It's a must at anniversaries, births and funerals. Such fabrics are widely available in both the clamoring outdoor markets and chic shops of Abidjan and are now found on fashion runways in Paris and New York. Such fabrics are widely available in both the clamoring outdoor markets and chic shops of Abidjan, which is renowned for its cloth trade. And now they are found on fashion runways in Paris and New York. The striking designs and rich hues of wax-printed cottons are selling like mad in the West.
Hot wax seals the image, which is dyed or painted the desired colors.
Demand soars with changes in the political climate, the biggest orders coming for elections and official visits by dignitaries. But the traditional culture of pagne centers around the woman. A future bridegroom wouldn't dare propose marriage without a couple of gift-wrapped pieces along with the customary bottles of gin. Thus clothed, the women are ready for their traditional roles as lover, wife, mother and homemaker. That's why most young women shed their modern clothes as they grow older.