Muzungu Sisters: Where Ethical Craftsmanship Meets Global Style

Swahili for “wanderer” or “traveler,” Muzungu Sisters is a brand that beautifully marries conscious consumerism with global aesthetics. Co-founded by globe-trotters and lifelong friends Dana Alikhani and Tatiana Santo Domingo, the brand offers ethically sourced, handcrafted clothing and accessories that reflect their love for travel, craftsmanship, and timeless style.

The idea was sparked by countless requests from friends who admired their globally sourced pieces. What began as personal collections of gypset treasures quickly evolved into a brand with a purpose—connecting artisans to a wider audience while ensuring ethical production and preserving disappearing crafts.

The Journey Begins

“We both share a passion for discovering new cultures,” says Dana. “Muzungu Sisters was born from a desire to promote the work of local artisans, particularly those whose crafts may be endangered. We wanted to present these timeless, season-less pieces to the global market in a way that felt modern and accessible.”

The seeds of the idea were planted in 2009 while both Dana and Tatiana were living in New York. Dana had just completed her Master’s degree and was exploring fair labor practices and global human rights. Tatiana, on the other hand, was passionate about curating artisanal finds during her travels. Muzungu Sisters became the organic intersection of their two visions.

Inspirations & Influences

For Dana, inspiration comes from her heritage, world travel, and global discourse:

“My parents, street style, third cultures, Edward Said’s work on Orientalism, and traditional textiles all influence me deeply.”

Tatiana finds her creative drive in art, music, and the people closest to her:

“Traveling, my family, my friends—those are my main muses.”

Travel Highlights

Both founders are well-traveled, and their favorite destinations reflect their eclectic, curious spirits:

• Dana: Machu Picchu, Peru; Salta and Jujuy, Argentina

• Tatiana: Luang Prabang, Laos; India; Cambodia

Digital & Print Musts

• Dana: Prospect Magazine, The Economist, The New Yorker, Bidoun, Monocle, NYMag, Human Rights Watch, and HandEye Magazine.

• Tatiana: Le Courrier International, National Geographic, Vanity Fair, Purple Diary, The Sartorialist, Spoonfed.

Icons of Style

Their fashion icons are just as worldly and layered as the brand:

• Dana: Talitha Getty, Millicent Rogers, Freya Stark, Bakhtiari tribeswomen (her mother’s heritage), and world leaders in national dress like Hamid Karzai and Evo Morales.

• Tatiana: Talitha Getty, Marianne Faithfull, and Marchesa Casati.

The Muzungu Customer in Three Words?

Curious. Adventurous. Colorful.

A Peek into the Pop-Up

Their holiday pop-up at Mo Café in London’s Momo’s features standout caftans, hand-embroidered clutches, and signature Venetian slippers. Some favorites?

• Tatiana: Pom Pom Mochila bag and the Olympia Le-Tan x Muzungu Sisters Brazil clutch.

• Dana: The Sicilian Basket with red pom poms, Ikat Venetian slippers, and the Iran clutch from the same collaboration.

Style Notes:

• Preferred Footwear

  • Tatiana: “Barefoot.”

  • Dana: “Our Ikat slippers, Aquazzura’s Coachella boots, and Stubbs & Wootton.”

• Finishing Touches

  • Tatiana: “Red lipstick.”

  • Dana: “Sunday Riley face oil, red lipstick, and orange blossom essence from the Marrakech souks.”

Why Muzungu Sisters Is an It Brand

Muzungu Sisters has carved out a niche in the fashion landscape not just for its unique designs but for its unwavering commitment to sustainability, ethical practices, and storytelling through craft. Each piece—whether a hand-woven basket or a hand-embroidered clutch—is made with intention and heart. These are heirloom-quality items meant to be cherished across generations.

By sourcing directly from artisans, the brand champions craftsmanship over mass production. This exclusivity adds to its cult status—attracting discerning customers who value individuality and integrity.

With Dana and Tatiana at the helm—two style icons in their own right—Muzungu Sisters continues to be a reflection of thoughtful luxury, cultural appreciation, and slow fashion at its finest.