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Miss Côte d’Ivoire 2025: A Groundbreaking Move Toward Celebrating Natural African Beauty
The Miss Côte d’Ivoire 2025 beauty pageant has made a significant policy change that is sparking conversations across Africa and beyond. For the first time ever, the pageant has banned wigs, weaves, and any form of hair extensions during its preselection stages. This bold decision is reshaping beauty standards and embracing authenticity, signaling a shift toward a celebration of natural African beauty.
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A New Era for African Beauty
The new rule, which requires contestants to showcase their natural hair, marks a landmark moment for the pageant industry. Whether styled in braids, natural curls, or even shaved, contestants will now be judged based on their true, unaltered selves. This move is not just about hair—it’s about the powerful message of authenticity and self-acceptance.
One of the key influences behind this decision is Marlène Kouassi, the 2022 winner, who made waves with her short natural hair. Kouassi’s victory demonstrated that natural beauty could shine on the pageant stage, inspiring the pageant’s organizers to formalize this shift in policy. By celebrating natural hair, Miss Côte d’Ivoire seeks to encourage contestants to embrace their uniqueness and cultural identity, making it a standout pageant that speaks directly to African heritage.
The Controversy and Mixed Reactions
While the decision has been largely praised by those who advocate for self-acceptance and natural beauty, it has also stirred debate. Critics argue that the ban may limit personal expression and force contestants to conform to a specific image of beauty. Many believe that beauty is subjective and personal choices, such as wearing wigs or weaves, should not be restricted.
Despite the controversies, the pageant’s organizers are steadfast in their vision. Victor Yapobi, the lead of the organizing committee, has emphasized that this initiative is about redefining beauty standards, not limiting personal freedom. It is a call to embrace the diversity of African hair textures and styles, and to challenge the dominance of Western beauty standards.
Other Policy Changes for Miss Côte d’Ivoire 2025
Alongside the hair policy change, the Miss Côte d’Ivoire 2025 pageant has also introduced new adjustments to ensure inclusivity. The minimum height requirement for contestants has been lowered from 1.68 meters to 1.67 meters, and the age limit has been extended to 28 years. These changes reflect a more diverse and inclusive approach to the competition, allowing a broader range of contestants to participate.
A Step Towards Cultural Pride
The decision to ban wigs and weaves is not only about pageantry but also about celebrating the natural beauty inherent to African culture. It signals a deeper movement toward cultural pride and reclaiming the narrative surrounding African beauty. By focusing on natural hair, Miss Côte d’Ivoire 2025 hopes to inspire not only pageant participants but also African women worldwide to embrace their roots and feel proud of their identity.
As we look ahead to the crowning of Miss Côte d’Ivoire 2025 on June 26, 2025, this rule change is poised to set a new benchmark for beauty pageants across the continent. Whether the world agrees with the decision or not, there’s no denying the impact it will have on the future of beauty standards in Africa.
This shift towards natural beauty is just one of the many ways the pageant is redefining African pageantry. As Miss Côte d’Ivoire leads the charge, it is sure to inspire future beauty queens to embrace their authentic selves, while sparking important discussions about beauty, culture, and self-empowerment.
What are your thoughts on this change? Do you think pageants should embrace natural beauty over stylized hair? Share your opinions in the comments below!
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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.
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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.
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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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