Danaqa

I passed this little shopfront a few weeks ago on my way to Ladbroke Grove tube station. In the front window was a large orange leather bag with an amazing burnished bauble dangling down the front. Of course, calling the leather by an obligatory color wheel name really doesn’t do it justice. That, and the fact that I’m female and have to express color via sexy monikers like, slate, cornflower, and aubergine. So, let’s say the bag was more of an umber, a burnt umber. Yes, that’s much better.
Anyhoo, I saw it, but didn’t have time to pop in and have a look. But I didn’t forget the pretty leather bag. This weekend I walked by once again, and it was still there. I had to go in for a closer look. The shop itself is small and cluttered with exotic looking fabrics, beads, bangles, and leather goods. The shopkeeper turned out to be the owner, and explained to me that premise of his store. He stocks unique items handmade by women’s groups across Africa and the Middle East. I saw a beautiful wallet made in Egypt, and learned the bag I had my eye on was made by a tribal woman in southern Ethiopia. The owner sources their wares directly and was even able to tell me the name of the woman, who made the bag (he lived in the region for 4 years prior to moving back to London last year).
Every part of the bag, from the beautiful leather to the fabric lining is sourced and produced within Ethiopia. The coolest part, however, has to be the brass bangle. He explained to me, that in this war-​torn region, the women go about collecting the spent, brass, shell casings and then melt them down to fashion jewelry, that they then sell. That’s where this piece got its start. It’s quite heavy and just lightly adorned with scroll works around the edge. That sealed the deal for me; I had to have it. It was a tad pricey, but definitely worth supporting a cause. He also gave me eight per cent off for joining the mailing list. They’ll be doing some events in the coming months, that I will be more than happy to attend.
If you’re looking for a unique piece for yourself or as a gift, and want to support a great cause, come check this place out. I’m looking forward to my next purchase already!