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BY Charles Ayitey, 4:40am May 13, 2016,

Bazin Fabric Showcases Mali Fashion

by Charles Ayitey, 4:40am May 13, 2016,

Models Darhat Diallo (l) and Oumou Soumare pose for a picture in bazin outfits made by designer Barros Coulibaly in Bamako, Mali, October 21, 2015. Gasps of delight filled the convention hall as models, decked out in Mali's signature bazin fabric in crimson reds, indigoes and neon greens, strutted the catwalk while musicians from across the West African nation provided the soundtrack. Bazin, a polished, heavy cotton fabric with a distinctive sheen, is extremely popular across the region and is worn at almost all formal occasions in Mali. "If you show up to a marriage without wearing bazin, you might as well not show up at all," said Baba Sereme, a designer known for his bazin suits for men, with hand-dyed elaborate colour schemes. REUTERS/Joe Penney PICTURE 23 OF 25 FOR WIDER IMAGE STORY "SHINING ON THE STREETS OF BAMAKO". SEARCH "BAZIN" FOR ALL IMAGES. - RTS7QN7

Credit: Joe Penney

For lovers of casual wear, the bazin fabric can also be the choice for informal outings and occasions. Unlike choosing a pair of jeans and a polo shirt, models Darhat Diallo and Oumou Soumare show that a casual traditional bazin gown is the best choice for young couples.

Model Awuah poses for a picture in a bazin outfit made by designer Mariah Bocoum Keita in Bamako, Mali, October 21, 2015. Gasps of delight filled the convention hall as models, decked out in Mali's signature bazin fabric in crimson reds, indigoes and neon greens, strutted the catwalk while musicians from across the West African nation provided the soundtrack. Bazin, a polished, heavy cotton fabric with a distinctive sheen, is extremely popular across the region and is worn at almost all formal occasions in Mali. "If you show up to a marriage without wearing bazin, you might as well not show up at all," said Baba Sereme, a designer known for his bazin suits for men, with hand-dyed elaborate colour schemes. REUTERS/Joe Penney TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY PICTURE 20 OF 25 FOR WIDER IMAGE STORY "SHINING ON THE STREETS OF BAMAKO". SEARCH "BAZIN" FOR ALL IMAGES. TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY - RTS7QNW

Credit: Joe Penney

With a country well-known for its rich culture and tradition, designer Mariah Bocoum Keita of Bamako has succeeded in creating cuts that are suited for any festival with the bazin fabric.

Last Edited by:Deidre Gantt Updated: May 13, 2016

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