I finally have my very own! You know it: the uniform of those who have lived in Africa for a while and been away from a fashion magazine or mall for way too long. I call it the all-you-can-eat-dress because of it’s extraordinary ability to make even the curviest person appear shapeless, which is in part it’s function here: modesty. Now don’t hate because you know I still look good! šŸ™‚
A dear local friend gave this dress for Krismasi and it was a very generous gift as they are expensive. The problem was it was a size XXXL! Now at first I was a bit offended thinking that she thought I was a Mama kubwa (big Mama) but she explained the only way to get a dress long enough for my oddly giant self was to buy a huge size. I had to wait until the used sewing machine a team mate gave me was fixed to take it in about 5 inches on each side (and as you can see it still is plenty big) to even make it wearable. The detail is really pretty and it will be awesome to don the next time I attend a shrehe or harusi (celebration or wedding) (since last time I was not appropriately dressed) . I would only wear the head covering if it was a wedding or other important event but I thought I would give you the full effect. I do not know how the women here wear this many clothes every day with heat, I needed a shower after posing for these pictures.

So be jealous that I have my very own all-you-can-eat-dress and I know the 411 on where you can get one too!

  1. Anonymous says:

    trim off one of hte 5″ seam allowances you now have and make a sash for the dress. It’ll bring your your waist. (if you’re allowed to show that you have one).Gorgeous embroidery

  2. Anonymous says:

    work it, girl!wow, i love all the pics (could Anni be any cuter…love those sunglasses and bandana!)…and i’m so envious of your adventures (and the warm weather!).i think i have a new nickname for myself as i try to stick to my ’09 resolution of losing weight. you can officially call me Papa Kubwa…for the time being, that is :)lots of love to you, Jason, and Anni!xo, JB

  3. Anonymous says:

    Your feet are HOT!

  4. Anonymous says:

    Dolce and Gabanna, eat your hearts out!! As Heidi Klum would say, “Fashion. One day you’re in, the next day, you’re out.”You totally rock Tanzanian fashion!