Questions to Ask Before You Make That Fashion Purchase

You’re in a bustling London boutique, holding a vibrant Ankara print blazer. It’s gorgeous, but is it a smart buy? Whether you’re in New York, Paris, or Toronto, making savvy fashion purchases as an African in the diaspora requires more than just a good eye

For Africans in the diaspora, fashion is a powerful tool. It’s how we carry a piece of home with us, how we stand out in a sea of Western styles, and how we bridge our dual identities. 

But let’s be real – we’ve all been guilty of impulse buys that end up collecting dust. That kente cloth dress that’s too formal for daily wear? The oversized adire shirt that looked cool on the mannequin but swamps your frame? We’ve been there.

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Making informed fashion purchases isn’t just about looking good; it’s about investing wisely in pieces that tell your unique story. So, before you splash out on that next item, arm yourself with these ten questions.

Budget and Value

Question 1: “Is this within my ‘fashion allowance’?”

Be brutally honest. If that $500 designer aso-oke-inspired handbag will eat up your entire month’s discretionary budget, pause. 

Consider setting aside a specific amount each month for fashion purchases. For example, if you earn $4000 a month, perhaps $200-$300 could be your fashion fund. This way, you can splurge occasionally without guilt.

Question 2: “What’s the cost-per-wear of this item?”

Let’s do the math. A $150 versatile Ankara print wrap dress you’ll wear twice a month for a year costs about $6.25 per wear. 

Compare that to a $50 trendy t-shirt you’ll wear twice before it goes out of style – that’s $25 per wear. Suddenly, the dress seems like the smarter fashion purchase, doesn’t it?

Question 3: “Will this still be stylish next year?”

Trends are fleeting, but style endures. That beaded Maasai-inspired collar necklace might be all the rage now, but will it still feel fresh next season? On the other hand, a well-cut black blazer with subtle African print lining could serve you for years.

Quality and Material

Question 4: “What’s the fabric composition?”

Don’t just admire the print – check the label. A 100% cotton African wax print shirt will breathe better and last longer than a polyester blend, especially in warmer climates. For cooler diaspora locations, consider wool blends for winter wear – they’re warm and durable.

Question 5: “How well is this constructed?”

Examine the stitching closely. Are the seams straight and even? Are buttons securely attached? For African-inspired jewelry, check if the stones are well-set and the clasps are sturdy. 

Quality construction means your fashion purchase will withstand regular wear and cultural events where you’ll want to showcase your heritage.

Question 6: “Is this comfortable enough for my lifestyle?”

That figure-hugging mermaid-style Ankara dress might look stunning, but can you sit comfortably in it during long community meetings? Consider your daily activities. If you’re always on the go, opt for breathable fabrics and relaxed fits that allow movement.

Versatility and Fit

Question 7: “Can I style this for multiple occasions?”

Versatility is key, especially when incorporating African styles into a Western wardrobe. Can that bold print shirt work for both a casual brunch and a cultural festival? 

Perhaps paired with jeans for the former and dressed up with slacks for the latter? The more styling options, the better the fashion purchase.

Question 8: “Does this truly complement my body type?”

African fashion often celebrates curves, but not every style suits every body type. Does that high-waisted wrapper accentuate your waist or cut you off awkwardly? Remember, African beauty standards may differ from Western ones – choose what makes you feel confident.

Question 9: “Will this integrate with my existing wardrobe?”

Before making a fashion purchase, visualize at least three outfits you can create with items you already own. That stunning beaded collar might be a showstopper, but if it only goes with one dress in your closet, it might not be the best investment.

Ethical and Sustainable Considerations

Question 10: Does this purchase support African artisans or sustainable practices?

In the diaspora, our fashion purchases can be a way to give back. Does the brand source directly from African artisans? 

Do they use sustainable practices like natural dyes or upcycled materials? Brands like AAKS (Ghana) for raffia bags or Uniform (Liberia) for basics are great examples of ethical African fashion.

Conclusion: Questions to Ask Before You Make That Fashion Purchase

There you have it – 10 hard-hitting questions to guide your next fashion purchase. By considering budget, quality, versatility, and ethics, you’re not just buying clothes; you’re curating a wardrobe that tells your unique diaspora story.

Remember, as Africans in the diaspora, our fashion choices are powerful. They’re a way to honor our heritage, express our evolving identity, and sometimes, educate others about our culture. So make each fashion purchase count!

Next time you’re eyeing that beautiful African-inspired piece in a London boutique or a New York department store, take a moment to run through these questions.

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