September marks the second half of the year and the start of a new semester! Improve your performance with a renewed sense of purpose.
Hello! Even though it's September, the hot weather continues and I'm sure many of you are feeling a bit sluggish.
However, September marks the start of the second half of the year, and for students, the start of a new semester! Don't you feel like starting afresh and on the right foot?
Today, I'll tell you the secret to starting afresh.
Tip 1: Reassess your wardrobe when the seasons change
It's almost time to change out the cotton T-shirts and dresses you've worn through the hot summer. But wait! Before that happens, why not try creating some autumnal styling using the items you already own?
In particular, did you know that many African fashion and ethical items can actually be used regardless of the season?
For example, bags made from traditional Nigerian fabrics and sisal bags from Kenya go perfectly with autumn and winter outfits.
African fabric skirt
Tip 2: Use your personal color to create your own style
With the new season upon us, it's a good idea to take a fresh look at the colors that suit you best. Get a skin-based diagnosis of whether you have warm or cool skin tones, and then find the perfect color for you from the vibrant colors of African goods.
The bold and beautiful colors that characterize African clothing and traditional attire mean that there is a color to suit any skin tone. Get inspired by the functional and beautiful designs of arid zone clothing and incorporate them into your everyday fashion.
Tip 3: Stay stylish and sustainable, and feel good.
With the second half of the year starting and the new semester underway, why not try to get in touch with new values through fashion?
Fair trade bags and upcycled accessories are items that kill two birds with one stone, allowing you to enjoy fashion while also thinking about the global environment and the people who make them. Upcycled earrings and accessories made with beads will add a unique touch to your usual outfits.
Fairtrade Colombian Wayuu Bag (Mochila)
Tip 4: Choose the right materials for a comfortable autumn
September still has its hot days, so choosing the right material is important. Cotton is a summer staple, but it's actually an excellent material that can be used in the early fall as well. It's breathable and soft to the touch, making it perfect for regulating body temperature during the change of seasons.
On the other hand, polyester is one material that should be avoided during hot weather. The appeal of traditional African textiles and accessories is that they allow you to appreciate the quality of natural materials.
Organic cotton and linen stole
Tip 5: A fresh start! Create a new you with an African bag
If you're looking to buy a new bag to coincide with the start of the new semester or the second half of the year, be sure to consider an ethical bag from Africa!
The appeal of sisal bags
Kenyan sisal bags are made from the natural fiber sisal hemp, making them the epitome of natural products. Lightweight, durable, and most importantly, highly breathable, they're perfect for the still-hot September months. Sisal bags can also be used as basket bags, making them versatile for casual outings and quick shopping trips.
Sisal basket bag
Contributing to society with fair trade bags
Another great thing about choosing a fair trade bag is that you're supporting the fair working conditions of African artisans. Each and every handcrafted bag is imbued with the maker's passion. Having a bag with such a story makes every day outing that much more special.
An African bag that combines functionality and design
Traditional African bags are very functional, as they were born in the harsh arid environment of the region. From sturdy tote bags that can be used for commuting to work, to small shoulder bags that are perfect for walks on the weekend, there is a wide selection to suit your needs.
Bags made from Nigerian and Tanzanian textiles are particularly striking with their vibrant colors and geometric patterns. Incorporating them as an accent into a simple outfit will instantly elevate your style.
Reversible bag made from Nigerian African fabric "Ankara"
New season, find a new you
By learning about the richness of African culture and the potential of sustainable fashion, you're sure to discover a new you. Clothing ideas born from the wisdom of the arid zone and miscellaneous goods born from the diverse cultures of African countries.
In September, the month of a new beginning, why not boost your performance by finding your own ethical fashion and favorite bag? You'll surely discover a wonderful version of yourself that shines from within.
Extra: The much talked about African Hometown Initiative, but what can we do?
Recently, there has been much discussion on social media and in the media about JICA's Africa Hometown Initiative, an initiative to deepen international exchange between Japanese local governments and African countries, such as Kisarazu City and Nigeria, and Nagai City and Tanzania. 
Originally, this was an initiative to strengthen exchanges between local governments in Japan and African countries that had been cultivated through previous projects, but it is unfortunate that misunderstandings arose due to the gap between the messages from local governments and media and those from Japan, resulting in an uproar.
But especially in times like these, don't we want to cherish the connections we can make with Africa on an individual level? That's cultural exchange through ethical fashion and miscellaneous goods. Rather than being swayed by political topics, I want to continue to have closer, warmer exchanges.
Representative Kaoru Tsuji
