How to Get the African Look

Is there a distinct and increasingly popular African look that everyone now wants to associate with? Ever since the release of movies like Black Panther, more people have begun to become aware of the beautiful fashion and design aesthetic that hails from different countries on the continent especially West Africa. Hence, we can conclude that it is no news that the African look is very trendy. Even celebrities such as Beyonce have looked to the continent for fashion inspiration and style choices to influence their vibrant wardrobes. But is there really an African look and if yes, what is it? Better yet, how can one get the look? Keep reading to find out.

Image source

There are many types of African looks because the continent is full of many different countries which although share some similarities, each has their own culture and distinct way of dressing. For example there is the Egyptian “Cleopatra” look and there is the “African Queen” look which is mainly West African and so forth. However, with the advent of afrofuturism, even those depictions are changing. There is not only one distinct African look, it varies greatly from one region to another and from one generation to the next. Some looks are more modern while others are traditional and some even futuristic. However, depending on whatever style of look you are going for, there are a variety of options to choose from. Outlined below are a few general tips to help you channel in our inner African when dressing up.

Wear statement necklaces

When it comes to that thing around your neck, you really want to go for something that stands out. That way you get to make a statement about who you are and what you represent. The U.S. based brand TruFacebyGrace sells some amazing necklaces for women that speaks volumes when worn. The African woman is hardworking and full of virtue. She knows exactly who she is, where she came from and where she is headed. Therefore, she is not afraid to make a bold statement with her choice of necklace.

Go for bold colours

Life is too short to wear boring clothes in drab looking colours. Your present and future is like a plain white canvas waiting to be painted upon. You are the painter and your sense of style is the brush. Why choose shades of dark and grey when you can opt for a rainbow? Believe it or not but colour blocking is still a big deal in the fashion world and when done properly, it can look extremely classy. DNA by Iconic Invanity is known for pairing her colours together so well that her collections always scream “wear me please.”

Bigger is always better

This is true when it comes to jewellery is better. The phrase “less is more” completely does not apply here. I understand that sometimes it is necessary to be modest but unless you work in a very corporate setting, there is no reason why you cannot wear big jewellery such as chunky bangles or bracelets. In Africa, wearing chunky gold jewellery has always been associated with wealth, power and respect. now, it doesn’t always have to be gold. You can do the same with silver or wooden jewellery as well.

Invest in African prints

This complements the tip above about colour blocking. African prints come in an array of colours, shapes and patterns. One way to immediately look like an African… well, at least a West African is to wear one of these prints. The fabrics are so representative of the African identity so much so that all you need to do is adorn yourself with the cloth and the rest as they say is actually history.

Embrace the headwrap

Wearing a headwrap with your outfit be it African-looking or not is like putting the icing on a cake. You can wear a headwrap on almost anything, even a suit and it will look great. In many countries, the headwrap is a sign of royalty and not just religion alone. It signals virtue and is a symbol of power amongst many women of African heritage.

Jamila Kyari

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!

Find me on: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook