Africa Fashion Exhibit

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Imane ayissi couture

Welcome back friends to another fashion exhibit recap. During my most recent trip to Chicago, I had the pleasure of visiting The Field Museum. I planned my trip to the museum solely around the Africa Fashion Exhibit. Not only were the fashions stunning, but the exhibit provided so much history on the fashions of Africa. I learned so much.

The exhibit began with a display of the dates when 54 African countries gained their independence. In my opinion, this was the perfect way to start the exhibit. Gaining independence had such a profound effect on everything in these countries, fashion included. Fashion has always been a tool in rebellions, protests, politics, renaissance movements etc. This exhibit touched on those things as well as it being a declaration of creativity, freedom, self-expression, and talent!

 

I loved that this exhibit feature designers from throughout the continent of Africa. My enjoyment increased as I came home and researched them to learn more about their backgrounds. I never do that. I spent a lot of time citing all of the designers that I posted here so that you could do the same. It was a great exercise to learn about African fashion designers, especially since I am trying to incorporate my diversity in my closet. I now have a long list of designers to look out for and potentially buy from!

Sustainable Nigerian Brand: NKWO by Nkwo Onwuka

 

Whenever I spot a look that catches my eye, I always examine it further. When I saw the denim look below, I immediately said to myself “that looks like something Beyonce would wear”. Unbeknownst to me, Beyonce had actually worn a look by Loza in “Black is King”. I later took a photo of the look on the right also not realizing that Beyonce has worn multiple looks by Tongoro, including fits for RWT and Cowboy Carter. I love that their work has been recognized and featured by such an icon on the global stage!

From MAISON ARTC: Moroccan designer, Artsi Ifrach

 

Aside from the clothing itself, the thing that kept me glued to this exhibit was the multiple forms of art showcased. There was print, music, photography, and video. I spent over an hour in this exhibit soaking it all in. I left inspired to spruce up my personal wardrobe and to start posting my looks again. I hope you enjoyed what I was able to capture.

Let me know your favorite look down in the comments. Ciao!

brand & Designer links

Imane Ayissi Couture

Torlowei

NKWO

Loza Maléombho

Tongoro

Moshions

Mmuso Maxwell

Atafo

Hassan Hajjaj

MAXHOSA

MAISON ARTC

Bull Doff

Akese Styelines