paradise Fashion- in 1993 and has built up a successful business, using traditional weaving techniques and making them modern. She's a truly inspirational designer and I loved her energy and strong personality. She wanted to show me her work and I got hooked when I saw a beautiful, Grecian-inspired, white cotton dress. It was so delicate and lightweight that the fabric looked like silk chiffon.
She told me how the fabric pleats naturally and that everything was handwoven. I could have listened to her for hours, it was just fascinating. Looking at her scarves cabinet made me feel like a 5-year-old in a candy store.
Her shawls were sophisticated and huge. I loved the way she added lurex threads to make them chicer.
I am missing Ethiopia and hope I'll get to go back very soon. You really need a week to readapt to life in Europe after spending time there. Everything feels strangely sanitized and soulless. I guess Addis is a sprawling metropolis and the ongoing chaos is part of its charm.
Best,
Philippe