Posts tagged “africa”

Africa- The prom queen for global trade and investment. My thoughts about @ChukaUmunna’s visit to #LCCINigeria

Posted on May 14, 2013

This week the shadow business secretary of UK’s Labour Party; Chuka Umunna, is to leading a joint LCCI and UKTI North West trade mission to Nigeria and Ghana.

Taking place between 13^th-17^th of May, the LLCI is London’s largest and most representative business organisation, with members ranging in size from multi-national companies to SMEs and sole traders; and coinciding with UKTI’s export week, designed to help businesses export. It was a fitting time to discuss how the UK can go forward in developing business partnerships in a range of emerging markets, with West Africa being one of them.

“The primary message I want to give to the business community, Government and everybody in Lagos and beyond, is that the UK is speaking in one voice when it says that it wants to be part of Nigeria’s growth agenda.” Chuka Umunna

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In my recent post discussing the growth of Africa’s luxury fashion industry, I described that at 6%, Africa’s GDP growth rate has surpassed that of Asia – making it the world’s fastest-growing continent and a promising target for emerging-market investors, accompanied by a burgeoning middle class with a rising disposable income. Therefore it was encouraging to hear Chuka Umunna warn ministers against the over concentration on bigger emerging BRIC economies, therefore missing trade opportunities in Africa.

“As Europe’s economies struggle to see any growth the IMF expects Nigeria’s economy to grow by 7% next year alone,” he added. “The Nigerian middle class is growing fast. With it is coming rapid growth in demand for consumer goods. The export opportunities for British firms are vast and growing.”

Umunna identified Nigeria, Ghana, Mozambique and Ethiopia as four of the biggest growth markets in sub-Saharan Africa, none of which currently feature in the top 30 destinations for UK exports. Moreover, Government figures show that in 2012, only five African countries featured in the top 50 list of markets for UK exported goods – South Africa (22), Nigeria (34), Senegal (40), Egypt (41) and Morocco (46).

In the first decade of this century, China’s trade with Nigeria increased by a phenomenal 800%, and I’m not surprised that Britain is beginning to feel left out of the fun.

However, in more informal settings I’ve discussed with friends and peers that China’s relationship has been more transactional, unlike that of Britain, where a history of exploitation and dominance has set the tone for business relationships. With the threat of Britain falling behind what has been described as the ‘energetic approach of the Chinese’, I am interested to see how trade between Africa and Britain, will take shape under this shifting paradigm, and if and/or how Africa will exercise its bargaining power under its shifting position.

https://twitter.com/ChukaUmunna/statuses/333930167418368000

Abidjan + Paris | LAURENCEAIRLINE | Swinging Koutoukou 2013 @LaurenceAirline @StudioAfrica

Posted on May 8, 2013

Founded in 2010 by Laurence Chauvin-Buthaud, LAURENCEAIRLINE is a menswear label and conscious project based between Abidjan and Paris. Laurence Chauvin-Buthaud is also one of the talents of Studio Africa, celebrating and promoting creativity in Africa.

http://www.laurenceairline.com/brand.htm

LaurenceAirline brings together a path between cultures drawing contemporary timeless basic silhouettes with deep African roots. Re-imagining the African continent’s cultural inheritance in a way that fashion and ethnic cultures can successfully collaborate to create possibilities for the future is the driving force behind LaurenceAirline. The entire line is made in accordance with conscious and sustainable manufacturing practices in LaurenceAirline’s workshop in Ivory Coast, where local people are trained to produce high quality garments following international standard. Valuing bold aesthetics and sustainable development, the label merges creativity coming from Africa with the sophisticated standards of modern societal way of life. In that frame, worldwide sold LaurenceAirline’s collections help build Africa’s modern reality into the international fashion scene.

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COLLECTION SS13

… and what is Koutoukou?

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With typical panache, LaurenceAirline has named her third collection after a tropical drink from the Ivory Coast, Koutoukou.

LaurenceAirline has also, once again, created marvellous pieces out of Wax Cotton. This season it’s festooned with fan patterns, baroque Moroccan frescoes and Japanese etchings . These two exquisite fabrics come together in an explosion of complementary hues. She plays with the contrasts and connections between the textures, setting off the sheen of the Bazin against the cotton poplins and colourful matt wax prints. Added to the mix are the perfectly mastered subtleties of LaurenceAirline, such as the vintage style yokes with a dog wallpaper pattern sewn into the shirts and the cornelian embroidery details which embellish the ‘Face’ shirt. The designer hasn’t forgotten her little nod to women’s wear and over-sized shirts with multi-coloured cut-outs complete the collection. These are accompanied by a selection of high-waisted shorts and cigarette trousers, available in block coloured Bazin and printed Wax. Combining artisanal techniques with contemporary shapes, this third springtime collection is imbued with a variety of favourite motifs. With a fresh, nonchalant and urban silhouette this is ready-to-wear for the zeitgeist man.

Click on an image to scroll through the gallery

From her workshop base in Abidjan, the Laurenceairline collection is now entirely manufactured by local workers that Laurence has trained up.

“I think about Africa and I see people that have a lot of talent but they don’t have the opportunity to learn properly some stuff and I also came from the same background. I came to Africa and I just knew a few things but for them it’s amazing things and I really feel that what I know can help. I really feel that altogether we make something good. That makes me feel alive and makes me feel that I would love to continue.”.

What’s your…

BIGGEST INSPIRATION?

“I am inspired by people living in their clothes rather than a constructed fashion influence. It is the attitude and spirit that an individual gives a garment through the way that they wear it.”

DREAM CREATIVE PROJECT?

“Create a cultural centre where people from different backgrounds and with different skills can come together to exchange ideas.”

COTE D’IVOIRE’S BEST-KEPT SECRET?

“Man is a village in the north of the Cote d’Ivoire that is definitely worth a visit. There is a beautiful tradition in handcraft and the town is in the middle of the forest, with a magical story, incredible waterfalls and mountains.”

Back to paperbacks: Top three books I haven’t finished yet

Posted on May 7, 2013

“Classic’ – a book which people praise and don’t read.”

― Mark Twain

Like many, I suffer a condition which is a product of my impatience; I am always reading too many books at once.

Do you have a book on your bedside, another in the bathroom, one at work, and another at the ready for your daily commute? All of which have been marked at around 15-25% into the narrative, only to exist as guilty reminder of your failed endeavours?

You would think that the delights of owning an eBook means that the hardback book you love, but feels like you’re lugging bag of sand, along with the thriller you’re saving for the quiet evening you never have, can be contained into one nifty little device.

I raise my hands to the sky in despair as I exclaim “No! this is not the case”

Easy eBooks have only made my reading habits harder than carrying a hardback, as it’s too easy to order books online and I’m often tempted to buy more books than I need. So whereas in ‘the good ol’ days’, one might have been tackling two or three books at a time, it is now six or seven. And the feeling of guilt only builds; will I ever finish any of them?

So I’ve given my eReader a rest, and I’m back to juggling a handful of paperbacks, rather than a dozen of eBooks…

Here are three paperbacks I am reading, recommend and intend to finish before 2030.

THE 50TH LAW: 50 CENT & ROBERT GREENE

Robert Greene’s blog- http://powerseductionandwar.com/

The 50th Law is a New York Times bestselling book on strategy and fearlessness written collaboratively by rapper 50 Cent and author Robert Greene. The book is a semi-autobiographical account detailing 50 Cent’s rise as both a young urban hustler and as an up-and-coming musician with lessons and anecdotes from historical figures such as Abraham Lincoln, Sun Tzu, Socrates, Napoleon, Malcolm X, and James Baldwin.

The majestic (almost holy) book cover gets a bit of attention on the commute home, until the word ’50 Cent’ is seen, they my fellow passengers roll their eyes in abhorrence.

Truthfully, the references to the life and times of Curtis Jackson (aka 50 Cent) do not add much value, besides the obvious shock factor that 50 Cent could actually write a book (which in this case I even doubt he did). Nonetheless, It’s Robert Greene’s perspective and ability to articulate the perils of human nature whilst highlighting the steps and attitude needed to be a fearless and calculated and entrepreneurial person that makes this book worth the read.

Definitely an inspirational read, even if you’re not a 50 Cent fan, and probably best if you’re not.

EAT.SLEEP.SHOP- THE LONDON GUIDE, SASKA GRAVILLE

Follow Saska Graville on Twitter- @SasAtRedMag

On book I love to delve into before what I hope will be a free weekend of travelling and discovering.

In the London Guide, Saskia Graville, also deputy editor of Red Magazine, takes you on a journey into small, stylish and off the radar places across the city. London can be big and overwhelming, and there are many guide books directing you to the key trophy sights of the city. London Style Guide breaks it down by village, and reveals the places that the locals love.

My best bit of the book is the Meet The Londoner section, which interviews shop and café owners, showcasing their favourite local haunts. It’s beautifully presented and highly illustrated with photographs of all listings, including venues interiors, food, fashion and accommodation; comprehensive content with map references, address and website listings that is practical for visitors and locals alike.

It’s London up close and personal.

ON BLACK GIRLS STREET, CHIKA UNIGWE

Chika Unigwe Online- http://www.chikaunigwe.com/

I am finding this book very powerful, as it talks of something which is at the essence of my interest: Afropean culture, and the exploration of African’s living in Europe as a sub culture within itself. The novel tells the haunting story of four very different women who have left their African homeland for the riches of Europe—and who are thrown together by bad luck and big dreams. They offer their bodies to strangers but their hearts to no one, each focused on earning enough to get herself free, to send money home, or to save up for her own future.

Aside from its thrilling storyline so far, the novel celebrates the talent of Chika Unigwe, a brilliant new writer and a standout voice among contemporary African authors.

Talking African luxury brands with @AriseTV -”Africa is rising, so please; do not deprive us of our expensive taste”

Posted on April 18, 2013

Last week I had the honour of being called to report on the rise of African fashion for Arise TV (Sky Channel 234), a leading global media network devoted to championing voices of the African diaspora across the globe.

The topic for discussion was high fashion in Africa, using Tanzanian designer Sheria Ngowi as a case study. The feature celebrated the progression of Africa’s luxury fashion brands, whilst also deliberating over whether Africans living in the continent can in fact afford them.

Can Africans afford African luxury brands in Africa?

The immediate response to this quandary was yes. There is no denying that several of Africa’s markets are weak, not only because of weak infrastructure in terms of roads and communications but due to the absence of necessary market institutions, such as market information and reliable ways to connect buyers to sellers. Nevertheless, at 6%, Africa’s GDP growth rate has surpassed that of Asia – making it the world’s fastest-growing continent and a promising target for emerging-market investors, accompanied by a burgeoning middle class with a rising disposable income.

Out of what I can imagine was nerves, I recalled that roughly 30% of Africans now live in cities, I was being modest! This is in fact, 40%, and is expected to rise to 50% by 2025.

(Ernst & Young (2012) Growing in Africa- Capturing the opportunity for global consumer products businesses)

Promoting aid not trade

Andrew Mwenda, (Managing Editor of Uganda’s Independent news magazine), neatly expressed in his TED Talk (2012) that Africa has immense opportunities that rarely navigate through the web of despair and helplessness that the Western media largely present to its audience. The effect of that presentation is that it appeals to sympathy, pity and something called charity. As a result, the western view of Africa is an economic dilemma framed wrongly.

I was asked in the interview whether we can expect to see Western fashion houses like Givenchy coming out of Africa. Of course, in fact, this is already happening. Last year I published a blog post on Vivien Westwood’s collection “This is not charity, this is work”. It was quite the double edged sword. At the time it was great exposure for fashion manufactured in Africa, however, in stating that ‘this is not charity’, Africa is once again branded with notions of aid, still guilty by past associations, and further perpetuating pity, rather than incentivising investment.

African fashion for Africans- The new frontier

Another one to Mwenda, who made me chuckle with one of his latest sentiments “Madonna, Bono and Clooney cannot save Africa, only Africans can”. In parallel to my support for campaigns such as Diesel’s Renzo Rosso, Ali Hewson and Bono’s creation DIESEL+EDUN (you can read my coverage on the collection here), these collections are sourced in and in celebration of Africa’s innovation, they are not targeted to African consumers residing in Africa.

Sheria Ngowi’s collection entitled ‘Year of the Gentleman’; is made by an African, in Africa, for Africans. The collection excels in quality and style, and Ngowi is joyfully unapologetic that his collection has a price tag to match, as he brags of no shortage of Tanzanian clientele.

Sheria Ngowi, modelling his collection ‘Year Of The Gentleman’

So with that said, let us encourage opportunities for Africans who are enterprising in the market, to be able to invest and trade with equally enterprising individuals from the western world, only then can you create opportunities of mutual benefit through innovation and private enterprise.

Waiting for the Western markets to set the benchmark for our taste will only strip us of our self-initiative.

It’s a personal choice of mine to source clothes and merchandise from existing and upcoming African creatives, as opposed to waiting for TOPSHOP or H&M’s next ‘tribal’, ‘safari’ or ‘out of Africa’ repeat collections. As Africans we need to tell our own stories, as waiting for the Western markets to set the benchmark for our taste will only strip us of our self-initiative.

I am not ignorant of Africa’s fundamental weaknesses, but I am more motivated by its opportunities and potential, and the growing enthusiasm from Africans across the globe to reframe the challenges facing Africa; as challenges of dependency and lack, become challenges of opportunity and wealth creation. Especially within the arts as film-makers, novelists, designers, musicians and other artists thrive in a new climate of hope.

In summary,

Whilst Western communities continue to live beyond their means at the expense of developing nations, Africa is the world’s fastest growing continent, with an economy likely to take the lead over the next five years. With an expanding disposable income, coupled with a middle class that has tripled over the last 30 years, and set to grow by (42%) by 2060. Africa is indeed rising, so please; do not deprive us of our expensive taste!

All comments welcome, and thanks to Arise TV for a the opportunity to give my two cents. For any further questions feel free to drop me an email afroblush@outlook.com

The significance of food within culture- ‘Successful living’ meets ‘Ghana Be Tasty’ @GhanaKitchen @Diesel_UK @Grazia_Live

Posted on March 28, 2013

“despite food being something that is common to all of us,

it touches everything important to who we are as people.”

Over the last four weeks, Diesel’s Regent Street pop up store Diesel Village, has been my culture playground. From music, film, food and fashion, the store has been an insightful celebration of creativity, passion and spirit behind Diesel’s motto ‘For Successful Living’.

Leveraging the ‘Studio Africa’ campaign, Diesel, in association with Grazia, transformed the pop up store into an urban and authentic African dining space. The evening was a hub of tasty activity as Diesel teamed-up with Zoe’s Ghana Restaurant to create ‘The Chop Bar’ pop-up restaurant, followed by a live set from DJ Good Doggy, and a stunning performance by Parisian singer Jessica Fitoussi.

On the menu was a three course West African cuisine which fused traditional Ghanaian dishes with a contemporary dining experience. The food was home spun, home cooked, and set within a vibrant and laid back environment. On the night, Zoe and her team served traditional Ghanaian food including Zoe’s famous Peanut Butter Stew, Red Red, Fried Plantain, Yam Yam balls and more.

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WHAT I ATE

Appetizers:

Mini Mashed Yam Balls; Kpakpko Salsa, Scotch Bonnet Salsa and Shito sauce; Kelewele – Ginger and chilli plantain; Plantain Chips; Chin Chin Biscuits

Starters:

ZGK’s Moyin Terrine – (Terrine of Black Eye Beans w/shrimp, chicken & hard-boiled eggs and green peppers)

Mains:

Agushi – Palaver Sauce- (Stewed lamb with ground melon seeds and spinach)

Dessert:

Nkatse Cake- (Peanut Brittle with a scoop of vanilla ice-cream)

The food and drink of Africa reflect local influences, in addition to a glimpses of colonial food traditions, including use of food products like peppers, groundnuts and maize introduced by the colonizers. Generally speaking, sub-Saharan African cuisine is a combination of traditional fruits and vegetables, milk, and meat. Ghanaian main dishes unlike other cunalyes, are organized around a starchy staple such as rice, fufu, banku/etew, kenkey/dokonu, tuozafi, dzidzii, akplidzii, yakeyake, eto, akyeke, etc. with which a sauce or soup saturated with fish, meat or mushrooms are served.

So if you haven’t had West African (or African) food before, Zoe’s Ghana Restaurant is a great place to start!

For information about Zoe’s Ghana kitchen, check our her Facebook page. here.

My first time with palm wine…

As we were finishing our starters, we were introduced to a calabash bowl, which we were going to sip palm wine from. As cool and collected as I may have looked on my exterior, I was in fact dead excited. Palm wine is something I have only ever read about in African literature (my thoughts go back to when I read the Concubine by Elechi Amadi).

“The main thing was the payment of the bride price to the family of the deceased husband. Palm wine was tendered and gifts exchanged. The people regarded marriage as a highly respected institution” The Concubine, Elechi Amadi (1966)

So as the process of sipping palm wine from the calabash bowl was in full swing, the cultural significance of food had never been so apparent. Here I am, drink palm wine (which is still such a big deal for me), and passing it round across a vibrant selection of people who I have never met before, and despite our differences have all been brought together and are all drinking from one calabash. Although, it might sound quite whimsical, it was strange, and it was also beautiful.

It’s made me really think about the significance of food within culture, and despite food being something that is common to all of us, it touches everything important to who we are as people. It marks social differences and strengthens social bonds, and as societies change/merge/develop, so will our foods, and those who eat it.

I love how The Chop Bar emphasised how the fusion of foods and culture molds a society into a culturally diverse nation. It was a delightful opportunity to celebrate the culinary creativity coming out Africa and I strongly believe that through Diesel’s ability to fuse parts of African culture together, it provides an invitation into the different elements of the continents culture. Which I see sparking a global curiosity, which can provide exciting, entertaining and insightful cross cultural learning experiences.

Enjoy the rest of the pictures from the night ;-)

(Ladies from the night)

- (The amazing singer Jessica Fitoussi)

-(DJ Good Doggy on the 1′s+2′s)

-(For the less glamourous pictures follow me on instagram ;-) @afroblush)

Tonight I’m at The Chop Bar Ghanaian Pop-Up Restaurant #delicioustimes @GhanaKitchen @Diesel_UK

Posted on March 18, 2013

Tonight I have the pleasure of dining at The Chop Bar Ghanaian Pop-Up Restaurant; a delicious collaboration between Diesel and Zoe’s Ghana Kitchen, held at the Diesel Village concept store, Regent Street.

What better way to spend the evening but to bask in the laid-back vibe and flavour of home-spun, home cooked African food, off set by a private screening of Andrew Dosunmu’s film, Restless City? #thegoodlife

@Diesel_UK #DieselVillage – my spicy suya beef kebabs are hot! just sayin' x—
Zoe's Ghana Kitchen (@GhanaKitchen) March 18, 2013

Feel free to follow me for the night on Twitter at @afroblush, and find more commentary by using the hastags #DieselVillage #ChopBar

This spring I have been all over Diesel, it started as a love affair with their Edun collaboration and the introduction to Studio Africa; and has grown into a respect and appreciation of a brand that runs an amazing series of diverse destinations and understands itself as a lifestyle brand committed to building a great community online and offline. Alongside housing some of the most premium apparel, until April, Diesel Village, based in Regent Street are uncovering new and exciting aspects of their lifestyle brand by joining forces with guest creatives from the worlds of fashion, music, film and art to host a series of experimental events, live demonstrations and exhibitions exclusively for the Diesel Village community. They are vibrant, engaged and innovating, online, offline, in-store and out of store.

Saturday and Sunday saw the Diesel Village LIVE Radio, presenting musical legends and up coming talents from Africa and the West including Africa Express, Bill Brewster, DJ Edu, Shepdog, Soweto Kinch and Todd Hart.

Aj holmes in the house! #dieselvillage radio live #studioafrica sounds

Make room for DJ edu! Soulful and uplifting vibe here at #dieselvillage #studioafrica radio LIVE

I am sure you’ll enjoy even more of the Diesel features I will be bringing to you over the next few weeks, and pictures from tonight’s event will be up tomorrow ;-)

Diesel+EDUN-A global loudspeaker for a new African economic + creative paradigm @Diesel_UK @studio_africa @twEDUN

Posted on March 6, 2013

“The DIESEL+EDUN collaboration-

A global loudspeaker for the new African economic and creative paradigm”

Looking back to 2012, a common hash tag cited on twitter on several events such as Design Africa was #TradeNotAid, a fashionable slogan in its own right adopted decades ago by the United Nations Conference on Trade Development, but one that still sits true to this day, it’s about companies and designers working with Africa, not for it. Which is why I have been excited and inspired by the Diesel+EDUN collaboration.

Last night was the long awaited Diesel+EDUN collaboration launch party, which was part of a city wide celebration, from Paris to London and Amsterdam to Berlin. The Diesel+EDUN denim collection is born in Africa and inspired by African creativity. Most importantly the collection is sourced and manufactured in Africa with the finest cotton from the continent.

Using raw, untreated denim, the DIESEL+EDUN collection was built around a reinterpretation of the four-pocket jean of the 1970s popular on the streets of South Africa. Malian textile prints are echoed in the denim lining and across the jersey pieces in the collection. Embroidery details reference traditional Zulu weaving patterns, while the dresses feature Kenyan metalwork. Running through the collection are four original symbols designed to reflect the heart of the DIESEL+EDUN collection. In January 2012, DIESEL founder Renzo Rosso and EDUN founders Ali Hewson and Bono travelled to Uganda and Mali, where they shared their love of the continent and toured each other’s programs: DIESEL’s Only The Brave Foundation project in Dioro, Mali and EDUN’s Conservation Cotton Initiative (CCI) in Uganda. The experience encouraged them to join forces to further apparel trade and development in Africa under the name DIESEL+EDUN.

Diesel founder Renzo Rosso and EDUN founders Ali Hewson and Bono have joined forces and produced a collaboration that goes far beyond just fashion. The DIESEL+EDUN collaboration aims to engage a global audience with the passion of its founders to raise awareness of the creative opportunities in Africa and build sustainable trade with the continent through fashion – a global loudspeaker for the new African economic and creative paradigm.

An in-depth experience trip to Africa last season was the catalyst for them to develop a co-branded, co-designed collection; this project is meant to channel and give visibility to Africa’s incredible creativity – in style, in fabric, in craftsmanship and encourage, as I mentioned above: TRADE and not AID.

To bring the spirit of the collection to life, DIESEL+EDUN developed the concept of ‘Studio Africa’, described as virtual loudspeaker for a new generation of creative talents from across the continent. The campaign features nine artists in fashion, film, music, literature, and photography; individuals with both talent and a deep commitment to their respective countries and people. Curated and edited by OKAY AFRICA alongside Africa’s most creative, Studio Africa hosts inspirational, forward thinking creative work originating in or inspired by Africa.

I SEE A DIFFERENT YOU

(I See A Different You are a trio of photographers from Soweto, South Africa with an eye for style and ambition to show their continent in a whole new light.)

[Left]

YANNICK ILUNGA

(Petite Noir is the recording name of South Africa’s Yannick Ilunga who is championing a new musical movement)

[Right]

UVIWE MANGWENI

(Uviwe Mangweni is an endlessly curious photojournalist and copywriter from South Africa documenting hidden stories with sensitivity)

[Left]

ABDELLAH TAIA

(Abdellah Taïa is the first openly gay Moroccan writer and his celebrated books have been translated into several languages)

[Right]

FLAVIANA MATATA

(Flaviana Matata is an international catwalk model who runs a foundation for the education of orphaned girls in her home country of Tanzania)

BALOJI

(Baloji is a fiercely original and acclaimed rapper and producer born in DR Congo and raised in Belgium)

[Left]

LAURENCE CHAUVIN-BUTHAUD

(Laurence Chauvin-Buthaud is a rising menswear designer providing local workers in her birthplace of Côte d’Ivoire with skills and training)

[Right]

SY ALASSANE

(Sy Alassane is an actor and model from Senegal who played the lead in 2011’s Sundance Film Festival official selection Restless City)

TANYA MUSHAYI

(Tanya Mushayi is a talented surface pattern designer, stylist and blogger running her own business in Zimbabwe)

You can follow OK Africa on Tumblr here http://www.okayafrica.com/

To find out more about the collection follow:

Diesel UK - @Diesel_UK

EDUN- @twEdun

STUDIO AFRICA – @Studio_Africa

Okay Africa- @OKAYAFRICA

Beau Monde Society takes a F.U.N approach to fashion (Fashion.Understanding.Nature)

Posted on March 5, 2013

“ Bridging the gap between fashion, environment, and our lifestyle choices”

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The consumption of fashion has grown in recent years as prices of clothing have fallen largely due to a spending culture that encourages fast fashion with trends and clothing having an increasingly short life span. This has led to various ethical and environmental concerns within the framework of sustainability. Despite growing concerns being expressed about the future of eco-fashion, there continues to be little awareness of environmental issues related to ‘considerate design’; with self-righteous environmental attitudes rarely translating into action, with very few buying ethical/green fashion.

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Sensing the need for a sustainable platform to celebrate and promote sustainable fashion, Nigerian Born Jennifer Nnamani started the Beau Monde Society as a creative hub for artistic and fashion forward inclined individuals who view fashion not only as a career but as a raw art form. The Beau Monde Society represents designers who have a fashion forward perspective, who then curate fashion shows that are aligned with eco-related fashion, art, and music to address environmental issues through a F.U.N (Fashion Understanding Nature) approach.

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The following shoot was about bridging the gap between fashion, environment, and our lifestyle choices. Shot in Central Park, New York, Beau Monde Society’s features three eco-friendly confirmed designers (Amy DeCew, Jwhite and Tamara Leacock), whose collections I will talk you through entitled ‘Midnight Jungle’.

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www.beaumondesociety.wordpress.com

Amy DeCew presents The Nomadic Chic

Amy DeCew is a graduate of Parsons the New School for Design and worked at apparel companies in New York City prior to attending the FIT sustainable entrepreneurship program. Motivated by ethical and environmentally-conscious business practices and the growing awareness of sustainability issues, Amy started making her own items through a dynamic group of game-changing people creating new sourcing and manufacturing opportunities.

As an Ethical Fashion Forum Fellowship 500 member, Amy uses her background in both anthropology and clothing design to combine traditional methods with new techniques, creating a fusion of cultural arts and conscious fashion that widens the scope of economic possibility for marginalized communities.

The Look:

Inspired by nature, the nomadic tribe in Africa, and the classic cut, The Nomadic Chic describes a young woman looking for alternative ways to remain trendy but at the same time keeping the environment in mind. This look was completed by a few statement jewellery pieces to bring the earthy tones to the forefront.

• Top up-cycled Tunic & poncho jacket by Amy Decew Designs

• Necklace and Belt by Bunm-I Jewellery

• Bracelet- Stylist’s own

• Below- Models are wearing tunics up-cycled from previously worn garments

• Bracelets by Design by U Jewellery

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www.amydecewdesigns.com

Jwhite presents Fabric Harvest

Designer Jwhite pushes boundaries in design by returning and growing within the most authentic methods of screen printing. Her original textile prints are all hand designed and hand screen printed with natural, water-based Eco inks. Experimenting with many forms of fashion as a canvas, these bold designs bring tanks and tunics to life. Most popular this season was her pairing of prints with two tone, dual textured infinity scarves.

Detroit raised and Brooklyn based, Jwhite finds inspiration for her colourful prints in world and life. These concepts take you on a journey though ancient times, cultures near and far, textures within nature and social/Eco consciousness. For the individual who wants to make a statement, show true colours, to inspire and be inspired.

The Look:

The inspiration behind Fabric Harvest is celebrating the beauty of nature through vibrant colours. By placing the scraps of fabric on withered branches, we are reminded the source of these materials. The joy that time of harvest brings and the importance to reconnect with nature.

• Tanks, Scarves, Blue turban and Dress designed by JWhite

• Mustard scarf- Stylist’s own

• Necklace Belt by Bunm-I Jewellery

• Bracelets- Design by U Jewellery

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www.facebook.com/jwhite

Tamara Leacock presents Fashion Hacktivist

Tamara Leacock is an artist, activist, ethical fashion writer, who uses fashion design and performance as her media of social expression and outreach. Through her most recent fashion project, ReciclaGEM (or “recycling” in Portuguese), she creates one of a kind works of wearable art clothing and jewellery from recycled clothing donations, renewable fibres, and fair trade grains, inspired by salient political, public health and social themes of regional and global importance.

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The project is named “ReciclaGEM” as an ode to the cultural and environmental art movement of Brazil but also to reflect upon the power re-envision American fashion as a bi-continental, hemispheric, and environmentally conscious movement.

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Tamara has received a dual B.A. in Latin American Studies and International Studies from Yale University, where she created her first socially inspired fashion productions. Currently, she is pursuing an M.A. in Individualized Study with a concentration in “Community Development through the Stewardship of Ethical Fashion Performance and Design” at NYU while training further in sustainable design and haute couture at the Fashion Institute of Technology.

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www.reciclagemny.com

Creatures from the Continent- #uganda #wildlife #travel

Posted on March 4, 2013

Here are some more pictures from my travels in Uganda earlier on this year. These are taken from the Entebbe Zoo, originally created as a reception center for animals found with casualties, but now runs as a traditional zoo which has grown to be one of the most respected conservation educational institutions in Africa.

Click on an image to scroll through the gallery.

‘The Pearl of Africa’s Crown’- On the road- #photography – #Uganda

Posted on February 11, 2013

All photo’s were taken by myself between Kampala , Jinja, Entebbe and Mbarara, January/February 2013.

Enjoy!

-@Entebbe zoo-

Monkeying around

- Kitenge/Chitenge fabric-

Aan African garment similar to sarong, often worn by women wrapped around the chest or waist, over the head as a headscarf, or as a baby sling.

-The Road to Jinja-

FYI- Jinja is the second largest town in Uganda, after Kampala.

-Ruti Boys-

Try your luck

-African Woman-

I thought she made a lovely silhouette, also loving the patterned fabric she’s in.

-Nubian Heritage Basket-

The Nubian Basket is made by Nubian women. Most of the Nubian community live in the slums of Kibera, and migrated to Kenya from southern Sudan during the first world war.

- Fishermen @ the River Nile-

The River Nile is generally regarded as the longest river in the world.

-Fisherman @ Bujugali Falls-

The Bujugali falls is a waterfall near Jinja in Uganda where the Nile River comes out of Lake Victoria

- Sunset on the way to Mbarara-

-Me-

Never really sure what I am looking for, but I will know it when I see it

-A welcome dance-

We were greeted with a dance and songs from the Nyankole of Ankole district

-Entebbe Beach-

-Chimpanzee-

Musings of an Afropean…Whilst I’ve been away…

Posted on February 6, 2013

I am finally back from my East African adventure, and with so much to talk about it will take a couple of days to organise my photos and thoughts from my time spent in Uganda.

I often talk a lot about the concept of ‘Afropeanism’, a term a used to describe myself as it refers to the trans-cultural influences of members of the black diaspora living in Europe. Having been born in Uganda, and brought up in the UK, in my mind I’m an African living in Britain; yet it’s only when I go to Africa do I feel like an British person in Africa. However, despite often feeling inconclusive about my cultural identity, I also feel fortunate that I can be open to understanding and engaging in the cultural symphony of these two places.

I couldn’t possibly contain all the activities that I have been up to into a single blog post, so I will be segmenting my stories into a range of posts over the next few weeks, I hope you enjoy!

Whilst I’ve been away…

Firstly I would like to apologise to all those who have had trouble accessing my blog over the last couple of weeks. I have resolved the technical issue, however, whilst mountain trekking up country in the village of Mbarara, resetting my domain DNS seemed to be the least of my worries! Everything is now back in working order!

A big thank you to Sophie from Cosmopolitan Magazine for sending me a copy of this month’s issue a long with some awesome beauty treats. It made coming back to work feel all the more worthwhile!

Congratulations to the winners for the Comfort & Samuel competition, I will be announcing the names on Twitter tomorrow. A massive thanks to everyone who took part, and Comfort & Samuel for sponsoring the giveaway.

Glad so many of you enjoyed Barbie’s Nigerian wedding images from Nigerian photographer Obi, I knew you would love them as much as I did.

…and of course, last but far from least. The biggest thanks to everyone who was responsible for my nomination for Women4Africa’s upcoming award ‘Blogger of the Year’. The award ceremony is in May and I’m chuffed to be in the lineup!

Congratulations to @afroblush Louisa K on making the final selections of #Women4Arica2013 See full list here women4africa.com/final-nominees/

— Women4Africa (@Women4Africa) February 4, 2013

2013 looks like it’s going to be incredible. Cheers for all your ‘welcome home’ tweets, it feels great to be back!

Nigerian photographer, Obi – Barbie’s Naija Wedding

Posted on January 4, 2013

Happy New Year everyone! To make 2013 (or any other)your year, keep it simple: Count your blessings first; Whatever you did last year, Do it better; Be in the moment; Create/make your own opportunities; Believe in your abilities at all times; Finish what you start”

Moving on, Jepchumba, Founder and Creative Director of the African Digital Art Network posted this today, having come across it during TedxEuston last year. This project by Nigerian photographer, Obi who was inspired by French photographer Beatrices’ Barbie and Kens’ wedding shoot, and with some inspiration from the black Barbie shoot on Italian Vogue, decided to do shoot capturing Barbies traditional Nigerian wedding.

“So I got bored sometime last December, and then came across , I decided to create a Nigerian Traditional wedding shoot with black Barbie and Ken … it started up as a pretty simple shoot that would have taken about a week or so, and ended up taking up to 5 months. I had to enlist my wife to help out with the outfits, as well as with searching the internet for all the little accessories. Anyway, I’m glad its now done, and glad I can get rid of the dolls … I was beginning to get weird looks from my son whenever I came home with a barbie and he’s asking if was for me, or for his baby sister …

Anyway hope you like the shoot …” Obi

Fresh, optimistic and alfresco-esque. The Choolips SS13 Collection: ‘Diamond Petals 1.1′ @choolips

Posted on November 21, 2012

Watercolour petals, bright diamonds and delicate animal prints are slathered with a fresh palette of white, mint, pink, bright yellow and highlights of charcoal onto playfully chic silhouettes with a casual sporty edge.

Three words I would use to describe this collection: FRESH, OPTIMISTIC and ALFRESCO-esque

This is a beautiful and revitalizing collection by London based womenswear brand Choolips. I first got to know about Choolips at the launch of the Africa Fashion Guide back in September 2011, where Chooplips designer and entrepreneur Annegret Affolderbach, was one of the industry professionals on the event panel. From that time, I have been a big fan of their clean, urban and soulful style in addition to their commitment to great craftsmanship and sustainability.

The Choolips Spring Summer collection for 2013, entitled ‘Diamond Petals’ is inspired by the rich traditions of the Surma tribe from Omo Valley, Ethiopia. Known for their exquisitely beautiful vegetal headdresses made from exotic flowers and the use of their bold geometric body paintings their timeless creations have us slightly obsessed beyond the season.

The Choolips has been described as a ‘green fashion success story’, encouraging entrepreneurial practice by working with a community of grassroots trailblazers that follow more than Fairtrade principles.

The Diamond Petals SS13 collection is available to Pre-Order here

You can take a look at the Choolips Blog to see how they do things.

SCARVES

Our scarves are part of our ‘Golden Coast’ collection. Each scarf is hand printed applying local batik traditions and stitched by the Gold Coast in Ghana, West Africa.

*

DRESSES

“MARTA”

Marta is a casual shirt dress with a hint of kimono and waistline detail beautifully gathered by an enclosed belt. The layered diamond and petal cut work & applique is delicately framed by hand stitched edges. Marta features a fully lined top, a hidden button closure, hand finished hems and internal French seam finishing.

“PERCY”

Percy is a classic bomber jacket with a gathered waistline . Slathered with watercolour petal print, this print is a real statement piece easily combined with other wardrobe staples. Percy features full lined shoulders, exposed metal zip with internal binding and internal French seam finishing.

“MELANIE”

Melanie is a classic shirt dress with flaired sleeves giving it a gorgeous romantic twist. The detailed petal applique on collar and hem is delicately framed by hand stitched edges. This labour of love is a timeless beauty and breath of fresh air with its mint/charcoal colour. Melanie features a hidden button closure, hand finished hems and internal French seam finishing.

‘Accessing the Mainstream’- An evening of discussion on Africa’s influence in fashion and design

Posted on November 8, 2012

What:

Accessing the Mainstream- An evening of discussion on Africa’s influence in fashion and design

When:

Friday 26th October

Where:

Soboye Boutique, London, WC2

Why:

As part of Black History Month, Urban Network Enterprise brings designers, suppliers, makers and influencers in African fashion to discuss the challenges and opportunities associated in getting African design recognised within the mainstream fashion industry.

The evening was led by highly acclaimed and influential figures in the African fashion industry

Samson Soboye- Designer, stylist and owner of the Soboye Boutique
Ola Shobowale- Fashion contributor, stylist, mentor and talent spotter
Hannah Pool- Journalist/author /curator of Africa Utopia/Features Editor ARISE magazine, Grazia contributor
Helen Jennings- ARISE magazine editor / author of African fashion bible New African Fashion

Africa has always provided one of the richest sources of exotic imagery for designers, with bold, abstract and geometric signage, hatch marks, circles and triangles of African textiles. Going as far back as the 19^th century, the likes of Picasso and Matisse were openly influenced by African design, as seen in their cubist and decorative pieces. Over 200 years on, African inspired fashion and design still remains a source of new age style and inspiration, expressive in the vitality of modern life within both urban and luxury settings.

The evening was led by Jeffrey Lennon, Director of the Urban Enterprise Network and started by focusing on the issues affecting the industry, in terms of growth coverage and future demand and/or interest in African fashion and design. Is the sudden popularity of African fashion just a trend, here today and gone tomorrow?

Samson Soboye:

“African fashion and design is not a fly by trend”

I did this event as a wakeup call to say that African design and designers have been here and are not going anywhere. African fashion and design is not a fly by trend. I have been on this street for over 10 years and have always represented African designers, and designers that use Africa as a point of reference for their designs. We are here to stay.

With the rising popularity of African design, how can we make sure that the industry doesn’t get over saturated?

Ola Shabowale:

“African fashion and its designers are far from being over exposed”

When I speak to the top stylists for high fashion brands and ask what African designers they know, most struggle to name more than one, if any. Therefore, I think African fashion and it’s designers are far from being over exposed or oversaturated”.

Moreover, the African fashion and design industry needs more pioneers, like Franca Sozzani (Editor-in-chief, Vogue Italia) who became a champion for change, by launching Vogue Italia-Black. She created a legacy for African designers and gave African (and African inspired) creatives who have always yearned for that exposure, and the opportunity to stand next to mainstream brands.

Hannah Pool:

“The Industry is so far from reaching saturation point”

I agree with Ola in saying that the industry is so far from reaching saturation point. In fact London is so different to the rest of the country in regards to access and exposure to African designers that designers have to be very smart in strategically placing themselves in the right publications or in the hands of the right people to get any kind of exposure.

Are designers preparing themselves well enough in order to gain access into the mainstream?

Ola Shobowale:

“For more designers from the diaspora to be noticed, they need to step up their game”

We must remember that for several African designers, the UK is not their primary market. The central reason designers showcase their designs in Europe is to strengthen their brand and grow their credibility and international presence; but their main buyers are not in Europe.

African designers want Western exposure, but they are also very focused on the retail aspects of their businesses. For more designers from the diaspora to be noticed, they need to step up their game in terms of the quality, availability and business acumen when dealing with Western markets.

I believe African designers are getting a lot of success now is because the industry is looking specifically at African design. However, if many of these designers were to stand alone in the sea of other mainstream competitors, they would find themselves challenged by the quality and quantity of expected of them.

Helen Jennings:

“Although it’s trendy to be an African designer right now, you must also be a good designer”

Although it’s trendy to be an African designer right now, you must also be a good designer, and keep consistent in producing high quality collections. I’m constantly approached by designers, and I pay attention to the ones that know how to play the game. They don’t need to have a fancy PR agency, but they have a look book, noted experience and a clear vision for their collection.

How to play the game- Working with mainstream media for mainstream access

Hannah Pool:

“People still consider black as “limiting” or as a “narrow field”

Having been a journalist at the Guardian for over 10 years, I used to run a black fashion and beauty column and there was always an apprehension about the availability of content, as the editors would often ask, “Aren’t you going to run out things to write?

This goes to show how people still consider black as “limiting” or as a “narrow field”.

Therefore designers need to be very strategic in using the media in a smart and savvy way. If you find a publication or outlet that sits well with your brand, make sure you are assertive and have a media budget (however small) and strategy in place.

It’s worth your while to send things out to shoots and to stylists. It’s not enough just to be a fabulous designer, and think “my stuff is beautiful, people will want it”, that counts for nothing if people don’t know you exist.

The evolution of contemporary African design, into a traditional African narrative

Samson Soboye:

“Times are changing”

It should also be noted that not too long ago, being a creative was not a respectable profession in Africa. However, times are changing.

Hannah Pool:

“As my confidence and desire [for African designed apparel] grows, I hope so will others.”

In Africa, to be working in any area of the arts is considered a luxury, and to do that, you have to have to have a certain level of economic stability and confidence. It’s the third generation that have the freedom to bypass the expectations of becoming doctors and lawyers. It’ takes that amount of time, and that’s what we are seeing now, we are seeing it across literature, fashion and the arts.

I am from East Africa, but I love prints, be it from East or West Africa. But I also know that when I walk into a meeting, full of white men in suits, and I’m dressed head to toe in African print, it does make a difference; and it takes balls. I probably wouldn’t have done that at the start of my career, but as my confidence and desire [in African designed apparel] grows, I imagine so will others. This is why the growth of African fashion and design cannot be talked about in isolation to Africa’s economic growth, and the evolution in cultural identity amongst those within the African diaspora.

Although, these issues are all complicated they are interwoven into the essence of this debate.

Celebrating afro-indie brands with @ComfortEtSamuel plus a #GIVEAWAY #Competition!

Posted on November 6, 2012

Throughout November, I will be running a series of blog posts on supporting what I call “afro-indie” brands (African or African inspired independent designer and retailers). Independent brands add vibrancy, diversity and often provide a route to market for smaller brands, makers and designers who might otherwise never get their products in front of shoppers; often leading on service, offering a more attentive, personal approach.

This week’s focus is on a lovely London based independent brand called Comfort & Samuel, who provide beautiful home interiors inspired by African textiles and embroidery. Comfort & Samuel celebrates Africa’s varied textile culture, interpreting these fabrics for use in the home in a fresh and contemporary way.

Take a look at their Autumn/Winter 12 lookbook here

What’s Comfort & Samuel’s fascination with African print?

The African continent is home to a wide selection of fabrics of distinctive design – from Yoruba Adire Eleko (handmade tie-and-dye) to East African Kanga prints and Guinea Brocade used across West Africa; the African continent has a strong textile culture. Over time, “foreign” fabrics have also been absorbed by cultures across the continent – the George of the Igbos has been adapted from Indian saris, Austrian and Swiss laces used in traditional attire for formal occasions, and Dutch wax prints having become synonymous with African style.

Want to get your grabs on a Comfort & Samuel cushion? [CLOSING DATE- NOVEMBER 30TH ]

Simply let me know which independent fashion brand/designer you love and why for a chance to win a beautiful cushion for the C&S AW12 collection. If you’re on Twitter, you can also tweet me the answer @afroblush, using the hashtag #CushionComp Good luck!!! :-D

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Posts tagged “africa”

Posted on May 14, 2013

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Posted on May 8, 2013

COLLECTION SS13

… and what is Koutoukou?

-

Click on an image to scroll through the gallery

From her workshop base in Abidjan, the Laurenceairline collection is now entirely manufactured by local workers that Laurence has trained up.

What’s your…

BIGGEST INSPIRATION?

DREAM CREATIVE PROJECT?

COTE D’IVOIRE’S BEST-KEPT SECRET?

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Posted on May 7, 2013

“Classic’ – a book which people praise and don’t read.”

― Mark Twain

So I’ve given my eReader a rest, and I’m back to juggling a handful of paperbacks, rather than a dozen of eBooks…

THE 50TH LAW: 50 CENT & ROBERT GREENE

EAT.SLEEP.SHOP- THE LONDON GUIDE, SASKA GRAVILLE

ON BLACK GIRLS STREET, CHIKA UNIGWE

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Posted on April 18, 2013

Can Africans afford African luxury brands in Africa?

(Ernst & Young (2012) Growing in Africa- Capturing the opportunity for global consumer products businesses)

Promoting aid not trade

African fashion for Africans- The new frontier

Sheria Ngowi, modelling his collection ‘Year Of The Gentleman’

In summary,

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Posted on March 28, 2013

“despite food being something that is common to all of us,

it touches everything important to who we are as people.”

-

--

WHAT I ATE

Appetizers:

Mini Mashed Yam Balls; Kpakpko Salsa, Scotch Bonnet Salsa and Shito sauce; Kelewele – Ginger and chilli plantain; Plantain Chips; Chin Chin Biscuits

Starters:

ZGK’s Moyin Terrine – (Terrine of Black Eye Beans w/shrimp, chicken & hard-boiled eggs and green peppers)

Mains:

Agushi – Palaver Sauce- (Stewed lamb with ground melon seeds and spinach)

Dessert:

Nkatse Cake- (Peanut Brittle with a scoop of vanilla ice-cream)

So if you haven’t had West African (or African) food before, Zoe’s Ghana Restaurant is a great place to start!

My first time with palm wine…

Enjoy the rest of the pictures from the night ;-)

(Ladies from the night)

- (The amazing singer Jessica Fitoussi)

-(DJ Good Doggy on the 1′s+2′s)

-(For the less glamourous pictures follow me on instagram ;-) @afroblush)

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Posted on March 18, 2013

Saturday and Sunday saw the Diesel Village LIVE Radio, presenting musical legends and up coming talents from Africa and the West including Africa Express, Bill Brewster, DJ Edu, Shepdog, Soweto Kinch and Todd Hart.

Aj holmes in the house! #dieselvillage radio live #studioafrica sounds

Make room for DJ edu! Soulful and uplifting vibe here at #dieselvillage #studioafrica radio LIVE

I am sure you’ll enjoy even more of the Diesel features I will be bringing to you over the next few weeks, and pictures from tonight’s event will be up tomorrow ;-)

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Posted on March 6, 2013

“The DIESEL+EDUN collaboration-

A global loudspeaker for the new African economic and creative paradigm”

I SEE A DIFFERENT YOU

YANNICK ILUNGA

UVIWE MANGWENI

ABDELLAH TAIA

FLAVIANA MATATA

BALOJI

LAURENCE CHAUVIN-BUTHAUD

SY ALASSANE

TANYA MUSHAYI

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Posted on March 5, 2013

“ Bridging the gap between fashion, environment, and our lifestyle choices”