Did you know? African fashion designers will be in the mainstream spotlight in 2022, according to The Economist. This forecast presents a good chance for you to get some authentic African clothing for yourself. To help you, I recently created a shopping guide that highlights African fashion brands in Canada. Of course, I have been blogging about designers and fashion brands from the continent even before it became widely popular. It is exciting to see that more people are interested in the clothing and are learning about the culture but it is also crucial not to relegate our support for African fashion to just a particular season or year. African fashion deserves our attention and recognition at all times, even when it is no longer trending. That’s why this shopping guide is so important. To download the e-book, click here!
Overview: African fashion brands in Canada
This e-book on African fashion brands helps to highlight some amazing creatives who are using fabrics, designs and other inspiration from the continent in their work. Many years ago, it wasn’t easy finding where to purchase African fashion online. In some cases, and depending on where you are located, the clothing is still not easy to come by unless you have a designer located in the Diaspora near you. I can imagine there are many others who would love to lay their hands on the clothes or accessories and adorn themselves with it, especially to be worn for summer outings or during special occasions such as Black History Month due to its overall cultural significance. Well, look no further! This e-book has a listing of brands that you can read up on, research and consider for your African fashion shopping experience.
Support Black-owned brands and small business
Supporting our Black-owned brands and minority-owned small businesses is very important. However, we should aim to support them not just because we want to check off a box on our to-do list and say “we’re done” but we ought to do this in a genuine and authentic way that translates into the love and trust we have for them. Note these brands are at different stages of their business journey and brand evolution. As you browse through the list of brands in this e-book, research will be your best friend. You can click through to each brand’s website and social media to consider their online presence, which can also inform your decision to purchase. When you stretch your currency towards these brands, you are also helping to stimulate the Canadian economy and keep the small businesses thriving!
Celebrate Black culture by giving back to community
Not only are you celebrating Black culture by purchasing from an African fashion brand, you are giving back to the community. Some African fashion brands partner with local artisans and crafters on the continent to make their goods, which are then produced and shipped to Canada to meet the sales demand. These local and skilled communities in countries across Africa are then positively impacted through fair wages and ethical business practices that provide a source of livelihood for themselves and their families. Therefore, when you make a purchase from some of these brands who work with makers, you are not just keep one person and a business alive. You are also helping to sustain an entire community and everyone along the supply chain from the country in Africa all the way to Canada will get to benefit from your support.
Here are some reviews from readers of the e-book
“The e-book transports me back to my trips to Africa with all the beautiful, striking colours. It also connects me with finding those hidden gems, styles and brands that I didn’t otherwise know of.”
– Nicole Green
“What a great resource! It reveals the rich culture and vibrant colours of African fashion. Visit each brand to discover all the boldness, creativity, distinction, and authenticity.”
– Ugonma Ekeanyanwu
“This shopping guide is a breath of fresh air! It is like a go-to directory for African fashion lovers and anyone who wants to shop sustainably while supporting local businesses.”
– Elaine Kapogines
“I really love Jamila’s style and most of all her unique approach. It was fun to learn that there’s a high end African fashion boutique in my old Toronto hangout!”
– Irene Panchuk
To download the e-book, click here!
I’m a seasoned communications and marketing consultant with a penchant for all things stylish and chic. Follow me on social media and subscribe to the newsletter for regular updates on industry trends and much more!