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How Kenyan fashion businesses are coping with COVID-19
COVID-19 is grossly affecting the fashion industry. There are myriads of shuttered production houses, the distribution chain has been compromised, leaving small business owners without decent revenue streams.
Vic Drabicky, CEO of agency January Digital told Glossy that “the most at-risk brands are newer brands that don’t have the cash flow or credit lines to be able to sustain a complete closure of what could be a couple weeks or more…sadly, we’re going to end up losing some young brands that were showing great promise and some more tenured brands that simply couldn’t adapt to the extreme circumstances.”
Those that do not have cash flow to invest in virtual styling, large scale adoption of new technologies and a radical shit from operating on location to online will most probably not survive.
While other regions like the United States and Europe have activated stimulus packages, the situation is dire in Africa. In Kenya, the government, through its fashion council has mobilized fashion designers, raw material suppliers and other players to ramp up production of face masks locally.
This will serve as a way to help the creative fashion industry survive, while helping in the fight against the pandemic. The key to survival has been adapting to tough times with innovative ways. They are learning from global brands which are leaders in the fashion business. Some companies like LVMH, L’Oreal, Mango, Burberry, Chanel and others are leading the fight against COVID-19.
Thus, they are providing value to customers. As of 3rd April 2020, the Kenyan government had approved mass manufacturing of face masks to help curb the pandemic.
“We shall start producing and distributing face masks across the country. The masks will be made available to the public with the help of chiefs and bodaboda (motorcycle) operators,” Health Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe said.
Business owners are also adapting to the ‘work from home’ directive, only doing deliveries upon request. Companies like Uber, Bolt and Safeboda have come in handy as their riders are helping the businesses run on survival mode.
The worst case scenario would be if the country comes into total lock down, something which has been an ongoing conversation, considering the recent curfew reinforcement has not been 100% effective.
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So what do the next few months look like? There is a lot of uncertainity. However, there are ways that small business owners can still operate remotely. Through our sister publication African Vibes, we have compiled a list of amazing stuff that you can do to generate income. From starting a niche blog to a YouTube channel, there are a good number of creative ways you can use to sustain your fashion business.
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Elevate Your Summer Wardrobe with These 10 Afro Luxe Accessory
Summer is the perfect time to infuse your wardrobe with vibrant energy, cultural pride, and bold elegant Accessory. Whether you’re heading to a beachside brunch, a destination wedding, or a city rooftop soirée, the right accessory can take your outfit from simple to stunning.
At I Wear African, we believe fashion is a form of storytelling, and every accessory should speak volumes about your heritage and personal style. Ready to turn heads all summer long?
Here are 10 Afro Luxe Accessories that add royalty, richness, and roots to your summer fashion.
1. Beaded Jewelry Sets
From the intricate Maasai chokers of Kenya to the delicate waist beads of the Yoruba people, African beadwork tells stories of lineage, femininity, spirituality, and strength. These pieces are not just decorative — they’re sacred, symbolic, and often handmade by women artisans who pass the craft down generations.
Style Ideas:
- Pair layered beaded necklaces with a crisp white linen dress or a brightly printed Ankara co-ord set.
- Add matching beaded earrings and a stacked bracelet set to complete a bold, colorful ensemble.
- Waist beads can be worn under sheer kaftans or crop tops for a hint of sensual elegance.
🖤 Look to Pair With: A strapless Kente dress or a solid-toned maxi to let the beads shine.
2. Cowrie Shell Belts
Cowries were once used as currency across West Africa — today, they remain powerful symbols of wealth, femininity, and divine connection. When used in belts, they lend a sacred, grounded elegance to any outfit.
How to Style:
- Wrap a cowrie belt around a flowy Ankara kimono or a silky kaftan for a boho-royal vibe.
- Use it to cinch the waist of a plain cotton sundress or a batik wrap dress.
- Pair with layered necklaces, large hoops, and flat sandals for a goddess-inspired beach look.
🌊 Look to Pair With: A sheer dashiki top, denim shorts, and strappy sandals for festival flair.
3. Handwoven Fans
Beyond function, handwoven African fans — particularly those from Ghana’s Bolgatanga region — are iconic cultural staples. Their vibrant colors and basket-style weaving reflect craftsmanship rooted in tradition.
How to Style:
- Carry one as a handheld accessory during outdoor weddings, garden parties, or cultural events.
- Match the fan to your bag or wrap for a coordinated look.
- Use as a wall decor piece between wears — they’re that beautiful.
🌿 Look to Pair With: A breezy, floor-length Bazin or tie-dye boubou and gold drop earrings.
4. Turbans & Headwraps
Turbans and headwraps (also known as geles or duku) are crown-worthy staples in Afrocentric fashion. Beyond their utility in protecting natural hair, they symbolize cultural pride and spiritual elegance.
Wrap Styling Tips:
- Use bold Ankara or Adire print fabric to add drama to any outfit.
- A silk-lined headwrap keeps hair moisturized while offering a rich finish.
- Experiment with styles: a high front knot, low side tie, or full hair wrap depending on your mood.
🧡 Look to Pair With: Off-the-shoulder tops or halter Ankara jumpsuits — wrap on top, statement earrings below.
5. Handmade Leather Sandals
From the souks of Marrakech to the artisan markets of Nairobi, African leatherwork is some of the finest in the world. Look for sandals detailed with beads, dyed leathers, bronze medallions, or batik fabric.
How to Style:
- Match with a mudcloth midi dress or a Sotho-inspired tunic and shorts.
- Layer with beaded anklets and a bronze toe ring for added detail.
- Neutral-tone leather sandals go beautifully with vibrant summer dresses.
🌍 Look to Pair With: Moroccan kaftans, printed wrap skirts, or Kitenge palazzo pants.
6. Statement Earrings
Big, bold, and unapologetically African — from wooden Africa-shaped cutouts to brass goddess heads — Afrocentric earrings are wearable art.
Style Ideas:
- Pair large earrings with minimalist clothing like monochrome jumpsuits or solid-color maxi dresses.
- Match earring color to one tone in your outfit for cohesion.
- If you’re going for full glam, add a headwrap, bold lipstick, and highlight that glow!
📸 Look to Pair With: A sleeveless Kente top or bandeau paired with high-waist wax print trousers.
7. Beaded Anklets
A subtle but sensual addition to your accessory collection, beaded Jewelry anklets are worn for beauty, spiritual protection, and feminine energy in many African cultures.
How to Style:
- Pair with leather sandals, open-toe heels, or even barefoot on the beach.
- Layer a few on one ankle for a bohemian Afro goddess vibe.
- Wear with linen pants slightly rolled up or flowing skirts that show off the ankle.
✨ Look to Pair With: A side-slit Ankara wrap skirt or chiffon midi dress.
8. African Print Tote Bags
A wax print tote is more than just a bag — it’s a portable art piece. Whether crafted from Ankara, mudcloth, or shweshwe fabric, these totes are vibrant, durable, and stylish.
How to Style:
- Carry with a solid-colored outfit to let the bag be your centerpiece.
- Use as a weekend bag, beach tote, or laptop carrier — functional and fabulous.
- Add a matching headwrap or earrings for a put-together look.
👜 Look to Pair With: A white crochet top and batik culottes, or a simple tank and jeans.
9. Bronze & Brass Cuff Bracelets
Inspired by ancient Benin Kingdom bronzes and Tuareg silversmith traditions, these cuffs are regal and rooted. Handmade by African artisans, they reflect strength and status.
How to Style:
- Stack two cuffs or wear one chunky piece on each wrist for queen energy.
- Pair with high-neck wax print dresses or sleeveless silhouettes.
- Bronze jewelry complements earth tones, emerald greens, and deep reds.
👑 Look to Pair With: A sleeveless Adire gown or minimalist silk halter top.
10. Sunglasses with African Flair
Yes, sunnies can be Afro luxe too! Whether it’s a pair made with Ankara-covered frames, Afro-futurist shapes, or horn-rimmed biodegradable materials, they’re the finishing touch to your summer slay.
Style Suggestions:
- Bold cat-eye sunglasses with a beaded choker and crop top.
- Oversized round frames with a floaty off-the-shoulder dashiki dress.
- For editorial drama, pair with a turban and bronze makeup glow.
😎 Look to Pair With: A high-waist Ankara bikini and flowing kimono for poolside royalty.
Final Thoughts
When you wear African accessories, you’re not just completing an outfit — you’re celebrating stories, traditions, and craftsmanship that span generations. From Lagos to Lusaka, Nairobi to New York, Afro luxe is always in season.
Ready to level up your summer wardrobe? Embrace these stunning pieces that blend culture with couture.
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Top 30 African Print Swimwear Trends for 2025
Summer is the perfect time to wear colors and bold patterns, and what better way to do that than with African Print Swimwear? These swimsuits not only celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Africa but also offer a stylish and unique twist on traditional African Print Swimwear.
From the intricate geometric designs of Kente to the timeless beauty of Ankara, African prints are making waves in the fashion world. If you’re looking to stand out by the pool or on the beach, here are seven stunning African print swimsuits that are sure to elevate your summer style.
ALSO READ: 10 Travel Essentials With An Afrocentric Twist!
ALSO READ: Dazzle With An African Accessory
African Print Swimwear is more than just a fashion statement—it’s a celebration of culture, heritage, and the artistry of African textiles. Whether you’re lounging poolside or enjoying the waves at the beach, these swimsuits allow you to express your individuality while honoring African traditions.
So, this summer, let your swimsuit do the talking and embrace the beauty and boldness of African prints. Your next favorite African Print Swimwear look is just one vibrant pattern away!
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26 Best African Print Dresses for Women
Looking to turn heads and express your vibrant style? African print dresses—also known as Ankara, Kitenge, or Wax print dresses—are the perfect blend of tradition, elegance, and modern flair. From bold patterns to timeless silhouettes, these iconic designs celebrate the richness of African culture while offering show-stopping looks for every occasion.
Whether you’re dressing up for a wedding, brunch, or just want to stand out in everyday wear, this curated list of the 26 best African print dresses for women will give you all the fashion inspiration you need. Explore trending styles, discover your perfect fit, and shop standout pieces that bring heritage to life.
ALSO READ: Ankara Print Bomber Jacket
ALSO READ: Stylish Afrocentric African Print Couples Matching Set
African print dresses are more than just fashion—they’re a statement of identity, beauty, and culture. From flowing maxi gowns to chic mini dresses and tailored midis, the styles featured in this list highlight the creativity of African designers and the timeless appeal of bold prints.
Whether you’re going for regal, casual, or red-carpet-ready, there’s something here for every woman who wants to embrace her roots with style. Ready to upgrade your wardrobe? Don’t just wear a dress—wear a story. Shop your favorite look and let your outfit speak volumes.
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