Shimmering fabrics
Draped in their diri, Djiboutian women dress the streets of Djibouti with their radiant beauty. In the same way as the African boubou
, this colored fabric surrounds the body and allows to "play hide-and-seek" with the eyes of others, to use the shadow and the light. The local commercial fibre being what it is, it is decided that such pattern or such color goes out of fashion very quickly, in one week sometimes, which obliges to renew frequently the wardrobe. A stroll through the Djibouti market will allow you to admire all the colours and the elegance of this very popular city garment. And why not buy one of these beautiful fabrics and go through the tailor for a garment to your taste and custom. The fouta is a long loincloth tied on the hips and worn by men. The term is used in Arabic-speaking countries and in those of the Eastern Mediterranean. The garment can range from a simple towel to an embroidered silk fabric. Its archetypal pattern is the stripe. According to some specialists, its origin is prior to the expansion of Islam, and would be on the side of India. The term fouta is today attributed to all that resembles of near or far to a sarong or to a loincloth. It is the clothing of the wellbeing and the elegant relaxation which one puts on while returning from work, the weekend or at the time of the qat.Spices, perfumes and incense
Perfumes and incense are part of the daily life of Djiboutians. In all houses, shops and even restaurants, embers melt pieces of incense (usually myrrh) which perfume the rooms. Djiboutians also take special care to perfume themselves, their clothes and their hair with the smoke that fixes the odors. Many shops sell concentrated oils and incense resins of varying quality, which can be very expensive. Chemchem and jasmine leaves are also available to perfume women's closets and blouses.
As for spices, the Indian influence is strong. Turmeric, cumin, cardamom and others bring their perfume to many dishes, and especially to these red sauces so fragrant, which accompany meats, rice and pasta. In Djibouti's market, you will please your eyes and your nostrils by strolling among the spice sellers. If you like spicy food, it's time to stock up!Wood, metal, palm fibers..
Palm tree fibres are used to make many woven objects. The Djibouti women make traditional mats, trays (which are used to sort grain), coloured baskets, bags and hats. Embroidery and pottery are also part of the local craft industry. Wood and metal work is reserved for men who make kitchen utensils, carved sticks, traditional knives and daggers. Traditionally, the nomads also work with skin to make sandals, bags and gourds.
