Fashionably in Season

Since we are on the topic of “Generational Wealth,” let’s talk about the amazing fashions and fashionable statements that have been passed down - from one generation to the next, within our community. The African-American community ranks as the highest consumer when it comes to fashion. Impressed with style and brand recognition, our community has single-handedly been responsible for some of the most popular brands gaining such high reputations. Unfortunately, we have also supported brands that did not have us in mind when they planned their “design,” blatantly discriminating against our coin, though willingly depleting our pockets. Yet, we love to have the latest and trendiest- with our emotional, social, and economic status often measured by our garments.

This ideology stems from something far more greater than love for Fendi or Gucci. Our rich heritage is rooted in the beautiful continent of Africa, where our ancestors wore the greatest in textiles /fabrics and jewels. The textiles of Africa had and still have distinctive styles, dyeing methods, and decorative patterns that distinguished tribes, families, and status. In this day in age, fashion in our community has become more expressive and has even reached back into African patterns and styles. “We Buy Black” promotions have been in motion, more so since the inception of “Black Lives Matter,” yet we still have a long way to go in our support of Black designers and retailers. Our love for mainstream, popular brands is still there, but most importantly, our style and “swag” when it comes to dress will forever be felt, noticed, and admired.

This fall and winter are reminiscent of the 1940s, old-time Harlem “sharpness,” combined with 1960’s/70’s color blocking methods, mixed with modern-day expression. Not forgetting, overall inclusivity where retailers have finally begun to meet the needs of all body types and gender preferences. This fall and winter have brought out the classiest fashion trends, from layered looks, amazing coats, and boots. This season, the color palette has included bright colors in conjunction with the general fall/winter palette, embracing our ever-popular browns, greys, oranges, reds, and plums. Pattern blending and pops of color with textured accessories are definitely a Fall and Winter trend for both men and women alike.

This fall and winter season, be daring! Show off and show up with fashionable threads and express yourself! Here are some coveted styles for the season.

This season, layers upon layers present a great look. The layered look is not only stylish but classic. The coat trend for this look is more of a pea coat or wool blend trench. Mixing patterns such as a tweed with denim or wool with leather trim is definitely in. Turtlenecks with cardigans or slim dresses with “shackets” are another way to add to your layered look. This look is quintessential of an old-school “dandy” or debonair lady and gent look.

Winter Wonderland

Winter White is also trending this winter, head to toe. Wearing Winter White from head to toe was a concept that many women wore back in the day of Diana Ross and the Supremes. It’s classy, simple, yet very elegant. A very rich, fashionable look whether worn casually or for a special occasion. Wearing all white in African tradition was and still is a sign of initiation in traditional belief systems, a new Priest or Priestess, or a time of purity.

Color “Pop”

1960/70’s style, Color Saturation has been trending since the summer months and has made its way into Fall and Winter. Wearing single colors from head to toe is the concept of color saturation. Color “Pop” is the concept of wearing colors such as bright reds, fuchsia, purple, and green (which are some of the latest colors this season), coupled with our staple Fall/ Winter palette of browns, greys, and neutral colors. Color Blocking is when you may choose two or more colors and wear them opposite of each other or in conjunction. An example of this is wearing a fuchsia sweater dress, hat, purse, and tights with a pink or fuchsia shoe or boot or the same outfit with a neutral boot -or- the dress with a blue coat, blue heels, and a fuchsia fedora.

At Home and Chill

With so many people sticking to remote work and enjoying being in the comfort of their own homes, retailers came out with loungewear suitable for homework and even video meetings. This season, cozy, warm loungewear options are a must-have, along with embellished loungewear with jewels, leather trim, and in the most fantastic colors. African printed lounge sets have become popular for the season, along with African-inspired wide-leg pants and kaftans.