Sometimes we want to pay homage to our motherland, but don’t know how to keep up with the fast- moving trends as well as enjoy African designs. Instead of going full on Kitenge- clad, and feeling rather overwhelmed by the patterns and colours, how can you add in that African kick into your outfit in a small, manageable dose? Here are a few easy ways.
Headscarves
Headscarves bring in that stylish, yet trendy component into your look. They allow you a chance to play around with patterns while enjoying an achievable level of pizzazz and charm.
Take a look at how Nandi Mngoma pulls it off. It is a simple, yet beautiful way to get that African touch, and add interesting patterns to your ensemble. They can also be used conveniently when you’re having a bad hair day! (Photo is courtesy of Instagram, @nandimngoma)
One piece of Kitenge goes a long way.
You may feel overwhelmed wearing kitenge design from head to toe, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get a little taste of it and enjoy it too. African print is truly authentic and representative of our continent’s fashion, and can really make your casual outfit trendier.
Check out how Vanessa Mdee adds a splash of colour into her outfit, making it playful and interesting. Adding that African flare doesn’t take away from her sense of style. (Photo is courtesy of Instagram, @VeeMoney)
Wearing African jewelry
African jewelry comes in various diverse forms, from beaded bangles and earrings, to necklaces, rings and wrist cuffs that have intricate, delicate designs and patterns on them. A well placed piece of African jewelry on an otherwise typical/ casual outfit can put in just the right amount of character into the look.
STL effortlessly stuns in a detailed African neck- piece and beaded earrings, which complement the rest of her clothes and add a splash of brightness. (Photo is courtesy of Instagram, @stellamwangi)
African inspired shoes
Footwear that is inspired from typical African designs can be really striking. Flashy shoes with African prints, beading or patterns can take an outfit to a whole new level. Clothes that may have been uninteresting or simple now look more sophisticated and thought out.
Take a look at Victoria Kimani looking absolutely breathtaking in those colourful, printed heels. (Photo is courtesy of Instagram, @victoriakimani)
Having beads in your hair
For this, you don’t really have to go out of your way. A couple of wooden beads will be inexpensive and accessible. Adding them to your hair or braids will create a gentle touch of style and give that African feel you may be seeking.
Check out Wangechi looking pretty and simple with just a few beads on her braids. They are very subtle, uncomplicated and deliciously noticeable, without being over the top. (Photo is courtesy of Instagram, @WangechiKenya)
Those are five easy tweaks you can make on your everyday outfits, in order to add a little African style into your look. Remember, it’s not only about how you dress, but also about how you feel and act. Keeping in mind our beautiful culture, values and principles, we can be truly African by being a loving, respectful yet diverse people with a lot more than physical appearance to offer.
The featured loafers can be acquired from the House of Chihera.