Our Story
Ancestral Cloth is almost 5 years in the making. As an artist and designer I always knew I wanted to build a brand for people like me who loved to express their personality and interests through fashion. As an introvert, fashion became my way of communicating with the world. It was a way for me to began to connect and build relationships with people. I loved how my looks could be a conversation starter or make a bold statement, without me having to say a word.
When I created my Asase Yaa tee I was inspired west African culture in which the earth was worshiped as a great mother goddess. I wanted to create an image that highlighted the divine feminine and the power of creation.
My earthseed hoodie is a love letter to my favorite author, and ancestor Octavia e. Bulter. Her novel Parable of the Sower is my favorite of hers. The quotation I used comes from the journals of the main character. Change is inevitable making it the only constant in life. I combined this quote with the Andikra symbol Mmere Dane (time changes) which symbolizes the transitory nature of all things.
I have gone from sewing my own clothes at home in Connecticut, studying at the fashion institute of technology in New York city, to an eye opening job in fast fashion all to come back to what my soul calls me to do. As I continue to express myself in new ways I am grateful for anyone that my designs resonate with.
Peace and Blessings,
- Tahirah, Creator of Ancestral Cloth