Confessions of a Shopaholic: Better Than Harper's...

 So I just moved to Harlem a few months ago, and I'm clearly still finding my way around, getting to know the neighborhoods and of course, the shopping. I happened to be strolling around 116th street on Saturday, and stumbled upon the most amazing African bazaar!

Way better than Harper's (get it?), African bazaars are outdoor shops with stands full of vendors selling everything from authentic African jewelry, to kente cloths and imported fabrics, African masks and sculptures, to handmade bags and shea butter. I was in a fantasy wonderland of sorts, with the smells of incense and imported fabrics surrounding me. Anyway, I stumbled on some really amazing finds...

 Spotted this handmade leather-worked bag at the bazaar. You almost can't call this a bag, it's essentially art. 

Tables were overflowing with wooden bangles, beaded necklaces and colorful knick-knacks. 

And these hand carved wooden stools were just beautiful. I'll need to go back there and pick one up for my place. 

Ever been to a bazaar? Know of any good ones in your area? Soundoff below!

Sick Site Spotlight: ASOS Africa

For those of you faithful followers who remember last year's Sick Site Spotlight on ASOS, you know it's one of my absolute favorite online shops. Well, ASOS has branched off and started an entire new division of the site dedicated to trendy duds crafted and constructed of authentic African prints...

Can I tell you I'm in LOVE! The pieces are absolutely gorgeous AND they have been designed, sourced and produced by community groups in Africa! All workers are trained and paid fairly, which makes this initiative and cause all the more worthy of highlighting.

Here are a few of my fave pieces:

 Printed Harem Pants, ASOS Africa, $84.55

Harems are all the rage this season! Why not pump up the originality in a printed pair. You won't see too many gals stomping the pavement in these babies - only for the brave of heart.

Printed Bikini, ASOS Africa, $42.27

I have some lovely beach vacations planned this summer. Imagine soaking up sun in this bikini, and a wide-brimmed straw hat, with an ice cold Mai-Tai in hand...heaven.

Printed Turban, ASOS Africa, $30.44

For those days you just wanna chill and rock a ponytail. Go from ordinary to over-the-top (but not too much) in a printed turban.  

Printed Jumper, ASOS Africa, $126.82

I think it's the perfect statement piece for spring. I'm always a fan of tribal print - whether it's "trendy" or not. Love celebrating African culture...