It’s a new era in African fashion in which young designers are focused on issues of identity, sustainability and the preservation of artisanal techniques. Although shackles of colonialism were thrown off years ago, the embrace of ancient traditions has a newfound focus, and an equal emphasis on environmental responsibility and a respect of craft is reinterpreting fashion in exciting new ways. The vanguard of contemporary African designers is moving away from the cliché of African prints to adopting and valorising indigenous textiles. From the late 18th century, an influx of imitation prints arrived from Europe and soon became desirable. But these were in fact not African but from places such as Manchester and the Netherlands. Now, there’s a scepticism about these materials, with designers critical of their origins.
SOURCE: THE GUARDIAN
More Stories
Re-entry of Higher Capacity Aircraft on African Routes Shows Recovery of Hard Hit Travel Sector
For the First Time, Jumia May have to Worry about its Liquidity Position
The Pros and Cons of South Africa’s Tourism Marketing Strategy
Can Southern African States Move Further Up the Lithium Value Chain?
Dutch Energy Producer Eyes Africa Expansion
Libya’s Oil Ministry has Rejected the $8bn Offshore Gas Projects Deal
Zimbabwe’s Leader is Seeking Investment for a New National Capital
South African Poultry Farmers in Dire Straits
Travel Marketplace for Immersive Experiences Matching Tourists with Verified African Curators
Africa’s Only All-Female Solar Panel Assembly Plant Launched in Cape Town
Pope Francis Condemns “Economic Colonialism” as He Arrives in the DRC
Encouraging Signs that Corruption is being Successfully Tackled in Parts of Africa