Printed Sneakers @ Zara

Currently on sale at Zara is this pair of printed sneakers that I had to have them when I saw them.

They are your standard low top type trainers but with a is striking upper design similar to that found on found on Kitenges of east and central africa. I bough them simply because they remind me of Africa.

For those readers who do not know what a Kitenge is, it is an African garment similar to sarong, often

worn by women wrapped around the chest or waist, over the head as a headscarf, or as a baby sling.

Kitenges are similar to kangas and kikoy, but are of a thicker cloth and have an edging only on a long side. 

Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Sudan are some of the African countries where kitenge is worn.

In Malawi, Namibia andZambia, kitenge is known as Chitenge. They are sometimes worn by men around the waist in hot weather. In some countries like Malawi, Chitenges are never worn by men.

Kitenges (plural vitenge in Swahili; zitenge in Tonga) serve as an inexpensive, informal piece of clothing that is often decorated with a huge variety of colors, patterns and even political slogans.

The printing on the cloth is done by a traditional batik technique. Many of the designs have a meaning. A large variety of religious and political designs is found as well as traditional tribal patterns. 
The cloth is used as material for dresses as well.

These spring/ summer trainers are a homage to the african cloth and are worth snapping up before they are gone for good. 
Perhaps I should have a matching t-shirt made or would that be overkill? I will keep you updated.