Modern African fashion’s “streetwear” evolution
Today’s West African fashions are evolving into a modern “streetwear” style that appeals to more young people, according to the organiser of a major cultural event. Speaking at the 10th…
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Where to wear African fabrics
African fabrics with wax prints (such as those offered by Vlisco and Mitex Holland) are undeniably beautiful and vivid. As a result, garments made from these fabrics are perfect for…
How to Make Garments from Guipure Lace
Guipure is a particularly interesting type of lace, as it’s made in such a way that the motifs are stable and therefore can be cut quite easily. Because of this…
How Central and West Africa Embraced Wax Prints
Although wax fabric is traditionally used for African fashions, many producers of wax prints are based in Europe. In fact, prior to the 1960s, almost every wax fabric sold across…
Fashion Cities Africa: Celebrating the Diversity of Africa’s Textiles
Fashion Cities Africa has been billed as the ‘first major UK exhibition dedicated to contemporary African fashion. Find out more about that in this Empire Textiles blog.
Stories and Meanings Woven into African Wax Prints
Every picture tells a story, so the saying goes, and this is true for fabric designs, especially those with such a long and colourful history as African wax prints….
The Best Ways to Wear Brocade
Brocade is a group of richly ornate shuttle-woven fabrics, often made in coloured silks and woven with gold and silver threads. The material is often used for evening and formal…
Choosing accessories to wear with your West African fabrics
Choosing the right accessories to wear with your West African fabrics is important and will make you stand out. For some tips, read here!
How to care for your wax prints
West African wax prints can add an extravagant splash of colour to your wardrobe and the best are generally made from 100% cotton. If you want to keep that luxury…
Wax prints steal the show at Paris Fashion Week
African wax prints are certainly head-turning garments wherever they are worn in the world, and judging by last week, Paris is no different. The cream of the fashion world gathered…