one of a kind pieces for an exclusive collection
The exclusive collection to benefit OAfrica, is available to shop online exclusively on YOOX’s destination for responsible fashion. Part of the proceeds will be used to protect and assist children in emergencies in Ghana, West Africa.
The iconic Papusse slippers have been interpreted with authentic African wax prints, worked back to rich velvet for their luxurious details and finishings. The motifs have intentionally not been placed, in order to make each individual pair one of a kind. The finest fabrics have been sourced from Ghana, printed with traditional techniques: the design is printed onto the cloth using a wooden stamp with wax resin before dye is applied.
The motifs have a unique symbolic meaning, related to colors and patterns.
the Rayuwa print motifs
close up detail from the Odeshe print
The Odeshe print represents abundance and its large scale blue motifs against a deep red background are reminiscent of wild sea creatures.
The Rayuwa print, fun and vibrant, represents the circular nature of Life: green is symbol of renewal and growth, as seen in plants; blue refers to a pure spirit and harmony; red is believed to hold protective power and stands for passion.
Part of the proceeds will benefit OAfrica, a non-profit organization developing programs and projects to help vulnerable children and their families in Ghana, West Africa.
OAfrica was born in 2002 thanks to Lisa Lovatt Smith – then Fashion Director of Spanish Vogue magazine and design-photography established author – who during a volunteer trip to Ghana, was shocked by the terrible conditions of children living in orphanages. The experience affected Lisa so much that she quit her job, moved to Ghana in order to take action and founded OAfrica «so that no child has to ever grow up in unsuitable conditions, without hope and a future». For sixteen years, OAfrica has been running projects in Ghana to help children in need due to abandonment, neglect, trafficking, in order to give them the opportunity to grow up with the love of a family, go to school and develop their full potential for a better future.
Launched in 2009 on Earth Day, YOOXYGEN is YOOX’s destination for responsible fashion. Thanks to collaborations with international organizations, including Green Cross International, and projects developed with designers and influencers such as Vivienne Westwood, Livia Firth and Amber Valletta, YOOXYGEN stands for responsible fashion worldwide.
Year 2017 represents a major milestone for YOOXYGEN, with the announcement of a partnership with The Parsons School of Design, which will promote sustainable fashion practices through education and special projects.