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A recent buying trip to South Africa led me to the wonderful discovery of a fair trade clothier located in Cape Town called Township Patterns. This social enterprise has an impressive list of accomplishments and range of designs. I was fortunate to meet and build a relationship with them during my brief, whirlwind visit.
Township’s founder, Nicole-Marie Iresch, met me in their boutique located in Cape Quarter Mall. The design of the boutique itself reflects the energy and resourcefulness of the seven independent producer groups who live and work in townships around Cape Town. From the wooden crates as clothing racks to the embroidered coffee sack pillows, every corner of the store is creative, inspiring, and beautiful.
Nicole-Marie is a social innovator leaving her mark on the fashion industry. She has worked with the township women for over 15 years, providing them with meaningful opportunity and a bridge for their work to access global markets. Our time together was an exchange of ideas and collaborative energy. We shared our respective approaches to economic development, and she spoke about the strength and commitment it takes to run a social enterprise. This view resonated with me.
Voorspoed (Success) Cooperative, founded in 2007.
Nicole-Marie described how the colors and fabric patterns of the Township range are directly inspired by the vibrant colors of the township rooftops and walls where the cooperatives are located. These seven cooperatives support an estimate of seventy women and their families. The members begin as trainees and blossom into professional businesswomen, running their own operation, and making their own decisions.
Township Patterns has been featured in many South African publications and fashion magazines, including Elle, Glamour, Marie Claire, and Oprah Magazine. They have also received notoriety by some well-known supporters.
Carla Bruni-Sarkozy visits Township.
In 2010 Carla Bruni-Sarcozy, the First Lady of the French Republic, visited a Township-partner sewing cooperative who had designed a bag to commemorate her visit. These limited edition bags were numbered and 50 were featured in the exclusive Collette boutique in Paris, France. The bag’s proceeds contributed to the establishment of a new woman’s sewing cooperative.
Township Patterns also designed a dress for Zolani, the lead singer of the band Freshlyground, who was featured in the FIFA 2010 World Cup official song “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” by Shakira.
As my visit came to an end, it was a joy working with Danna and Chuma to complete Revive’s first order. They both offered their own insights into the mission and importance of the Township enterprise. Upon reflection I feel a strong connection with many people I met in South Africa because of our shared values and interests. These connections remind us that we are not doing this work alone, but as part of a large team, trying to make a positive impact through our efforts.
The exciting culmination of this visit is that Revive now offers designs from Township Patterns’ latest collection. This is our first line direct from South Africa and is available at both store locations or online at www.ReviveStore.com. Stay tuned to see more beautiful handicrafts from South Africa available at Revive.
With love,
Lisa
The vibrant hues of Khayelitsha inspire this fabric.
Zolani in her custom Township dress.
Finalizing our order with Danna and Chuma.
This Cinch Belt Tunic with four pockets and print cuffs.
Harem Pants, Ruched Belt, Ruched Skirt
Follow Township Patterns on Facebook
I received from Carole Hambleton Moser, on her recent visit to Capestrano, Italy, one of your beautiful red scarves. It is admired and the material is just superb.
‘I cannot wait to return to Cape Town next year to visit the shops.
Who knows, maybe one day an outlet could be found in Rome?
Pauline N. Fromer