On my recent trip to Salvador, I learnt a few things about the Afro -Brazilian culture and religion…..and it’s African roots.
The city of Salvador, the capital of Bahia, has the largest population of African descendants, hence the African culture is more prominent there….so I blended very well.
One of the many famous places in Salvador is the city’s historical and oldest centre, Pelourinho, a listed UNESCO World Heritage site. It is here that you can explore the site of the former slave market, with its colourful colonial architecture, pillory and it’s baroque-style churches.
As you stroll around Pelourinho, you will notice Bahai women in traditional attire posing for photos in their sassy headdresses and vibrant skirts. The typical Bahian dress is white lacy top with an enormous bouncy skirt. They look like they are wearing layers and layers of doilies.(Sometimes, instead of white, various bright colours are utilised).
The moment I tried to be one of the local woman!
This is the town’s sense of style and you find this apparel also worn by women serving acaraje, which is a traditional dish.
In Pelourihno, every night is a party. You can find free shows on the street, like drums bands, samba or capoeira circles.
Salvador is extraordinarily beautiful. It’s white sand beaches, the lovely coco trees and warm Atlantic waters give you that heavenly feeling.
The city has beautiful, welcoming and warm people who embrace their country’s culture and heritage. Someone once said, “the best thing about memories is making them”. I will forever cherish the moments I had in this amazing country!
São Paulo street art – Jardim da Luz
One of the highlights of São Paulo was the Museum of Modern Art (Museu de Arte de São Paulo – MASP). The MASP architecture is very interesting. Suspended from two large columns, the building hangs in the air like a large block of concrete – amazing engineering!!
I decided to check what was being exhibited and i was in total awe with what welcomed me. Yes, there were rows and rows of clothes!
For the first time MASP was showing 79 pieces of its Rhodia fashion collection which featured clothes created through a collaboration between artists and designers in the 1960s. This collection in MASP is the only one still remaining.
I was mesmerised by the colourfulness of the collection. A mixture of afro print and a touch of Asian fusion gave the collection a very rich look. These two evening dress were my favourites.
This printed palazzos were also amazing. They were well tailored and the fabric was well weaved. This could be a lovely evening wear if you are bold enough to wear it.
This well presented collection showed that fashion certainly revolves, because what was fashionable in the 1960s is certainly unique and inspire creativity today. Judging from excited faces in the gallery, it will inspire creativity and boost current fashion system.
My trip had no fashion on the agenda but São Paulo unexpectedly brought history of Brazilian fashion to me. What an adventure!!
modelicios 