As I am someone that loves anything bold, printed and full of vibrant colours. As much as the floral trend has overpowered my closet this season. I must say.... that the most fascinating for me however is the African Print.
The cool thing about this trend is that while it may be very ethnic, the cuts and silhouettes are super modern and very accessible and as a Hijabi you could totally hallify the look and make it completely modest. I wore this outfit to a high tea a few weeks ago and the theme was African. Unfortunately I wasn't able to take any decent pics on the day but was so fortunate when Nazmeera from Infallible photography, also known as Hijablifestyle _S.A and I collaborated and found the perfect opportunity to relive my African inspired look.
Wearing a bold African inspired print doesn't have to be overwhelming. Find a simple blouse or top which I did... keeping it neutral so that the main focus remains on the skirt. I paired it with crisp white shirt from Zara basic, navy heeled sandals from Charles Keith as well as keeping my accessories to a minimal and classic, so that it compliments the colors in the skirts design. The Neck piece and handbag was a purchase from a store at the African museum in Newton.
The fabric is know as African wax print cloth.They are so full of colour and meaning that I had to find out the story behind them… Originally, the wax resist dyed fabrics came from Indonesia which were then exported to the Gold Coast and spread over West Africa into Central Africa. They became extremely popular and over time the Africans customized and personalized the designs. Nowadays they are primarily made in Ghana and have strong cultural, social and economic importance.
The patterns tell stories of relevance to the wearer, such as proverbs, poems and traditional African fables. The colours also hold significance as they can represent social standing, age, tribal orientation and marital status.
The moral of this story is that you don’t have to be exotic or have an African cultural background to respect and rock this trend.With receiving such compliments from this attire. They are currently in production and will be launched on my online store soon. Also ladies besides the skirts, I have a whole new range that includes, dresses, jumpsuits, harems, Kimono's long and short, Cardies and shift dresses that will be on my online store next week Insha Allah. I will send out a notification as soon as they all up. I'm super excited!!!
Last but not least Gauteng ladies... be sure not to miss Tasneem Valley and myself at Isabella's Cradle Stone Mall for a chic styling high tea event on 30 November 2014. If you haven't reserved you seats... please do so now to avoid any disappointments.
Until Next
Stay Beautiful
Much love
WH
XOXO
