There has been a lot of debate over some of Matthew Williamson's designs over the internet and in some Ethiopian communities. People everywhere seem to be outraged over the fact that he claims he designed dresses (such as the one above) by using bits and pieces of African designs to come up with it. Honestly, the dresses look 100% Ethiopian made- I would say the only difference is the pair of shoes paired with the dress (which no Ethiopian woman would wear for the sake of dignity and by seeing how conservative most Ethiopian women are). In all seriousness, I don't see what's wrong with him using Ethiopian clothing- as long as he doesn't take all the credit for it (which he hasn't). If anything, every Ethiopian should be proud that their beautiful clothing is being showcased to millions; consider it a means of African tourism stimulation. Mr. Williamson may have just well created an East African phenomenon.
