The beauty of the Sahel
Prize(s):
Honorable Mention 2026 FASHION DESIGN / Textile: Print design
Company Name:Victoria Grace Fashion
Lead Designer(s) Name(s):Jennifer Ronne
Other Contributor(s):A secure settlemet of Wodaabe women , Peul ethnic group, in the Republic of Niger
Manufacturer Name:The Natitingou manufacturers in Northen Benin Republic
Project Location:Benin Republic, Niger Republic (and possibly Burkina Faso)
Design Status:Concept
Project Description:
We wish to support tribes heavily displaced by terrorism in The Sahel regions and Northern Benin Republic. Using 1. Wodaabe tribal embroidery; a visual language of symbols reflecting their nomadic lifestyle, environment, and social values. 2. Manufacturing in Natitingou, Benin Republic All regions shut down for foreigners to access. We wish to demonstrate their skill and beauty even in a time of pain and displacement
We wish to support tribes heavily displaced by terrorism in The Sahel regions and Northern Benin Republic. Using 1. Wodaabe tribal embroidery; a visual language of symbols reflecting their nomadic lifestyle, environment, and social values. 2. Manufacturing in Natitingou, Benin Republic All regions shut down for foreigners to access. We wish to demonstrate their skill and beauty even in a time of pain and displacement
Project Innovation / Specification:
Specific motifs represent everyday objects and natural phenomena vital to life in the Sahel. Primarily created by women using chain and feather stitches, these geometric patterns are passed down through generations and appear on ceremonial garments like men's tunics and women's wraps. The motifs are commonly seen on tunics for marriage ceremonies, so we selected 2 of our elegant dresses and 2 of our everday wear designs using their motifs, handiwork, embellishments and accessories.
Specific motifs represent everyday objects and natural phenomena vital to life in the Sahel. Primarily created by women using chain and feather stitches, these geometric patterns are passed down through generations and appear on ceremonial garments like men's tunics and women's wraps. The motifs are commonly seen on tunics for marriage ceremonies, so we selected 2 of our elegant dresses and 2 of our everday wear designs using their motifs, handiwork, embellishments and accessories.
Project Sustainability Approach:
Natural and Biodegradable Materials: Traditionally, Wodaabe artisans use hand-woven cotton, strips of textiles such as linen and cotton, and natural dyes sourced from local plants, ensuring the final garments Unlike industrial "fast fashion," the labor-intensive nature of hand-stitching requires a significant investment of time, which naturally limits overconsumption and waste. Women’s Empowerment: In Wodaabe society, women are the primary creators of these intricate textiles Cultural Sustainability - : The geometric motifs used in the embroidery tell stories of families and communities
Natural and Biodegradable Materials: Traditionally, Wodaabe artisans use hand-woven cotton, strips of textiles such as linen and cotton, and natural dyes sourced from local plants, ensuring the final garments Unlike industrial "fast fashion," the labor-intensive nature of hand-stitching requires a significant investment of time, which naturally limits overconsumption and waste. Women’s Empowerment: In Wodaabe society, women are the primary creators of these intricate textiles Cultural Sustainability - : The geometric motifs used in the embroidery tell stories of families and communities
Local and Regional Impacts of the Project:
Wodaabe embroidery has a significant impact on both local and regional scales, serving as a primary marker of identity, a driver of regional trade, and a growing economic asset in the global cultural market
Wodaabe embroidery has a significant impact on both local and regional scales, serving as a primary marker of identity, a driver of regional trade, and a growing economic asset in the global cultural market
Company Name:Victoria Grace Fashion
Lead Designer(s) Name(s):Jennifer Ronne
