Diana Vreeland said, “Fashion is part of the daily air and it changes all the time, with all the events. You can even see the approaching of a revolution in clothes. You can see and feel everything in clothes.” This quote captures the essence of fashion being a dynamic and ever-evolving aspect of our lives that is deeply intertwined with the events and societal shifts that shape our world.
Fashion is not merely about clothing. It is a powerful reflection of the times, attitudes, traditions, and aspirations of a given era. The evolution of fashion is a fascinating journey that spans centuries, marked by various revolutions, and cultural movements. Each period has left an indelible mark on the way people dress, showcasing the interconnectedness of fashion with broader social, political, and economic changes.
In Africa, fashion is a vibrant and dynamic expression of the continent’s rich cultural diversity and deep-rooted traditions. The clothing styles, patterns, and accessories worn by people reflect their identities and serve as a powerful means of communicating heritage, social status, and a strong sense of community.
Izzi Ekhahiemen is one of the notable African fashion designers who are on the quest to preserve and tell the rich African culture through his bold fashion statements. He has a reputation for taking bold steps in the fashion industry, going out of the ordinary to explore diverse styles that linger in the minds of critics.
In his jaw-dropping collection, Ancestral Echos, Izzi went back to his roots to draw inspiration. Through the infusion of bold African fabric, he tells his brand story, showing an admirable amount of creativity that left many of his guests awestruck and at the edge of their seats.
Izzi uses traditional fabrics that carry their unique symbolic significance. This is a colourful and patterned Isiagu fabric that is widely worn in Eastern region, Nigeria in West Africa, and is often associated with class and poise. This is a fabric best suited for celebrations, ceremonies, and special occasions. Isiagu cloth from Nigeria is an iconic textile, with intricate geometric patterns that convey cultural stories and values. This style is best worn with black slack trousers, adorned with ola onu (beaded necklace) and erulu (coral bead).
For this piece, the diversity of Africa’s fashion industry is evident in Izzi’s use of simple traditional garments. Popularly known as a senator, this assemble can vary in style, cut, and colour across different regions of the continent. This design showcases the skill of artisans and also highlights the fusion of tradition and modernity in African fashion.
In addition to the incredible fashion style, accessories are completely optional to this style which tells on its ability to stand out on its own. This piece often holds symbolic meanings, representing everything from elegance status to social standing.
This piece is Izzi’s brainchild that showcases his commitment and dedication to preserving cultural heritage. Many designers draw inspiration from traditional folklore, myths, and historical events, infusing their creations with narratives that celebrate the richness of African cultures, and Izzi is no different. This showstopper piece is a fashion style that has transcended time and undoubtedly has come to stay. This two-piece troupe consist of a long shirt; almost knee length, and long trousers. Through this design, Izzi reflects the depth of African traditions and values.
This is another style that is worthy of mention. Izzi’s creativity is bringing this piece alive. The long-sleeve two-piece wear exudes a boss move; a simple yet smart wear that makes you stand out in the crowd. If you are looking for style and sophistication that can boost your confidence wherever you go, then this piece is the perfect choice.
We cannot overlook the choice of footwear and sunglasses that all blend perfectly with the piece. Izzi opted for a simple flat that brings comfort matched with a sunglass that leaves heads turning your way.
In recent years, there has been a global appreciation for African fashion, with designers from the continent gaining recognition on the international stage. This increased visibility has contributed to a redefinition of global fashion standards, encouraging a more inclusive representation of diverse cultures in the fashion industry.
We feel delighted to see Izzi Ekhahiemen taking the lead in this fashion revolution and we cannot wait to see what he has up his sleeve in his future collections.
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