Background : The name
Ankara: Ankara Fabric is primarily associated with Africa mainly because of the tribal-like patterns and motifs. Ankara was formerly known as Dutch wax print. The prints reflect African culture and lifestyle. Ankara Fabrics were not created in Africa as you may think, but the concept of "African Tribal Prints" originated in Europe! I love the history of Ankara as it was not
part of African culture traditionally but has now become such a strong part of our creative identity and is used across African fashion, jewelry and home-ware. Tribella: My husband is Italian and gave me the nickname Tribella, or as he likes to explain it, "Beautiful Tribal girl"
I decided to combine the two words to create Ankara Tribella which translate to something which is inspired by Africa but has a modern contemporary edge making it more appealing to a wider audience and showing people from across the Globe that African inspired elements can be for everyone. About the concept:
Ankara Tribella is a store selling contemporary African inspired fashion,accessories and home-ware created by designers and artists across the Globe. Now you can have a touch of Africa right here in UAE. All collections are handpicked by Ankara Tribella Owner, South African born Veronique Cataldo. "I have passion and love for all things which combine modern contemporary art , fashion and lifestyle with traditional African elements. I want to share this passion within the Middle East through the designers i have chosen to represent and provide a platform to through my store." I have spent months interviewing designers who use African elements in their design to add to my collection and to sell at art fairs and markets across UAE. All my designers are highlighted and heralded for their design initiative. I place their names along with each item they have created. I am so proud of what they have achieved!
