At Kindred & Kin, every piece carries meaning. But every now and then, the story behind a collection is so unexpected and so aligned with our vision that it deserves its own spotlight. That’s exactly how our Dakar Market Edit came to life -- born not from a strategic sourcing trip, but from a regular hair-braiding appointment in Atlanta.
I remember sitting in the salon, hours passing as the braids came together and conversation flowed the way it always does. Even though Kindred & Kin curates pieces from all over the world, I’ve always had a deep pull toward African craftsmanship. I’ve traveled across the continent, I wear African fashion often, and I’ve long wanted to share more of its artistry -- baskets, jewelry, bags, ceramics, pottery -- with a wider audience.
Somewhere between sections of hair, I mentioned this part of my vision for Kindred & Kin.
That’s when Binta, my braider, paused with the biggest smile. She told me she was moving to Senegal -- her family’s home -- and immediately offered to connect me with the incredible vendors and artisans of Dakar’s open-air markets. It felt like one of those rare moments where everything just lines up.
A Journey of Countless FaceTime Tours
And so, our unique sourcing journey began. Countless FaceTime tours became our new normal – me in Atlanta, marveling at the sights and sounds through my screen, and Binta, my eyes and ears on the ground in Dakar. She navigated the vibrant chaos of the markets, conversing fluidly with vendors in Wolof and French, translating their stories and the intricate details of their craft directly to me in English.
Binta didn't just show me finished products; she delved deeper. She’d turn her camera to reveal the back-end operations, offering glimpses into where and how these beautiful pieces were brought to life. It was an education in artistry and tradition, unfolding across continents.
Cowries, Coils, and Exuberant Patterns
Among the many treasures, a few pieces truly captured my heart. Anything adorned with cowrie shells immediately drew me in. These small, exquisite shells, once a form of currency, symbolize prosperity, fertility, and protection across many African cultures. To me, they represent a timeless connection to history and good fortune.
And then there was the baskets. Each piece, hand-coiled and meticulously woven, showcased a level of skill that was simply breathtaking. The subtle variations in color and texture spoke volumes of the hands that shaped them.
Other staples that caught my eye were the elegant hand fans and the practical yet stunning cosmetic bags, all brought to life by the exuberant patterns and colors of Ankara fabric. These textiles, often called "African wax prints," are renowned for their bold designs and rich cultural significance, each pattern often telling its own story.
With immense pride, Binta chatted with each vendor, carefully translating their processes and passion. While sometimes a bit difficult to capture every nuance in a live video call, these initial conversations have ignited a deeper desire. We plan to have more in-depth discussions with these incredible creators soon, to truly understand their stories, inspirations, and the intricate details of their work.
A Nod to the Artisans 🧡
This Dakar Market Edit is more than just beautiful products; it's a nod to the many nameless artisans in open-air markets whose exceptional talent and dedication keep the tradition of African craftsmanship and cultural expression alive, with pride. It's about celebrating their skill, preserving their heritage, and sharing a piece of their vibrant world with yours.
We are so incredibly proud to bring you this collection, born from an unexpected connection and nurtured by a shared passion. We hope you feel the heart and soul woven into every single piece.
