Babazeka - A socially aware online store

The Irene Werner label is all about merging fashion consciousness with social consciousness. It's also about the creation of simple, beautifully handcrafted fashion accessories, which have an air of nostalgia and familiarity, yet are fresh and contemporary.

The workshop is situated near the spice market in the hubbub of downtown Durban, where highly talented and skilled craftspeople turn Irene's designs into beautiful pieces.

These craftspeoples' skills have been passed down from generation to generation. The embroidery is a traditional West African technique, whilst the beaded charms and buckles are made by a group of Zimbabwean bead and wire workers.

Fair working opportunities and wages are enjoyed by each person in the workshop. Babazeka loves not only this, but also the products' originality and charm.