Africa Style

AFRICA STYLE

If Supermodel Naomi Campbell can ambitiously imagine a Vogue Africa, then why can’t the powers that be make that wish come true any sooner? Change happens somewhere at the end and the beginning of the red carpet. This year, the Last Unicorn Actress Tiffany Haddish arrived at an event decked out in a custom Habesha dress and matching cape to honor her Eritrean roots, plus the blockbuster hit Black Panther made everyone go to the theaters in full on cosplay, the re-awakening of the cool kunta kinte clothes is lit. It’s about time this narrow-minded culture came to terms with their elitist subcultures. You can’t just steal what you want and call it McDonalds so that everyone will like it. Zara can’t sell Native American head scarves photographed on all white models and call it diversity. That’s why designers from Mali, Kenya, and Nigeria are trending with their refreshing designs. Bloggers and influencers have done their fair share of calling brands on their BS. The internet, has proven that the continent is more than that of what was previously portrayed. The New Africa fashion is a continent full of sustainability opportunities. Because the industry doesn’t involve lots of players, it’s easy to track their production flow. Linda Murithi, who

is the founder of Core Fashion Kenya, is focused on showcasing new designers at her annual fashion show. The event attracts sponsors like M.A.C. and US/U.K. Retail buyers are already attending the event to scout new trends for their stores. She says that designers in Kenya may be small-scale but their aesthetic is global. They face parallel challenges that European based upcoming brands struggle withon-time order delivery, brand identity, etc. However, Murithi says it won’t be that hard to adapt to, afterall the landscape is pretty much built for a sustainable production process. Here’s who’s been on VSZ’s radar: (NIGERIA) Andrea Iyamah: It’s like each swimwear piece is dedicated to a certain personality. Nigerian born, Canadian Andrea Iyamah’s 2018 summer collection is nothing short of paradise vibes. There are long sleeve one and two pieces that are made for yacht flexing. All her pieces include vibrant patterns with intricately placed cutouts that mold the best body parts. The Kenya one-piece is both seductive and tribal and all the high-waisted bikini bottoms are like a one-size fits all type of shape. Aside from swimwear, Andrea Iyamah also designs bridalwear for the modern and elegant bride. For more go to: www.andreaiyamah.com.

Mimi Plange

(GHANA) Mimi Plange: Inspired by African Art and Architecture, Plange’s collections are all about Mimi’s world. Her clothing is for the chic businesswoman who likes her cocktail parties, even on a Monday. Her dresses can easily be paired with a fresh pair of Air Force 1s for a modern breakfast at Tiffany’s look, or a strappy pair of heels. Mimi Plange has been worn by celebrity actresses Gabrielle Union and Viola Davis. www.mimiplange.com

PEOPLESFROMBARBADOS

(BARBADOS) Eyewear : PEOPLES- FROMBARBADOS is a sunglass brand that was founded by optician and native Bajan Alicia Hartman and her love for luxe eyewear. VSZ first spotted the shadiness at Nikki Beach Club in Barbados, located off of Princess Highway. The physician and eyewear designer was inspired by Japanese design techniques and principles for her first collection. They are ultra light and are created from recyclable steel. These glasses are next level and they don’t come cheap. Each sleek PEOPLESFROMBARBA- DOS shade are easy to wear from casual to Carnival. By the way, did you know that Barbados just elected their first female Prime Minister, the honorable Mia Amor Mottley? Now that’s girl power.