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When residing thousands of miles distant from one’s homeland, a frequent challenge emerges in maintaining a sense of connection and paying tribute to one’s heritage in various possible manners. And fashion offers the opportunity to rock African styles with pride.
Incorporating African pieces into one’s wardrobe while living in the diaspora can be a captivating journey of self-expression and cultural connectivity.
By weaving these distinctive elements into everyday attire, individuals are not only showcasing their heritage but also forging a bridge between their present surroundings and ancestral roots.
This intentional blending of styles, colours, and patterns serves as a visual reminder of the rich traditions that shape their identity.
Embracing these African influences within fashion choices not only celebrates diversity but also fosters a sense of belonging and pride for those navigating the unique experience of being both global citizens and cultural custodians.
Check out five ways to add some Afrocentric flare to your workwear wardrobe:
1. Style your ankara scarves
There are beautiful ways to style your ankara scarves. Depending on the dress code at your workplace, you can either choose the dramatic route by styling your scarf in an elaborate fashion or opt for something subtle like a headband-styled scarf.
2. Get office appropriate ankara dress
The beautiful thing about ankara fabrics is that they can be made into different styles. With workwear fashion, making a gown in a form-fitted style or a skater dress with an appropriate hemline that is acceptable in your workplace.
3. Shop for rich-coloured kaftans
For gentlemen, there are many suave ways to look stylish in your workplace. Kaftans are easy to style and add to a man’s confidence.
Credit: Instagram
4. Accessorised with beads
Shambalas and coral beads are some of the easiest ways to accessorise your outfits. These jewelry pieces are colourful and can add some sparkle and finesse to one’s outfit.
5. Ankara blazers are great pieces in African styles
A good blazer can add some pizzazz to your outfit but an ankara blazer brings twice that effect. Pair a good colourful ankara blazer over a dress in a solid complementary colour or even over a white shirt and dark-coloured pants.
6. Sew ankara button shirts
Just like dresses, you can make sleek ankara shirts and pair them with plain-coloured pants or skirts.
7. Ankara bags are perfect for lovers of African styles
And finally, get yourself a good ankara bag or two that you can rock to the office. Ankara laptop bags as well as backpacks are also a good way to represent your African heritage in style.
Credit: Instagram
Stitching Together Our Past: How Fashion Can Preserve Our Cultural Heritage
Fashion can be a powerful way to connect with our past and preserve our cultural heritage. Traditional clothing can help us learn about the history and traditions of a particular culture.
Fashion can also be used to raise awareness of cultural issues and promote cultural diversity. In this article, we will explore how fashion can be used to preserve cultural heritage.
