This Just In: Lemlem Pre-Fall 2011

Social do-gooder Liya Kebede's Lemlem packs a punch this fall, continuing its tradition of shifting focus back to handwoven Ethiopian fashion art. Colours are anything but typical autumnal hues, with neon threads running through ponchos and scarves as well as a new range of oxford shoes (a collaboration between artisans in Guatemala and Ethiopia; $340). Shop Liquorice's pick?

A sunny disposition for autumn, thanks to the colours and print of the Leli scarf.

Ready? Get in on the action here.

- SLiq

NEW IN: LEM LEM SPRING 2011

Liya Kebede's Lem Lem Spring collection features ponchos, wraps, dresses, skirts and accessories all hand woven in Ethiopia by locals. We love the casual, slouchy mood, Liya's conscious effort to preserve tradition and art, and the global appeal of simultaneously simple and intricate pieces. Discover and shop here.

- SLiq

Who Wore What: Liya Kebede in LemLem

Liya Kebede at A Tribute To The Models Of Versailles wearing Lem Lem Poncho

The first thing that probably comes to mind when one thinks about Liya Kebede is super model - and perhaps all-round super woman comes a very close second. Following a trip back home to Ethiopia in 2007, Liya founded Lem Lem - a label of ethically-produced pieces that keep the tradition of weaving alive in Ethiopia:

Supermodel / actress and World Health Organisation's Goodwill Ambassador for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health, Liya Kebede discovered that traditional weavers in her native country of Ethiopia were losing their jobs due to a decline in local demand for their goods and wanted to do something about it. Recognizing the beauty, quality and historic significance of their work, Liya started Lemlem in 2007 as a way to inspire economic independence in her native country and to preserve the art of weaving...[Lem Lem]

The Handmade Process

Today, Lem Lem's handmade goodness has made its way all over the world and is stocked in several stores and online at Barneys, J.Crew, Les Nouvelles, Lem Lem and Net-a-Porter (coming soon).

Lem Lem's Kalkidan Poncho

At Shop Liquorice, there's a special place in our hearts reserved for brands than not only reference Africa in their work and produce their pieces in Africa, but also brands that preserve traditions and cultures unique to the continent. We're excited about Lem Lem -- are you?

XO

Photos courtesy of:

YBF

Lem Lem

throwback: liya kebede for the new york times [2007]

absolutely love these images of liya kebede from a 2007 new york times style spread titled "african queen". while the use of outstanding statement jewelry and print is how africa-inspired fashion is now often portrayed, we can't help but adore the charm liya lends to these photos.

have a great weekend!

xo