Township inspiration
‘When I was first invited to visit the homes of a group of women in Khayelitsha in 1992, I encountered an abundance of patterns, colours and textures, in surprising combinations, and was struck by the everyday ingenuity, creativity and flair of township life. I discovered a beauty, a style and a spirit that I had never encountered before. From that moment, I nursed a desire to express and translate the originality and style of township women and their homes, and to share the unique colours, textures and vibe with the world. I also recognized the energy and potential of these women, and felt compelled to help them find meaningful opportunities that would convey their heroic spirit and creativity.’ – Township® founder & CEO Nicole-Marie Iresch
Vibrant patterns
Township Patterns’ detailed photographic archive provided the inspiration for an extensive collection of iconic prints, developed in collaboration with the École Duperré School of Applied Arts in Paris. École Duperré is legendary, founded in 1856 with many of its alumni going on to work for globally renowned fashion brands. To create the Township® range, a talented group of designers interpreted and translated recurring township colours, patterns, shapes and textures into distinctive and expressive print designs infused with raw energy. The vibrant prints are exclusive to Township®, bringing a unique spirit to the label’s range of fair trade cotton bags, scarves, hats, shoes and clothing – all handcrafted by township women.
Spirited fashion
The Township® range of bags and fashion accessories – for men, women and kids – features the distinctive township-inspired prints. Items are available online, or via the popular Township® retail outlet in The Watershed, South Africa’s premier shopping destination for African craft and design, located at Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront; and through a number of global stockists.