The origin of this vibrant cotton fabric is rich in diversity. Originally from India, it was later brought to South Africa by German settlers in 1858. The dyeing process has been modified over time to create a product of exceptional quality and integrity.

In its raw form, the fabric was heavily starched in order to protect it from the damp as it travelled across the ocean in the holds of ships sailing between Europe and Africa.

The Xhosa were the first to adopt the fabric from the settlers and they soon began adapting it to give it the uniquely African feel that it retains to this day. It was the Xhosa women who gave it the name “Shweshwe”, imitating the swishing sound of their skirts as they walked.

The Shweshwe clothing range began by using exclusively shweshwe fabrics but has since diversified to produce its own range of beautiful 100% cotton fabrics.