African Street Style: A Vibrant Cultural Expression
What makes African street style so unique? Designers and stylists are pushing boundaries with their colorful streetwear, fusing traditional elements with contemporary influences. Pictured: Casablanca, Morocco – Sofia El Arabi, designer for label Bakchic.
“The fashion and street style culture in cities like Lagos, Johannesburg, Nairobi and Casablanca are incredible at the moment”, says Fashion Cities Africa author Hannah Azieb Pool. Over 40 designers, trendsetters, and stylists in these major African cities were interviewed about their style.Yves Saint Laurent’s 12-acre botanical garden remains one of Morocco’s most visited sites. Born in Algeria, the designer found inspiration in Marrakesh. Fashion absorbs Western, African, and Islamic influences.Pictured: Safae Bennouna is a fashion designer for He.Do. “I make simple pieces with powerful embroideries from Rabat and Fes.” Amine Bendriouich, designer for fashion label Couture & Bullshit, better known as ‘AB-CB’. His unisex collections are iconic among Morocco’s younger generation.
African Fashion Landscape
Kiongera Ndugire, a stylist and freelance model working in Nairobi, highlights the dynamic use of industrial fabrics to create modern feminine clothing.
Africa’s fashion scene is vibrant and eclectic, characterized by unique blends of traditional styles with modern sensibilities. For example, Lagos is known for its flamboyant outfits, where women often mix African prints with Western attire. This fusion showcases a celebration of cultural diversity.
Laduma Ngxokolo, founder of knitwear label MaXhosa by Laduma. His brand celebrates dark skin tones contrasted with vibrant hues, emphasizing color diversity.
Celebrating Local Designers
Moreover, local designers are gaining international recognition. It’s essential to acknowledge the role of new online publications that raise awareness about African brands. Designers like Anisa Mpungwe have participated in global fashion weeks and continue to gain traction.
Anisa Mpungwe’s brand Loin Cloth & Ashes has made a significant impact in the fashion industry, successfully participating in various prestigious fashion events.
In conclusion, Africa’s fashion landscape is thriving, showcasing a remarkable blend of tradition and modernity. The future looks promising as new talents emerge, reshaping the cultural narrative through fashion.
