Without a Walmart or Target at hand, getting clothes in undeveloped countries like Benin is a unique experience. As missionaries, one way that we honor our host country is to assimilate to their clothing standards to the best of our ability. It isn’t required, per sé, but it could be a shock and offense to ignore the accepted ways of life, particularly when it comes to clothes.

I learned quickly that Africans really love to dress to impress if at all possible. I mean – check out these gorgeous ladies! So much color and personality in their choices!

The formality of wearing nice clothes is a show of kindness and solidarity, and for us as visitors, it means that we value their culture. The process of getting these clothes, however, is a bit of an adventure. (I wrote about this many years ago when we first lived in Niger, but its been awhile, so I thought it was time for another quick look!)

Step one: purchase fabric at the market.

Step two: decide what kind of style you want and take it to the tailor.

Step three: Go to the tailor and get measured and wait about one week. This trip, I decided to go to a local sewing school for boys and girls. A Christian man in the community started two such schools to help young people learn a trade that will help them earn a living in the future.

Step four: Go back to the tailor to try on the clothes to make sure they fit. Allow the tailor to adjust them if needed. Then wait while they iron the clothes, and fold them perfectly.

Look at these very practical old-school irons they use! They are really heavy and filled with hot coals. No electricity needed!

Voila! Now get ready to receive loads of compliments whenever you step out.

Do you think this would ever work in YOUR context?

Would you like to wear these colorful, fancy clothes?