There’s an African proverb that says “Greatness and beauty do not belong to the gods alone.” We like to think the author of that little saying was talking about African textiles, which have long featured some of the most stunning patterns and weaves and are favorites of ours for spicing up home decor.
We especially love African patterns that feature bold, repeating geometrics; these give the illusion of movement and “rhythm,” as well as visual texture. Case in point: Annie’s new Mali and Mosi indoor/outdoor rugs. With their contrasting shapes on versatile camel and indigo backgrounds, these rugs might just be our new decorating besties for any room that could use a dash of global glam. We’re also partial to the fringed ends—an extra personality punch—and their ridiculously easy-care weave; just rinse with a hose or in the tub, scrub gently with a bit of soapy water, rinse again, and hang to dry.
But why stop there? Here are some other African inspirations—in indigo, one of the most common colors in African patterns, and one that’s easy to pair with just about any other color—to get you warmed up.
1. Diamond Denim/White Indoor/Outdoor Rug
2. Ikat French Blue Scarf
3. Fresh American Le Tote Navy/Ivory Tote Bag Moyen
4. Mali Indigo Indoor/Outdoor Rug
5. Mosi Indigo Indoor/Outdoor Rug
6. Resist Stripe Indigo Napkin
7. Riviera Voile French Blue Ankle Length Nu-mu
8. Uma Resist Indigo Quilt
Like what you see? Tell us why you love African-style patterns and you’ll be entered to win one of Annie’s Mali indoor/outdoor rugs, size 3’x5′, in the color of your choice! Check out the Rafflecopter entry form below for 4 easy ways to enter! Contest ends on Tuesday, January 14 at 11:59 p.m. EST. View the full details.
Congratulations to our winner, Alina from Michigan!
![MaliCamel2x3[17416]](http://blog.annieselke.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/MaliCamel2x317416.jpg)
23 comments
I love the tribal influences and the trend to blue and white! Would go perfectly in my home. 🙂
These patterns seem to be really popular right now but I believe that they are also the type of pattern that is timeless so it won’t go out of style! Love the blue and white!
I love the beautiful colors and patterns
Really liking the indigo in your new designs.
I love the colors, the patterns, the symmetry, the stories and the history.
I love the pattern play in African textiles, whether it be on clothing, floor covering or bedding!
I love the vibrant colors they have. I also love that it basically matches anything anywhere.
I love them because I think they have a timeless elegance to them.
I love African style patterns because of the symmetry and colors. They seem to bring joy to any space by their simple design. It can be incorporated into any room. 🙂
A fresh , go with everything style that would look fresh and fun in my house
I love the prints because they always add life to a room!
They are always vibrant and unique
i love african style patterns because they are exotic
Because they are unique and beautiful!
Love this — it’s the new chevron/ikat for sure! And much more classic.
African style decor tends to stand out on its’
own merit and adds texture, color and wonderful
design to our home!
Thanks, Cindi
love all, indigo and white my favorite
Love most African Styles!
I like the designs (geometrical)!
Love these patterns! They blend so well with other traditional patterns like florals and stripes, to give just a little modern kick to the combination.
The African designs have such interesting patterns and colors. I love them!
Patterns from African textiles have a spiritual and mythical quality about them. I’ve always felt that African patterns have boldness to them with their symbolic qualities and a rhythmic movement that make them almost instrumental. I love how Annie has modernized the African style patterns in the Mali Collection. The reoccurring patterns and bold beats of the design will make an exciting addition to any home.
For me, African patterns are a great way to bring pattern into a space in a modern, fresh way. I especially love a larger pattern on a rug mixed with a smaller pattern in a complementary color used on pillows to liven up a living space.