This weekend I was thinking about an interesting conversation I had with a friend from the Mountain Kingdom of Lesotho few years ago about the country’s people and culture. I was more interested in the blankets which I have seen Basotho men and women wearing. She explained that the blanket is a status symbol and a token of cultural identification. The blankets are gifted for occasions such as birth, initiation ceremonies into adulthood and marriage.
Beside it being a symbol of culture and pride of its people, the Basotho blanket is also an essential daily protective garment against the bitter Lesotho winters. Men usually wear the blanket as a cape, while women tend to wrap it around their waists or their body and fasten it at the shoulders.
I have seen these Basotho blankets trending on the world stage in the last few years. Fashion giants such as Burberry and Louis Vuitton have turned these tribal blankets into fashion accessories by introducing a series of capes, jackets and shawls for both men and women.
From a traditional blanket to catwalk
The high street outlets have also adapted the trend with a variety of blanket wraps this winter. Unlike the traditional firmer woollen Basotho blanket, most high street blanket wraps are made from much lighter synthetics but are nevertheless cosy and warm.
They also come in many different colours, so they go with outfits of any colour. If you want to add some tribal colours and warmth to your winter accessories this year, get yourself a blanket wrap!
Is there pressure for loved ones to be extra romantic on just one day of the month just because the world is telling them to do so and they feel obliged?
Valentine’s Day is about love so to those in love, enjoy time with your loved ones and to my single friends, spread the love with family and friends. Let love be in the air everyday not only for one day. Happy St Valentine’s Day!
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