By Yemisi Suleiman
The fusion of creativity with designs has fuelled the rapid expansion of the fashion industry globally. It’s no news that including African prints in clothing designs has sparked notable shifts in the industry.
Over time, African fashion has garnered international approval and praise, profoundly impacting worldwide trends. Africa is renowned for its lively colours, intricate patterns, and distinct designs, which have entered current global fashion trends.
African fashion is not just about the designs but also about displaying and preserving culture.
From luxurious and elegant formal attire to dazzling everyday streetwear, African fashion showcases various styles celebrating cultural identity and values.
Fashion brands increasingly include African prints in their designs, leading to significant changes in their collections. The popularity of these prints highlights a broader acceptance and appreciation of African culture and creativity. This trend showcases Africa’s influence on modern fashion, proving that the continent’s cultural expressions resonate globally.
The rise of fashion platforms like Lagos Fashion Week and South African Fashion Week has further elevated African fashion onto the global stage. These platforms reflect African designers’ incredible artistry and craftsmanship and show the uniqueness and diversity of the continent’s fashion world.
As a result, African fashion has become increasingly prominent in the international fashion industry, promoting a new wave of innovative talent and captivating the attention of fashion enthusiasts worldwide.
The growing demand for African-inspired fashion shows a shift towards more inclusive and diverse expressions of style. Consumers today seek authenticity and unique stories behind the clothes they wear. And African fashion delivers this with ease.
In addition to its creative and artistic significance, by embracing and promoting African fashion, designers celebrate its beauty and creativity and contribute to preserving and appreciating diverse cultures. The growing acceptance of African fashion recognises its impact on the global fashion industry, which enriches it with its distinctive flair and timeless allure.
Fashion designers carve out a successful path in the industry in Nigeria and other African countries. Consumers need help getting over their creations. The growing consumer base for African fashion attests to the innovative and creative designs of Nigerian and African brands, causing a stir in the global scene. Reinventing the fashion industry code of luxury with innovation demands sustainable and African fashion heritage. And this is where Emmadube steps in.
In a 2023 collection by Emmadube called Alexa, the brand truly showcases its design prowess and diversity by incorporating Ankara prints. This collection comprises five exquisite designs, each artfully crafted from colourful Ankara prints.
The bold and bright colours utilised in conjunction with the Ankara prints capture Africa’s lively and colourful essence. The collection prominently features green, purple, and turquoise blue, each colour chosen deliberately to convey a sense of calmness, energy, sophistication, creativity, tranquillity, and freshness that resonates throughout these designs.
Emmadube’s creative use of these colours and prints in its collection reflects the brand’s creativity and design prowess. It also breathes new life into contemporary fashion.
Maxi Elegance: This design is a stunning 3-layered maxi shirt dress. This exquisite dress features a stylish shirt collar and beautifully crafted long shirt sleeves. The layers of the dress offer a unique, sophisticated, and relaxed look that brilliantly showcases the designer’s creativity. This dress is perfect for those who want to make a statement with a bold and unconventional style.
The African prints incorporated into the design radiate a strong sense of artistic expression and personal style. The infusion of these prints and the patterns adds a captivating and visually appealing element to the dress, making it a standout piece.
The elegant shirt collar adds a timeless and professional look to the dress. It gives it a sharp and clean aesthetic, perfect for casual settings. This touch of sweetness and nostalgia adds a delightful charm to the overall look.
The shirt collar and long sleeves also create a perfect blend of sophistication and comfort. The long sleeves add a laid-back and cosy vibe to the design, making it ideal for everyday wear. Whether you are looking for a chic yet comfortable outfit for a casual day out or an ensemble that exudes creativity and individuality, this maxi shirt dress is the perfect choice.
Purple Royale: Another beautiful design from the Alexa collection features a gorgeous shade of purple that radiates sophistication and luxury. The long-sleeved top, coupled with straight-cut pants, adds a touch of practicality and functionality to the ensemble. The bold print further enhances the outfit, making it an ideal choice for individuals who appreciate comfort and elegance. This eye-catching design will make a lasting impression at any event or gathering.
Radiant Chic: This stylish long-sleeved outfit features a stunning green Ankara print that combines tradition and modern fashion effortlessly.
Tailored with the fashionable African woman in mind, this design displays a versatile elegance that allows for a seamless transition from casual to formal settings. The soft, breathable fabric ensures comfort, while the chic and streamlined silhouette offers freedom of movement.
With its sophisticated design, this outfit is perfect for those seeking a polished and refined look for any occasion.
If you appreciate the bright cultural heritage of African prints, the Alexa collection is a wardrobe staple.
This collection fuses the essence of African tradition with modern sophistication and unparalleled comfort. You embody chic elegance when you adorn yourself with these meticulously crafted pieces and exude an unmistakable sense of luxury and refinement.
Every garment in the Alexa collection is proof of the timeless beauty and grace of African prints, and wearing them allows you to effortlessly showcase your unique sense of style while honouring a rich cultural legacy.