Despite references to animals, body painting and other styles of traditional tribes, the african fashion it is much more conceptual than one might imagine and that was what enchanted some stylists to raise the flag and take African fabrics to the catwalks of the main world fashion weeks. The drawings on the pieces go far beyond just decorations, they have a personal interpretation of the region that in western eyes may go unnoticed but not despised for that reason. They are beautiful prints and with amazing looks.
African clothes have a touch of tradition both in their models and prints. Many of the designs are not just graphics but refer to some ancient tribes, they are rock prints. Many of the symbols on the dresses are linked to ancient proverbs of oral culture. African fabrics are one of the greatest expressions of local culture and self-affirmation. In other words: while Spanish women dress to join a social group, a tribe, African women show the difference in their clothes, their personal expression because they are already part of a tribe.
In Brazil they have become fashionable because they are really pretty and easy to match both for day and night use. There are those who mix Western styles and our favorite traits like the pencil skirt with a beautiful African fashion blouse and create a very cool look.
African fashion for work
The strong point of african fashion it's really the print and it's with them that you should work very well to put together your combinations. Being a blouse of this trend, bet on neutral pants, skirts or shorts with one of the colors of the print or differential but always in a single tone so as not to sin by exaggerating in tones.
African dresses tend to have straight cuts and much more discreet necklines than European models, a good choice then to use in your work look. Attention should be redoubled with these models because they cut straight because they do not help with the curves and can make skinny women even thinner and without a waist.
Sober tones are the most suitable for the corporate environment because they convey seriousness and tranquility. You don't have to give up african fashion at work, just prefer more closed prints and without so many colors.
Pants are great for experimenting with different combinations. And since there's already a print on the legs, take the opportunity to put on your black suit, a social blouse in a neutral color and rock it.
Blouses in African fashion trends
Matching blouses and pants, skirts or shorts has some very simple rules to learn:
- if the blouse is printed, a bottom part of a single color is the most suitable
- baggy blouses ask for tight pants or skirts so you don't gain measurements
It's just adjusting the model according to your measurements. Traditionally the blouses of african fashion they are very loose like tribal clothes, more comfortable too. These models ask for tight pants and not too loose if you are a plus size user so as not to gain extra measurements. Thick arms also cannot receive wide-sleeved blouses.
Asymmetrical blouses are in fashion and value the hips, and with this piece, don't wear loose or draped skirts.
african fashion dresses
Wearing printed dresses has long ceased to be a spring summer fashion tradition. And with the trend of African prints, take advantage of the wave and use it in all seasons with the proper proportions and according to your body. There is a wide variety of models and styles and you will definitely find one that fits your style.
Shorts – one of the secrets of african fashion is to let her shine by herself. Combinations of other styles go well, but sometimes a short dress with a beautiful print and taking advantage of the geometry of the designs is a great indication to wear. Use short, knitted models for informal events and finer fabrics for social parties.
Which shoes to wear? The answer is: it depends. The ideal is always a shoe in a single color and without details because there are already many in the dress. Black heels are always a good choice, but there are more options like gladiator sandals with shorts, ballet flats, peep toe, flats for knitted models, among others.
Long dresses – when the party is formal, long dresses show all their grace and it's not complicated to choose. A african fashion Traditional calls for the super long ones, dragging on the floor, which many were missing, right? Tails are common even on knitted dresses and are great for wearing gold and silver jewelry.
When in doubt which accessory goes best, take advantage of the gold in your jewelry box. With the gold color there is no mistake, it matches with anything and any pattern. Maxi bracelets are a super trend to match this style.
Beautiful dress for a party, isn't it?
Did you know? We have some stores specialized in african fashion in Brazil. In São Paulo there is the Xongani studio of the stylists Cris and Ana Paula Mendonça.
