African Fashion in the Global World
Craftaly.co
African fashion captures the different experiences of Africans, both on the continent and in the diaspora, and tells the stories of Africa. Before the recent “African fashion boom,” however, African fashion wasn’t always regarded as fashionable or expensive.
The way African communities dress demonstrates that fabrics have a deeper meaning than their outward look and have spiritual significance within their threads.
There is room for more education and awareness of African art. The effort of craft training on Craftaly.co is to help economically and empower small communities by giving artisan craftsmanship in the global trade platform and the value that it deserves.
In African fashion, a high value is placed on the human figure and human traits. This can be seen in the style of pattern created on the materials they wear. This is intended to communicate particular thoughts through visual abstraction.
Animism, however, is another idea that denotes a notion that a thing is inhabited by spirits or souls. Some of these ties may be seen in the Benin art and fashion, where bronze heads were used to move the throne from one deceased king to another and served as a symbol of sovereignty.
They were also created as a tribute to the deceased. The materials employed for the sculpture — wood, clay, or later, bronze — were frequently influenced by the socio-political standing of the figure.
Craftaly.co aims to inspire more local designers to collaborate with local suppliers and use local resources. Achieving this objective will strengthen local economies, create long-term employment possibilities for African people, and ensure the survival of artisanal crafts and methods.
In the most under-served communities, a fairly regulated supply chain can deliver amazing benefits.
Fashion firms are encouraged to take their lead and give empowerment a higher priority by encouraging diversity, inclusivity, and sustainability. In just the past few years Lagos, Nigeria has become Africa’s fashion capital.
African fashion has become more widely recognized over time, and the global fashion industry has benefited from its impact. Today’s popular fashion styles have their roots in African culture.
The rich and colorful African scenery may be seen in the beautiful design.
Here are a few reasons why African fashion is so important to the world:
Cultural expression
African attire provides a window into the various civilizations that make up the continent. Each pattern is distinctive and highlights Africa’s rich cultural heritage. Africans can celebrate their identity and exhibit their talents on this platform.
Empowerment
For many people, wearing African fashion now enables them to feel more powerful. For talented designers and crafters, particularly women who had previously been disadvantaged, it has opened up employment prospects. This has helped the economy expand and the level of poverty across the continent decline.
Sustainability
Sustainable methods are used in the production of African fashion. To produce their designs, several designers turn to age-old techniques like hand weaving and dying. This encourages environmentally friendly production techniques and helps local communities.
Diversity
The patterns, fabrics, and techniques used in African apparel are immensely diverse. Everyone can find something they like, which has caused African fashion to become more widely recognized. African-inspired patterns are being incorporated into many non-African designers’ collections since it has become a global trend.
Influence
Fashion trends all across the world have been impacted by African fashion. Many Western designers have integrated African designs into their collections after being influenced by them. A new and vibrant fashion scene has been produced as a result of the mix of African and Western fashion.
