I met Doris from Ichiakor Designs a few weeks ago at the Southern Women’s Show here in Richmond, while I was helping my mom sell Turkish Towels. I was immediately drawn to the colorful fabrics and all the TLC that I could just tell went into making each piece.  After years of watching her mother sew, when Doris was expecting her first child, she sewed her a pillow.  From there she created nursing cloths and diaper covers and from there she became inspired to make accessories and start a business with African fabric that she had at home. Aside from making things from her daughter, Doris has branched out into clutches, bow-ties and hair accessories, using advice and feedback that she has received from clients. She even does custom orders, where you chose your piece and the fabric you want and you can be assured that she has made it specially for you! I have found that there is always something special about truly handmade goods.

When asked about her inspiration, she explains that in West Africa people use these fabrics to create full outfits, but she “thought it would be great to use this fabric to create items that we use in our everyday life to add a little flair and pop!”  If you ask me, she has done an amazing job doing just that.  I picked out this clutch along with a matching bow tie for my husband (cheesy, but I just could not resist!) and I love the personality that it adds to my originally simplistic look.  So head to her site, check out the beautiful fabrics and become a part of this special design community.

Ps. how amazing is this LBD / Slip Dress from Top Shop? It is perfect for any occasion. It can be dressed up (I wore it to a wedding last weekend) or dressed down with fun sandals or booties. Did I mention that it’s under $60 and comes in 5 more colors? Trust me, you need it.

Clutch, Ichiakor Designs. Cross Back Slip Dress, Top Shop. Louie Booties, Sam Edelman. Lafayette Sunnies, Elizabeth and James (also seen here, here). Necklace, Gorjana. Ring, Ippolita (similar). Choker, Forever 21.

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