IWA

2012-02-23T20:08:00.000+01:00

Long time no blog ! I did not quite abandon it though, I've been wandering around here.

Hoping 2012 has been treating you right so far.

Now please share the pages ! And do not hesitate to leave comments, good or bad, I can handle it. Well I think so.

That cover

2012-02-23T20:07:00.002+01:00

Polish model Kasia Struss covers the February issue of Harper's Bazaar España, sporting a blouse from the now famous Burberry Prorsum collection.

Photography: Nicolas Stipcianos, also known as Nico.

www.harpersbazaar.es

Mina Evans

2012-02-23T20:07:00.000+01:00

Ghanaian designer Mina Evans-Anfom presented the looks for her latest collection, Terra Firma, under her very successful, eponymous label.

This line, as the name suggests, takes its inspiration from the Earth, through tie-dye techniques on a colour palette that recalls soil and water. The adornments and the very simple yet elegant cuts provide that luxurious identity that the brand seeks to represent. I like it alot !

And there's a double entendre behind the words "Terra Firma": the designer says about it that it "is Latin for "solid earth" or "firm ground". We wanted to show that we are trying to build a strong foundation as a brand." Looks like they're on the right way.

www.minaevansonline.com

That Model: Nykhor Paul

2012-02-23T20:06:00.001+01:00

Another day, another beautiful Sudanese model.
Meet 22 year-old, 5'11", Red Model Management Nykhor Paul.

Nykhor was born in Sudan, grew up in Ethiopia and moved to Nebraska at 9. While in high school she was signed to Ford Models Chicago; however, at the time, she found herself unable to deal with both school and a modeling career so she gave that opportunity up. She studied biology and psychology in college, but has not completed it (yet), as she went to New York City and was eventually signed with Red Model Management.

Ever since, she's walked down the runway during NewYork Fashion Week for designers such as Betsy Johnson, Farah Angsana, Tory Burch or Catherine Malandrino and B. Michael, been featured in Elle, Glamour, Seventeen or Essence magazine, and was the subject of the latest Mara Hoffman's Resort Swim 2012 campain.

with Eric Puzio, for Gilt group

Betsey Johnson Fall '10

Bebe S/S '12

Nordstrom

Mara Hoffman Swim '12

Payless

Project Runway '12

B. Michael

Rod Malmberg

Sade Williams

Mara Hoffman

2012-02-23T20:05:00.003+01:00

New Yorker Mara Hoffman shows off the lookbook for her Resort Swim 2012 collection, with Sudanese Nykhor Paul.
The designer is used to work with bold graphic prints, inspired by a lot of travelling as well as nature itself. The result is colourful, filmy, Indian or Native American-ish collections. And this one is no exception.

www.marahoffman.com

That editorial: Feminine Mystique

2012-02-23T20:05:00.000+01:00

Emma Summerton captured the high fashion Jourdan Dunn, Anais Mali and Jasmine Tookes are now well-known for, to illustrate this editorial that will be featured in the March issue of W magazine.

Styling by Giovanna Battaglia.

www.wmagazine.com

That Model

2011-08-16T20:04:00.001+02:00

Let me introduce you to Salieu Jalloh, or should I say "re-introduce" because you might have seen his face on many editorials, ad campaigns, runways or on BET's reality show Model City (where I discovered him).

180 Mag - By Shaugn Crawford

Salieu was born and partly grew up in Guinea-Conakry (he is NOT Sierra Leonan as stated everywhere on the Internet !), and was discovered in the streets of NYC by men's agent George Brown, from Red Model Management in 2008.
For the past three years, the 21 year-old have been featured everywhere and has since been labeled the "best black male model" in the industry. And when I say "everywhere", I mean EVERYWHERE. Ads for Benetton, Sean John or Bloomindale; editorials for Vogue, GQ, The New York Times, Arise Magazine, Wonderland Mag, Fiasco Mag, Tommy Hilfiger, Io Donna, Lanvin; runway shows for Y-3, Marc Jacobs, Thom Browne.... Too name a few ! He has got a pretty impressive portfolio, filled with beautiful shots.

And I restrained myself because I could post like 100 pictures of his right now ! Just don't get tired of his face already. I personnally will not, for sure.

Wonderland Mag - By Paul Maffi

Thom Browne S/S '11 - By Benny Horne

Fiasco Magazine - By Zachery Michael

The New York Times - By Richard Phibbs

Fiasco Magazine - By Jason Mickle

Dansk Magazine - By Kevin Mackintosh

Dear New York City readers..

2011-08-15T20:28:00.002+02:00

Visit the current exhibition about Africa through photography, Africolor, at Danziger Projects, including works from Malian Malick Sidibe, South African Lolo Veleko, Italian Daniele Tamagni, Dutch Ruud Van Empel, or American Mickalene Thomas.

You can drop by until September 10th, 2011.

By Mickalene Thomas

Danziger Projects
527 West 23rd Street
NYC
Tel- 212 629 6778

"Africa's definition of global luxury"

2011-08-15T19:59:00.001+02:00

I haven't checked out Jewel By Lisa in a minute. This is their Autumn/Winter 2012 collection, which they presented during the Arise Fashion Week in Lagos, back in March. The title says everything about Ms Lisa Folawiyo's work; she is just too high-fashioned.

Make sure you visit the website and discover the "Global Minimalism Collection 2011" (another name for Summer Collection I believe). Marvelous.

www.jewelbylisa.com

BKFW '11

2011-08-15T18:16:00.001+02:00

Take a look at Boxing Kitten's Fall/Winter collection for this year 2011, modeled by the beautiful Naima Mora (what a nice first name, isn't it ? :p), and photographed by the talented Kwesi Abbensetts.

www.boxingkitten.com

(Ohema) Ohene - Simple as a button

2011-08-14T01:19:00.005+02:00

Talking about details, ladies, get your man one his these Ohema Ohene Kente cufflinks ! Well, I know there are lots of trendy fellas out there so yeah, you won't need your lady to get them for you.
They should make a whole difference on an ordinary shirt.

www.ohemaohene.com

Adjoa Osei

2011-08-14T00:56:00.002+02:00

New designer in town: Adjoa Osei.
A few weeks ago, the London based released an 8-piece collection, Adapt, featuring loose tops and colorful maxi skirts. The aim of this collection is to "explore the different ways that smart/casual wear can be enhanced with African prints".
I've always said that when it comes to fashion, the details make a whole outfit work. And that's precisely what's interesting here: the handwoven elements on each piece.

I'm looking forward to see what Ms Osei has prepared for her winter collection.

Photos by Agata Preyss

www.adjoaosei.com

M.E. Studio / The Plastics

2011-06-12T17:50:00.043+02:00

I already stated in one of my very first posts that Melody Ehsani might be my favorite jewelry designer in the game. Check out the lookbook for her Spring 2011 collection. Dopeness.

www.melodyehsani.com

Burberry it is.

2011-06-12T16:51:00.069+02:00

I just read a french article where they said Burberry paved the way for a new trend that involves Africa and its wax printed clothes, probably driven by the recent uprisings in Arabic countries. *BLANK-FACE* Whoever wrote that either lives in a cave without no Internet nor TV, or just didn't have a clue about what to write.

It did strike me at first when I saw this Burberry Prorsum Resort Collection 2012, because I would have never expected it from THAT company. But I'm glad they did. The pieces are simply beautiful. The bonus would be the menswear: I personally think that part of the market is not exploited enough by African designers.
So huge props to the creative director, Christopher Bailey.

www.burberry.com

Zebra Living

2011-06-10T23:57:00.052+02:00

A modern urbanite, (Zebra woman) celebrates her unique style with Zebra's versatile and affordable 'fashion art' infused with African Spirit. -.

I think this one sentence epitomizes so well Nigerian Ugoma Adegoke's label, that I don't even need to go further with it. Take a look at these two collections and their very simple yet sophisticated pieces, and make sure you visit the website.

The Lagos Dynamo Collection

The Mara collection

www.zebraliving.com

That Editorial

2011-06-10T23:23:00.047+02:00

The June 2011 issue of Vibe Vixen Magazine features model Eva Marcille and her platinum blond ponytail in the desert. She displays Topshop, Prada, American Apparel and YSL. Kudos to those Pierre Hardy Striped Wedges. Gorgeous !

By Robert Hector for Taylor Hector Studios

That Model

2011-06-10T23:11:00.000+02:00

As he is coupled with Jourdan Dunn in the latest Burberry ads, shot by Mario Testino, here is Sacha Mbaye.
I think he is one name we'll hear about on some regular basis from now on.

Sacha is a 21 year-old French model, mixed with a Senegalese father. He did not escape notice last year at Calvin Klein's S/S '10 fashion show. Also he was featured in several editorials, from GQ Style, to Spray Mag and Wonderland, as well as in advertisements for Esprit and now Burberry.

Most definitely a cutie. Watch him out !

Esprit S/S '11

Calvin Klein S/S '10

Wonderland Mag

Esprit S/S '11

GQ Style

M I A

2011-06-10T22:53:00.003+02:00

Well... Just because of the subtitle of this blog, I cannot stop blogging like that.

Thula Sindi - London Fashion Week

2011-02-27T19:57:00.002+01:00

Thula Sindi, one of the most noted designer out there in South Africa, also presented his new collection for the eponymous label.
Here is some tiny reminder of his past one.

Bunmi Koko - London Fashion Week

2011-02-27T19:39:00.001+01:00

Ohww I thought I did publish this one...

'Kaleidoscopia', Nigerian Bunmi Koko's A/W 2011 collection, was all about bright colors and a multiplicity of fabrics, from leather to feather and suede to plastic with plastic masks at times, creating some sort of futuristic Alexander McQueen collection.

And we must give more props to these designers, because they use this big exposure to promote 'Fill The Cup' campaign in collaboration with the World Food Program, against hunger around the globe. The line of T-shirts and accessories should be available at the very end of March.

www.bunmikoko.com

Gloria W. - London Fashion Week

2011-02-22T21:02:00.001+01:00

African designers were very well represented this year in London.
Take Ugandan Gloria Wavamunno, who presented her A/W '11 collection title "Not A Dream, My Soulmate", during "À La Mode" event.
She sticked to wax print, as usual, and worked it out beautifully, as usual. It was also the occasion to spread some message about solidarity and fight against aids.

(Afro) Queen Bee

2011-02-22T19:46:00.001+01:00

When rumors about bleaching her skin are buzzing all over the internet, Beyonce darkens her face for the March issue of L'Officiel Magazine, its 90th birthday issue by the way.

I also read that it was a wrong way to "bring out the African woman inside her", that they could've taken the most of the opportunity to promote African designers instead of just African-inspired YSL and others, et cetera...

Really, is this that important ?! Should I care more ?! Would there be such talking if it was somebody else ?! Some people are so famous and reputed that every single of their moves are criticized when they mostly are innocent. Tough life ! All I can see here is a successful singer impersonating an ebony queen for an editorial, and it is gorgeous. Period.

Sass & Bide - London Fashion Week

2011-02-19T23:22:00.001+01:00

Back in September, I introduced you to this label HERE. Ms Clarke and Ms Middleton presented their collection for this year's Autumn/Winter, during the first day of the promising London Fashion Week.
The ideas are the same, lots of prints, but very colorful this time.

www.sassandbide.com

Love Angel Music Baby

2011-02-18T18:04:00.001+01:00

Yesterday Feb 17th, Gwen Stefani presented L.A.M.B.'s Fall/Winter '11 collection during Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in New York.

If she's still on her African-inspiration mode, I can definitely see where this collection comes from. But just for one part of the creations. And this is probably what's so interesting about L.A.M.B: you have several styles modeled on the same runway, unlike most fashion shows.
As soon as I saw the outfits I thought of Congolese "sapeurs", those men that recreate dandy fashion.

But anyway, I love how Ms Gwen expresses herself through this label. And GOOD NEWS ! She finally launched the official website !

Sabali - Damian Marley x Nas x Amadou & Mariam

2011-02-09T13:30:00.001+01:00

I just had to put this video in here. It has its place in this blog. Definition of MASTERPIECE.

Paris Fashion Week 2011 - Julien Fournié

2011-02-06T22:04:00.000+01:00

Raise your hands if you have not seen any highlights from that amazing show ?! Well, shame on you !

Julien Fournié gave us, what to me was, the most bold and beautiful runway show of this year's Haute Couture Fashion Week in Paris.
And with good cause: the young designer paid a colorful tribute to the Black woman. Fluid shapes, brightness, afros everywhere, exclusively presented by black models.
It was worthy of the last African Fashion Week in Jo'burg.

So dear Mr Fournié, THANK YOU.

www.julienfournie.com

Gangs of New York

2011-02-06T20:39:00.000+01:00

In the February '11 issue of Vogue US, there is a fabulous editorial by Mario Testino, noted Peruvian fashion photographer, with 30 goregous models styled with Dona Karan, Ralph Lauren and Proenza Schouler.
There are the 'gangs' of brunettes, the blonds, the red-haired, the asian girls, the 'sexy' girls, the Renaissance ones, and of course the Black girls.

The last ones feature Joan Smalls, Ajak Deng, Arlenis Sosa, Chanel Iman, Anais Mali, Jourdan Dunn and Sessilee Lopez. Now if you don't know them all, you might keep their names in mind, because they are the new faces of that growing community of black models.

Art Minute

2011-02-06T20:18:00.000+01:00

Africa is not only 'wearable'. Many artists have expressed their love for the Motherland and their own roots through art. I will introduce you, now and then, to extraordinary people with extraordinary imagination and skills.

Today, I give you Yinka Shonibare.
He is a Nigerian contemporary artist, who studied at the Byam Shaw School of Art in London. He paints, draws, sculpts, photographs. But what's specific about it is that he always incorporate some Dutch wax printed cotton in his pieces. Always. He recreates key-moments of history, and we can see alot of colonialism inspiration too.
He is no beginner though: Mr Shonibare had his first exhibition back in 1989, and has been awarded with the Most Excellent Order of th British Empire decoration (MBE).

There is so much to say about this genius that I'll just give you an excerpt of his work, and let you visit his website HERE.

That cover: it's Barbie !

2011-01-21T20:00:00.000+01:00

Your new top female emcee brought her wildness to another level for the cover of V Magazine. I'm diggin the picture, the whole spread in general.

She is wearing a dress from the fly SS11 collection of Versace, with a make-up by Peter Philips, creative director for Chanel.

Never too hot for some knitwear

2011-01-21T15:15:00.002+01:00

You might have already gone through this shoot from English designer Derek Lawlor. It was shot in Uganda, by photographer A.J Hamilton, and I absolutely adore the contrast made between knitwear and heat.

Derek Lawlor is a London-based designer specialized in knitwear. He takes his inspiration from architecture and sculpture, as well as Japanese armors. His unique looks were recognized after a noticeable appearance during London Fashion Week '09.

www.dereklawlor.com

Boxing Kitten's new season

2011-01-21T14:12:00.002+01:00

Maya Lake is back with her mixed-prints signature creations for Boxing Kitten's Spring/Summer 2011 collection. The vintage cuts are still on point ! I'm sure B.K's top clientele, including the Knowles sisters, Kelis and Rihanna to name a few, will know how to rock these new pieces properly.

In an article from the October '10 issue of 19th Hole Magazine, Miss Lake announced her will to create a menswear collection. I'm pretty impatient to see that !

www.boxingkitten.com

naKIMuli Inc.

2010-12-14T10:58:00.001+01:00

One of my favorite young designers, Tenille McMillan, is back for a Holiday '10 collection with her very own label naKIMuli. Let me give you a must-see reminder..

www.nakimuli.com

L.A.M.B at your arms too

2010-12-10T22:09:00.001+01:00

You might have not ignore Gwen Stefani's latest afro collection for L.A.M.B.. I came across this STUNNING bag earlier, which appears to be part of the line as well. Then I found the four other ones.. Must-haves !

However, they need to launch a website or online shop for that amazing brand, because I don't know how nor where you can shop these items. So Gwen, if you pass through..

Jewel By Lisa

2010-12-10T20:12:00.000+01:00

Oh I thought I already did post Jewel By Lisa's Autumn/Winter '10 collection ! So here it is. Fantastic like every line of the brand. And if you've never heard of JBL take a look at the post I did back in August.

jewelbylisa.com

Model Time !

2010-12-10T17:14:00.003+01:00

I come across this poster everyday when taking the subway, and I wanted to know who these two men were. So there it is: I give you Armando Cabral (R) and his alleged brother (not sure about that at all).

Armando is a 28 years old Portuguese model who started his career in 2006. Yes, I said Portuguese, from Portugal. And yes, I saw his skin tone. But history has answer to that, and I'm not giving history courses, unfortunately.
UPDATE /!\ My best buddy W. just told me he was from Bissau Guinean descent. Here you go.

Anyhoo, this 188cm piece of dark chocolate modeled for the '06 S/S fashion shows of Louis Vuitton, Dior Homme and Thierry Mugler. He is now regularly featured in LV, Dries Van Noten, Calvin Klein and Ungaro shows.

Recently, he turned into a menshoe designer, creating his eponymous brand that is all about edge, class, colours, yet simplicity. I really really like it ! Peep it below.

http://www.armando-cabral.com/

Eki Orleans - Soft & Colorful

2010-11-27T01:00:00.000+01:00

"My collection accentuates the feminine, the brave and the sexy within all of us and it's my mission to bring out the colourful goddess in every woman."

Hazel Agreey-Orleans chose to express her creativity on one particular support: silk. Mixed with batik or flowered prints, it brings out obvious smoothness, yet a strong nature. And that's when Eki Orleans takes place.
Have a look on the S/S 2011 bright collection. And don't forget to go to the website to see the past ones !

www.ekiorleans.com

ZedEye - Obvious trend-setter in the making

2010-11-26T22:54:00.000+01:00

Paris may be the capital of fashion, but it appears like London is its school.
We have another talented graduate designer from London College of Fashion here: Ngozie Pere-Okorotie. The Nigerian-born founded ZedEye, a Vivienne-Westwood-meets-Victorian-theme-meets-Africa line. These are actually the young designer main inspirations. And I must say that it is very tasteful and eye-catching !

These are from the S/S 2011 collection entitled Tribal Romance Revisited. I can see the girl Chrisette Michelle in them..

It is being more and more difficult to differ from others when you have that much up-an-coming african inspired brands. But Ms Ngozie is passing with flying colours ! Literally.

www.zedeye.com

Tina Kalivas - Multicultural skills

2010-11-24T23:44:00.000+01:00

Tina Kalivas is an Australian designer who worked for the late great Alexander McQueen, just after she graduated from the London College of Fashion. Since 2002, she manages her own eponymous label, from which the designs are known to be always very ethnic.

You might recognize this first outfit.. Indeed, this is what our dear Solange wore a couple of months ago for her Fahizblack spread [remember ??].

You can shop some of these items online at Asos, plus they are at huuuge sale prices ! GO !!!

www.tinakalivas.com

Peacock Couture - Black eyed pea on the carpet

2010-11-24T21:25:00.002+01:00

Let's stay on those American Music Awards's red carpet with a quick look at Fergie's outfit. She arrived with a short Falguni & Shane Peacock black-and-blue sequined dress with feathers and lace. I personally liked it, contrary to many other feedbacks..

Back in September, Eva ~~Pigford~~ Marcille appeared at the MTV VMAs with a dress from the same collection, paired with some Versace platform heels. HOT !

On the other hand, it did not work out that well for Katy Perry at the past Europe Music Awards in Madrid...

Note that these designers, Mr and Mrs Peacock are Indian. It's always interesting to me to see the similarities between Indian fashion and African traditional ways of styling. I should probably do a whole post about it..

www.peacockcouture.com

The red-hair girl gets printed all up !

2010-11-24T20:12:00.000+01:00

Rihanna is so off her 'All Black Everything' outfits !

Last Sunday, at the American Music Awards, "Ri-Ri" gave us a great fashion show. And she managed to perform so well (surprisingly..). While opening the event with a medley of her new songs, her arms were all bangled up as she only wore a colorful skirted scarf upon some black panties, and a black and white bra top. She was then surrounded by her tribe of female dancers, literally, and some African tom-tom players. This is the first time I can really dig a live set from Rihanna. Peep it below if you haven't seen it.

Did Rihanna had a trip to Africa recently ?? Or did she hang out with Kelis and Solange more than usually ?? Last week, for her performance on MTV's ~~TRL~~ The Seven she was spotted with a Tina Kalivas (article to come) mixed-prints jacket, still with plenty of bangles on her arms.

Earlier the same week, at Good Morning America show, she rocked one of Gwen Stefani's wax-printed jacket from the L.A.M.B latest collection, along with a Dolce & Gabanna skirt.

Giiiiiirl ! I'm so looking forward to see her next appearances !

"Survival of the Fashionista"

2010-11-04T15:50:00.002+01:00

This is some random editorial I bumped into on Essence.com. It was shot back in September 2009 and the girls feature creations by Hussein Chalayan and Bryce D'Anice Aime.

Models: Eligha Ojoko and Teara Eglestone from Major Model Management.

Asos Africa

2010-11-04T14:58:00.001+01:00

Remember when I introduced you to Asos Africa here ?? Well, the pieces featured on that post are at sale price !
These next ones are the newest creations though. Still classy. But what are you still doing reading this ? Go and shop online !

Boxing Kitten - About a destiny

2010-11-04T14:32:00.001+01:00

A third part of one of my fav band was rocking Boxing Kitten lately. Did Solange whisper Michelle a word about B. K. ?

www.boxingkitten.com

I love Suno

2010-11-04T14:20:00.001+01:00

Rachel Bilson

That brand might be one of my favorites out of the bench. And it also appears as Rihanna's and Elle Fanning's huge digs. Even America's 1st Lady has adopted the NYC based brand. Recently spotted during Fashion Nights Out was actress Rachel Bilson in that cute little dress from the 2011 Resort collection, which I like alot. Take a look, and at the Spring-Summer '11 one as well. This year, there's a fabulicious bonus..

S-S collection

Resort collection

The bonus.. Aren't these sandals fabulous ???!

www.sunony.com

Lydia Courteille - Tribal Preciousness

2010-10-27T17:02:00.002+02:00

Pearls and diamonds undergo an ethnic lift by French jewelry designer Lydia Courteille. Masks, wood, ivory have their places on our bodies too.

www.lydiacourteille.com

Junya Watanabe - The Motherland meets the Ingalls family

2010-10-27T16:47:00.004+02:00

The Japanese designer, mostly known from Comme Des Garçons, gave us art during his Spring '09 fashion show.

Despite his huge interest in batik prints and his love for headwraps, I'm still trying to figure out how you can properly wear these pieces. But I can definitely say that to me, this is a real fashion SHOW: it is astonishing, edgy, creative, spectacular, nothing we could have thought of.

Hervé Léger by Max Azria

2010-10-27T16:21:00.001+02:00

The body-con dresses specialist is back with pieces I bet I'm going to see on Kim K real soon. Classical black and white, bright colors or skin toned (well, white skin tone), the designers are giving every potential alternatives.

By the way, "body-con" means "body conscious". A body-con dress is a skin tight dress that reveals all one's curves. And please, girls, don't complain about your curves. Can nobody tell me their booty, their thighs or breast is too big (or small). This is part of our heritage, what makes us so beautiful. Be confident. Rock a body-con dress and you'll kill someone just by walking !

K. Harin x D. Sims x LV x Vogue x The Motherland

2010-10-17T23:40:00.010+02:00

This is one of my favourite spreads: November '09 issue of Vogue Paris. It was some advertising for Louis Vuitton, and at the same time a subtle tribute to artist David Haring, as he inspired those body-painted graffitis. Brazilian model Isabela Fontana got her glamazon role way more than well-done too: could someone have brought some more fierceness to this ?? Nuh-huh !

Props to British photographer David Sims, and to Vogue Paris's editor-in-chief Carine Roitfield that kind of directed the styling for the shoot. Can't get enough of it !

> Keith Haring artworks

Sika Designs

2010-10-12T20:15:00.006+02:00

London based designer Phyllis Taylor is making a bold and vibrant use of the wax fabric. She created Sika Designs, another brand which clothes are all hand-made and straight from Ghana. From square-shouldered jackets, jumpsuits, to prom dresses and full skirts, every trend has its own afrocentric translation. I'm simply loving it !

And what's even cooler is that Ms Taylor does not forget about them budding fashionistas: Little Miss Sika collection is too cute !

www.sikadesigns.co.uk

Marchesa - On the carpet

2010-10-12T18:49:00.007+02:00

Fashion Night Out. New York. 9.7.2010

Gossip Girls Blake Lively rocking a beautiful ethnic-inspired dress from Marchesa Resort '11 collection, during this past Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.
Other pieces of the collection find the same inspirations. See for yourself.

www.marchesa.com

Chichia London by Christine Mhando

2010-10-12T17:24:00.006+02:00

Well. I guess using batik prints for today's wearable designs is getting kind of common now !

Shop HERE

Wafrica - Difference is a key

2010-10-12T16:08:00.004+02:00

How surprised was I when I found out about this brand !
Wafrica was created by a Cameroonian-born designer, Serge Mouangue, and is all about reinventing traditional couture. This appears like the most beautiful way to mix one's love for its roots to their passion for another culture.

In Japan, these ankara prints are seen as modernity, freshness, since kimonos are usually made of silk and in neutral tones.
Asia and Africa seem so different in our minds, but if you look closer you'll notice that both cultures share values about respecting their customs, the importance of the family, the faith in their beliefs, and I'm sure there's plenty of other similarities.

www.wafrica.jp

LV x Bono x The Motherland = Africa Rising

2010-10-11T15:04:00.013+02:00

Paris, Oct. 6th > 18th.
The Louis Vuitton team is partnering up with Edun, the ethical clothing label created by Bono and his wife Ali, for an exhibition titled Africa Rising. It showcases five African artists that seek changes throughout creativity, passion and dynamism.

Georges Lilanga and his colourful sculptures that satirize urban life out there in Mozambique.

Angele Etoundi Essamba, whose main inspiration comes from women.

The late Seydou Keita portraying in black and white Africa in the '70s.

Nontsikelelo 'Lolo' Veleko street portraits of Johannesbourg youth.

Rising Congolese photographer Baudouin Mouanda and his pictures of the people they call the "sapeurs" in Brazzaville. It is defined as a movement "around the possession of the most expensive, most luxurious, most extravagant fashion in the world"...

The exhibit is also the occasion to expose Bono and Ali's actions, their collection for Edun, and also the duffle bag that came out from this collaboration between the couple and Louis Vuitton.

- The people we met in Africa were always full of hope, intelligence and creativity. It is important to keep in mind the opportunities you can get on that magical continent. -

www.edun.com
www.louisvuittonjourneys.com

Model Time !

2010-09-28T19:39:00.007+02:00

Name: Ubah Hassan
Origins: Somalia
Birthdate: 8.27.1987
Current location: New York

There is something about Somali women that I love. Beautiful plain skin tones, thin features, they are mostly tall and well-shaped, very simple and natural. To me they are just part of the most beautiful women on earth. They took over the fashion world a while ago with Iman, becoming Africa's ambassadors out there at Uncle Sam's, alongside Kenyan models.

Ubah Hassan is one of them, from the new generation. Her career started in 2008, when she became a muse for Ralph Lauren, just after being featured in the oh-so-fantastic Vogue Italia's All Black Issue spread in July. She then appeared in another issue of Vogue Italia, and did Arise magazine cover for the February '09 issue.

LAMB - On the carpet

2010-09-28T16:41:00.005+02:00

Las Vegas, NA. September 22nd.

Gwen Stefani introducing her wax figure at Madame Tussauds Museum, wearing a pretty wax cloth dress from her Spring/Summer '11 collection for L.A.M.B.

Juanjo Oliva - Or how to be stunned

2010-09-22T23:27:00.008+02:00

OH-EM-GEE ! I literally screamed when I saw this collection ! This is gorgeously gorgeous ! When you reach that level, you are not talking 'high fashion' but 'higher-than-the-sky fashion' !

So let me tell you about Juanjo Oliva. First of, he is an accomplished Spanish designer from Madrid. Meaning you must pronounce his name conveniently !
Alright so this afrolicious collection of his was presented at the Cibeles Madrid Fashion Week back in February, for this past Spring/Summer '10. I don't think this post needs much talking, so I'm going to let the pictures amaze you like they did to me. Check out the website for more wonders !

www.juanjooliva.com

Issa London - A flight from Brazil to India

2010-09-22T21:18:00.007+02:00

London Fashion Week. Day 5

Bright colours ! Fluid dresses and harem trousers ! Headwraps ! What a wonderful collection Ms Daniella Helayel presented for Issa London's Spring/Summer '11 !
It looks kind of Indian to me, and indeed the brazilian designer admitted she was inspired by Indian women and their art of wearing those beautiful saris.
I'm loving it !

www.issalondon.com

Holly Fulton - Look beyond tomorrow

2010-09-21T15:05:00.005+02:00

London Fashion Week. Day 4

Graphic prints and futuristic shapes were, once again, the watchwords for Holly Fulton's Spring/Summer '11 collection, still with that ethnic touch.
I'm so loving the accessories !

www.hollyfulton.com

Matthew Williamson - A way through the jungle

2010-09-21T14:43:00.006+02:00

London Fashion Week. Day 3

Matthew Williamson invites what they call the "safari" style to the most distinguished cocktails. Sand colors and fringes are on track.

www.matthewwilliamson.com

Aschobi Designs - All about faith

2010-09-21T00:26:00.008+02:00

Sierra Leone. For those who don't know, this is one of the three poorest countries in the entire world, despite the important flood of diamond exploited out there. Ever saw the movie Blood Diamond ? Yes, it was there (cliché to its highest..). Like it wasn't enough, Sierra Leone got rid of a murdering 11-year civil war in January 2002, exactly because of those same diamonds and their controlling.

However, through that chaos, an aspiring stylist, Adama Kai decided to bring a little hope where there wasn't anymore. She studied in Paris, traveled to New York and went back to her native country, for the love of it and its people.

“I am designing fashion as a Sierra Leonean. I am launching this platform from Sierra Leone to represent Sierra Leone. I want Aschobi to be the aspiration and desire of every Sierra Leonean but also for everyone else too.”

Now, with her very own brand Aschobi, Adama is being shouted out from different corners of the globe. Her designs are modern, classy and never forget her roots.
One word: COURAGE.

www.aschobi.com

Solange x Fashizblack

2010-09-19T22:03:00.004+02:00

September-October issue.

Not only Sol iz fash, she also wears Africa too darn well ! And she is beautifully taking away the "sister of" image that surrounded her.

www.fashizblack.com

L.A.M.B

2010-09-19T17:35:00.006+02:00

No doubt, she is no stranger to us. Gwen Stefani killed it during the Mercedes-Benz New York Fashion Week 2010 !
She presented the Spring/Summer 2011 collection of her label, L.A.M.B, that I believe stands for "Love. Angel. Music. Baby". Oh wait, that was the title of her first solo album back in 2004 right ?! Well.

The designs are the perfect reflection of the artist: colourful, eclectic, cutting-edged, ethnic. And I don't know if there is an other artist that brings out ethnic fashion that much as Gwen Stefani. We've seen her wearing Hindu clothes, then was into Japanese fashion, now steps onto the African one. You go, Gwen !

D.V.N.

2010-09-17T02:46:00.004+02:00

Dries Van Noten is a noted Belgian stylist who is known for working with prints of all sorts, including the batik print, here for its Spring/Summer '10 collection.

John Galliano x Fertility Goddess

2010-09-17T02:05:00.005+02:00

Back in 2009, we spotted the Fertility Goddess Hi Heels shoes during Dior's launching of its Spring/Summer collection. They took their inspiration from a trip John Galliano had in Africa.

People started to have a debate about the offensive nature of representing a naked fully-shaped woman on a heel, during such a noted fashion show. But I don't get it. Is there some more feminine symbol than a fertility goddess ?? They've been praised by every people, from Christians, Hindus and Greeks, to Mayas, Egyptians and Romans. So it is a huge tribute that John Galliano paid to all the women out there.

Anyhoo, that's hell of a shoe ! $1,600 only...

Ghubar

2010-09-03T01:49:00.005+02:00

Ghubar Mag -
A rising webzine about culture, art and fashion of course, basing around the cultural mix of our society. For the September issue, all eyes on the Motherland, with three different gorgeous covers. It will be available online on the 5th.

I really can't wait for Ghubar to land on newsstands ! Props to Mario Epanya for the shots.

www.ghubar-magazine.com
The blog !

Model Time !

2010-09-03T00:42:00.006+02:00

Name: Nokathula Neka aka Thula
Age: 20
Origins: South African
Agency: Diva Models

These stuntastik pics were taken by Danish photographer Isa Jacobs for a short editorial featured on TheOnes2Watch, an online magazine that emphasizes on worldwide up-and-coming photographers, hair/makeup artists, designers, etc.

"Black beauty" to the fullest !

Her book

Sass & Bide

2010-09-02T03:27:00.009+02:00

We never hear about what's going on out there in Oceania, do we ?! Well, two talented women managed to do well and created in 1999 the label Sass and Bide.
Sarah-Jane Clarke and Heidi Middleton has been the first Australian designers to be invited to showcase at the New York Fashion Week (and during eight consecutive years). Sass & Bide's boutiques are all located in Australia but the label is settling up a shop somewhere in London.

Recalls me a little of BCBGMaxazria..
Aboriginal inspiration or African inspiration, anyhoo, that's kinda related.

www.sassandbide.com

Bee

2010-09-01T01:53:00.003+02:00

August '10: my dear Beyonce rockin Boxing Kitten in St Tropez.

www.boxingkitten.com

Viv La Resistance

2010-09-01T00:28:00.007+02:00

There's a new rookie in town ! The least I could say is that Nigerian folks are going hard onto the fashion world !

Mo Alatise takes a shot by cutting up fun and contemporary cocktail dresses for fun and young ladies - yeah, like me. Short cuts, voluminous shapes, funky designs: that's the formula to Viv La Resistance. Add to that 'incompatible' textures such as lycra, denim and damask, and it may become a promising collection.

But let's be patient, at least until there is an official website.

Christian Louboutin x Ndebele people

2010-08-03T03:42:00.008+02:00

Do I need to present this brand ? Of course not. But I've been wanting to post this article even before I started this blog. I did not because I was looking for a pair of sneakers I wanted to associate to it; I'm still unable to find them so...

This shoe, named Ulona, immediatly reminded me of something when I first saw it. But I couldn't tell what.
A long while after, I was at the bookstore leafing through a book about tribes around the world, when I came across the page about the impressive Ndebele tribe, from South Africa. I knew they recalled me something but couldn't tell what.
Finally it hit me: Ulona was created from the Ndebele style ! The patterns are reminiscent of the paintings Ndebele women are well-known for, and the rings represent the ones they carry around their neck, arms and legs.
That's genius, Mr Louboutin !

Zuhair Murad

2010-08-03T02:20:00.005+02:00

I have never seen such fabulousness in some clothes. Lebanese Zuhair Murad's creation are simply GORGEOUS. For 15 years now, he has been excelling in mastering the way to bring the goddess out of a woman. That might sound big, but this is in no way exaggerated.

Special kudos to this first dress I fell in love with a while ago, when I saw it at the back of Vogue's Spring-Summer '10 guide. The three are the meeting of the oriental diva and wildness. Amazing.

www.zuhairmurad.com

Jewel By Lisa - Adopted by Kelis

2010-08-03T00:44:00.006+02:00

So ! I find Kelis HORRIBLE these days, let's be honest! Weird look & accessories, a strange tendancy to mix colours that don't really match.. She can do better.
But she's working the ankara fabric very well !

That dress right there is from Jewel By Lisa, a company created by nigerian Lisa Folawiyo five years ago. The brand is now defined as a luxury brand, that present a new way to wear ankara prints mostly provided by Vlisco: hand-sewn unique pieces, combined with Swarowski crystals, silk, cotton, taffeta and many more.

And JBL is proving itself onto the worldwide fashion scene. The Spring-Summer '10 collection was revealed at this year Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in New York City, as well as at the Arise Africa Fashion Week in South Africa.

[Click to enlarge]

Jewel By Lisa. Put this name in a corner of your minds, because you won't stop earing from it !

www.jewelbylisa.com

Ohema Ohene

2010-07-27T11:49:00.009+02:00

Men are not excluded from this blog, they sure know how to carry a terrific style as well, and sometimes better than some of us women.. One of the places they especially excel in that art is London.
Well, this is the upcoming menswear collection from British brand Ohema Ohene. The designer, Abenaa Pokuaa, got inspired by her native country and the one she's living in, blended the two ideas, and I must say that I like it alot ! It's trendy and wearable on some daily basis.

For true kings only. Yes. Because "ohema" and "ohene" are twi (a Ghanaian language) words for "queen" and "king".

www.ohemaohene.com

This is no ending !

2010-07-20T00:54:00.006+02:00

Well.. Vogue Africa is not going to appear on newsstands anytime soon.
Indeed, Condé Nast, the publishing conglomerate that takes care of Vanity Fair, The New Yorker, GQ, Teen Vogue and Vogue among others, officially said no to a licence that would make my dream come true, in spite of Mario Epanya's wonderful work.. You wonder why ?! Humm, that's a very good question which answer remains unknown.

I really do not understand what the problem is. Africa's fashion scene is being recognized in the whole fashion world for being innovative and knowing how to blend freshness, classiness and some touches of tradition. From now on, Condé Nast shouldn't pretend to promote innovation anymore. Whoever did not get that Africa fashion sense was the future.. should definately review its standards.

To be continued..

* Mario Epanya announced that this would be the last cover of the fictitious magazine..

Africa Fashion Week 2010 - Part. III

2010-07-05T00:02:00.010+02:00

Christie Brown, by Ghanaian Aisha Obuobi, is what I would call "high fashion à l'africaine". I especially love that white dress with the huge wax bow !

And what about Koketso Chiepe, from Botswana ?!! Bright colors, fluid shapes, sassy cuts = Awesome collection !

Now Gloria Wavamunno, originally from Uganda, presented her creations made of good ol' wax prints. Have you seen that yellow/black jacket ?! That single-sleeved orange dress ?! I'm lovin them.

London based Nigerian Designer Bunmi Olaye showed off some wildness for Bunmi Koko, with model that looked like African priestess, wearing those masks and armed with long sticks.. (I ain't crazy I swear !)

Africa Fashion Week 2010 - Part. II

2010-07-04T23:33:00.011+02:00

The event is now over. And after seeing the pictures, I truly think and hope that it is on its way to expend onto the fashion world because there are a lot of potential and skills ! (Click on the pics for a bigger viewing)

South African designer Errol Arendz, for a thin and glamourous summer.

Ghanaian born and Californian raised-in Mimi Plange, for her own label, Boudoir d'Huitres (from the french, meaning Boudoir of Oysters), and whose designs are mostly inspired by the 17th century. Classy !

Somalian twins Ayaan and Idyl, from Maatano, their emerging brand based in New-York City. This collection features pastel toned garments and 70s inspired cuts (in my very own opinion !).

Thula Sindi, another South African designer.. One of my favourites with those colourful yet very chic pieces. (Y)

Africa Fashion Week 2010

2010-07-02T01:09:00.012+02:00

This year, all eyes on South Africa !

Everyone is aware of what's going on out there in the continent.. Don't you ?! Yes, I mean the FIFA World Cup ! And that's the moment they chose to organize Africa Fashion Week in Jo'burg, from June 30th to July 3rd.

First day was off the hook, as it featured noted designers Xuly Bët (Mali), Sakina M'sa (Comoria), David Tlale (South Africa), Ituen Basi and Deola Sagoe (Nigeria). Peep the pics !

David Tlale and his silk and muslin made creations, reminding me of Carnival costumes (that Arlequin-ish outfit, the princess's one, the long tutu, the eye make-up.. I'm not crazy, am I ?!)..

Sakina M'sa and her modern graphics designs..

Xuly Bët and his Grace Jone-esque collection. Liking everything he does ! Article to come.

The meaning of elegance by queen designer Deola Sagoe. Gorgeous !

Ituen Basi presented an explosive mix of Ankara prints and the 60s designs.

To be continued, for sure !

"America's Funky Sweetheart"

2010-06-28T21:48:00.010+02:00

One of my biggest crushes !
Except for the clothing line, I'm deeply in love with the haircut ! Totally "edgy-esque" !!

"Nakimuli" is the Ugandan word for "flower". It is also the collection created by Brooklyn native designer Tenille McMillan in 2008. She has a second one named SHANAE, which items are all made of jersey and inspired by her "career" as a modern dancer.
She's definately taking the subject to a whole other level: this is fresh, funky, urban and soooo young ! The pieces talk by themselves anyway !

Featuring these earrings from Tenille McMillan's assistant company, Made Of AG. They remind me of designer Melany Ehsani's collections..

Must-have ! the Dookie Bracelets, or how to bring the Motherland touch in a funny-yet-trendy way !

www.nakimuli.com
Her blog !

Suno - Adopted by Riri

2010-06-25T20:18:00.009+02:00

June 2010. Rihanna wearing a SUNO romper. Fashion to its finest !

Two years ago, Max Osterweis, a native new-yorker launched SUNO, a collection that features, once again, African printed clothes, after a decade collecting textiles in Kenya. He is still moving around there since he employs 15 full-time Kenyan tailors, while the designs of the garments are established in Brooklyn, NY. This is his own way to give back to the country that inspired him. (Y)

www.sunony.com

Beach time !

2010-06-25T19:06:00.010+02:00

Sunglasses, flip-flops, mini skirts and shorts everywhere.. Summertime is finally settling down ! And I badly want to go to the beach, even though I don't have my '10 swimsuit yet. By the way, here are some I dig and that are related to the subject of this page.

Aya Morrison

Bantu Wax

Agua De Coco

Victoria's Secret

BCBGMAXAZRIA

2010-06-25T03:45:00.007+02:00

Have you ever seen some brand which items are ALL stuntastiks ?! Well I have. Its name: BCBGMAXAZRIA.
You certainly did spot them on celebrities such as Sophia Bush, Vivica Fox, Kim Kardashian, Hayden Panettiere and soooo many more ! Whenever I get to see those dresses, I'm being admirative. THEY. ARE. GOR-GEOUS.
The designer, Max Azria, is French with Tunisian descent. He founded the brand back in 1989, taking inspiration from the glamour and sensuality of Hollywood, and has since settled onto the world's runways.
Enough talking, let's admire these dresses I chose based on this blog's subject, even though every single piece of the different collections is fabulous.

www.bcbg.com

Deola Sagoe - Diva extraordinaire

2010-06-24T12:12:00.007+02:00

"The African designer's dream"..
"Nigeria's most internationally known designer"..
"An African Icon"..

The designer

The least we can say is that Deola Sagoe has established herself an high quality fame within the fashion industry ! She has shown her collections during New-York Fashion Week, Rome Haute Fashion Week, Nokia Cape Town Fashion Week, and was chosen to represent her country at the CatWalk The World - Fashion For Food event organised by the UN in Lagos (Nigeria) back in 2006.
Ms Sagoe sure knows how to blend unexpected fabrics, prints, patterns, colours into a funktastik smoothie cocktail, while paying tribute to the shaping of African women.

www.deolasagoe.net

Cosmoparis

2010-06-24T11:39:00.009+02:00

Cosmoparis is a French brand that provides shoes and leather goods. There are points of sales almost everywhere in the country, as well as in Switzerland and in South Africa.
I loooove this brand ! Unfortunately, due to my student incomes, I cannot really afford their items (yet!)... But who cares, windows shopping has never killed anyone !

I have a crush on these 1st ones..

Boxing Kitten

2010-06-23T15:06:00.008+02:00

Earlier this month, Solange Knowles was spotted in Vegas for a DJing session, wearing a cute Boxing Kitten dress. I really need to get me some piece of this collection !

So Boxing Kitten is an American brand founded by a self-taught NYC designer, Maya Lake. The pieces mix vintage cuts and 100% wax fabrics, which is such a smart combination as you can see !
I'm not so sure about this, but I think Beyoncé and A. Keys rocked them out in their due-to-be-released-this-summer video for 'Put It In A Love Song'. To be continued...

www.boxingkitten.com

Alexander McQueen

2010-06-02T21:00:00.012+02:00

I heard that animal-printed clothes were one of the hot trends of this year. I am not really fond of them because it tends to give some very extravagant looks. I do agree that adding some little animal prints can provide some more fierceness. But anyhoo !
During its Spring '10 Collection, the late Alexander McQueen presented this corseted-snake-printed dress made of silk and organza, that I find really cute.

Actually there are different patterns of the same cloth..

.. and also the matched clutch that I absolutely adore. Warning ! Do not carry it wearing one of those dresses. You don't want to look like Zoolander.. !

www.alexandermcqueen.com

Asos

2010-05-18T16:28:00.008+02:00

Asos is a British online clothing store for men, women and kids. Early in this year, they launched Asos Africa, a line for women, featuring african prints. The items of this collection are all made in Kenya, in a workshop named SOKO, involving the brand in the consequent world of fair trade. They aim to create some sustainable employment and give Kenyan people the opportunity to show their dress-making skills.
Good initiative !

www.asos.com

Louis Vuitton goes tribal

2010-05-13T15:46:00.009+02:00

Last year, Marc Jacobs presented a very tribal inspired collection for Louis V's Spring collection, including the extra HOT Spicy Sandals that recall tribal masks and costumes. They have been spotted on Beyonce, Amber Rose, Alexa Chung, Mischa Barton or Victoria Beckham. Just love 'em !

Also featured was the African Queen Clutch, very classy and chic seen on Halle Berry.