This week we celebrate all things African fashion in the Big Brother Naija All Stars house as the housemates journey through the world of fashion trends in Nigeria and Africa as a whole in a series of carefully designs games, tasks and challenges.
The African continent is blessed with a lot of amazing fashion that has continued to evolve through centuries. From vibrant and colourful traditional garments to modern and innovative designs, African fashion showcases a rich cultural heritage and artistic expression.
The use of bold prints, intricate patterns and unique fabrics in African fashion has gained global recognition, making it a significant contributor to the global fashion industry. We have also noticed that some African cultures share similar styles and patterns, such as the use of geometric shapes and beads.
This demonstrates the interconnectedness and influence of African fashion across different regions and communities. Despite these similarities, each culture still maintains its own distinct identity, adding to the diversity and beauty of African fashion. Check out some of the similar styles found in African cultures below.
1. The Ashanti and Itshekiri culture
In both the Ashanti and Itshekiri cultures, weddings are not only a celebration of love but also a showcase of their rich cultural heritage. The bride's attire, adorned with vibrant colours, intricate patterns, and exquisite metal work, truly captivates the eyes of everyone present.
Itshekiri woman
Source: Instagram
An Ashanti woman
Source: Instagram
2. The Urhobo and Zulu head pieces
The Urhobo women of southern Nigeria and the Zulu women of South Africa share a flare for colourful headgear. Both cultures value the significance of adorning their heads with beautifully crafted headpieces, showcasing their rich cultural heritage and sense of style.
Urhobo headgear
Source: Instagram
The Zulu Isicholo
Source: Instagram
3. The Nigerian and Ghanian male kaftan
Both Nigerian and Ghanaian men often opt for vibrant and colourful kaftans, adorned with intricate embroidery and patterns. This traditional attire not only showcases their cultural heritage but also reflects their pride in embracing their African roots.
A Ghanian man in a Kaftan
Source: Instagram
A Nigerian man in a kaftan
Source: Instagram
4. The Benin, South Africa and Maasai beads
The Benin people of Nigeria, South Africans and the Maasai of Kenya and Tanzani share an affinity for intricate beadwork. These cultural groups have a long-standing tradition of using beads as a form of artistic expression and as a way to communicate social status and identity. The Benin people are known for their exquisite coral beads, while South Africans and the Maasai are renowned for their intricate beadwork on traditional garments such as the Xhosa's isikhakha.
Benin attire
Source: Instagram
Xhosa attire
Source: Instagram
5. The Ashanti and Esan toga
The Esan men of southern Nigeria and the Ashanti men of Ghana share an affinity for long flowing material that they wrap into a toga. This traditional attire, known as a "wrapper" or "kente cloth," holds great cultural significance for both communities. It is often worn during special occasions, such as weddings, festivals and important ceremonies, reflecting the rich heritage and sense of pride among the Esan and Ashanti men.
Esan traditional attire
Source: Instagram
Ashanti traditional attire
Source: Instagram
Africa is definitely blessed with a unique sense of fashion, and we hope it leads to the recognition and celebration of diverse cultures across the continent.
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