I was born in New York and raised by Guinean immigrant parents. As the last child of the family I didn't get to experience that "Coming to America" journey that my parents did. I use to wonder what the transition for them and other immigrants from Africa was like. Adapting to the climate change and blending in with society for job placement and assimilation. How long did it take to feel comfortable wearing a colorful headwrap and wax printed dress in public despite the stares from strangers?
The concept of African inspired cold weather wear came to me a few years ago. This sparked an idea to design a head to toe African inspired leather outfit. I designed a red leather shift dress with a mud cloth panel and cowerie beads down the center. To complete the look, I draped the remaining fabric around my head. I collaborated with my friend, photographer Christina Deortentiis to capture the look.
I gathered the images from the shoot and offered it as a made-to-order product on Etsy. Shortly after I received special order requests for custom colorways and fabrications. One of my favorite clients ordered a pink and green faux leather turban to represent her sorority colors. Another client ordered several turbans in earth tones to wear for her trip to Egypt.
In 2023 I re-visited the design. I sought to create luxury African inspired headwear that could be paired with modern apparel. The same headpiece that could be worn with an upscale gown could also pair well with an everyday motorcycle jacket.
Introducing: The Wrapped Crown. The Wrapped Crown is an avant-garde interpretation of the revered African headwrap. Refashioned in a durable draped faux leather and lined with satin. The Wrapped Crown is the staple item of the Fatima C. Souare brand.
What makes the Wrapped Crown special?
DURABLE
Quality craftsmanship is essential in producing a luxury product. The Wrapped Crown is constructed with durability in mind to ensure a long-lasting piece that can be passed on from mother to daughter, sister to sister and friend to friend.
FLEXIBLE
The Wrapped Crown can be molded and tucked as you please. The fabrication has a slight stretch and flexibility. Adjust it to make room for updos or pat it down for a closer fit. Wear it to the front, side or back.
FIT FOR YOU
The Wrapped Crown is available in three sizes to fit 21-26" heads. For the ultimate queen treatment order a custom size. Using a measuring tape, wrap around the widest point of your head and record measurement in inches. Add the measurement to the custom head size field before submitting your order. Atlas, await your very own couture crown.
Shop The Wrapped Crown today in Red, Black and Pink.
