ሰምና ወርቅ ፪፭
Wax and gold ss25
Wax and Gold, or ሰምና ወርቅ pronounced Sem ena Werq in Amharic, is a traditional Ethiopian poetic form in which words carry layered meanings the "wax" as the surface, and the "gold" as the hidden truth revealed through reflection.
This editorial is a meditation on the layered meaning and duality of femininity, soft yet authoritative, structured yet fluid, composed yet unrestrained.
The featured look is a two-piece ensemble crafted from reclaimed silks in layered golden tones. Hand-smocked detailing along the shoulder, arm, and waist speaks to structure, while the gathered skirt cascades with intention. Hair and gemstone headpieces celebrate African heritage, and mixed-metal makeup and jewelry mirror the interplay of light and reflection.
Photographed at Bird Rock Beach in La Jolla, California, where cliffs meet the ocean, the natural setting becomes an integral part of the visual poem.
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Using cloth as words and design to manifest the poetic form Wax And Gold. The ensemble in this editorial speaks to the enigma in Women, warm and nourishing like the sun, yet stand firm with unshakable authority. The Abshir women is power and nurture woven in one.
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Deadstock and recovered silks.
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A profound reverence for Mother Earth stands as the cornerstone of Abshir, manifesting through the meticulous transformation of recovered fabrics, the artistry of upcycling and fabric manipulation.
