All Photos By Gail
Designed by Marina Draghici for the lead actor of the Broadway musical Fela!, this custom-tailored garment evokes the unique style of Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti (1938 — 1997), who often wore vibrant, embroidered two-piece costumes. The suit features intricately stitched renderings and stylized motifs from some of Fela’s signature looks.
Continue reading Pink Thing of The Day: Fela! Shirt and Trousers Designed By Marina Draghici
Photos By Gail
Fashion has always been political, but sometimes it’s also pure celebration. Back in 2009, Nigerian-American designer Lola Faturoti found the perfect way to honor the historic election of President Barack Obama: she created a commemorative dress that was as vibrant and hopeful as the man himself.
Continue reading Eye On Design: Lola Faturoti’s Barack Obama Commemorative Dress
Photos By Gail
Yinka Shonibare’s surreal and visually unforgettable sculpture Headless Man Trying to Drink (2005) brings together biting social commentary, clever visual humor, and a rich exploration of post-colonial identity — all in one absurdly tragicomic gesture.
Crafted from fiberglass and wood, with clothing made from the artist’s signature Dutch wax-printed cotton, the life-sized headless figure leans forward, mouthlessly attempting to drink from a stylized water pump and fountain made of polymer-gypsum. Of course, without a head, this feat is impossible — which is exactly the point.
Continue reading Modern Art Monday Presents: Headless Man Trying to Drink By Yinka Shonibare
Photos By Gail
Designers Jean-Yves Kouassi Yebieyin and Gaston Ouedraogo capture the unique history and culture of West African country Ivory Coast, also known as Côte d’Ivoire, with their brand partnership Djainin. The brand name translates to “Jeans” in Nouchi, a language that developed to bridge language differences in Ivorian cities.
Continue reading Eye On Design: Marie-Thérèse Houphouët-Boigny Print Ensemble By Djainin
Photos By Gail
Designer Grace Wales Bonner states, “the aim with Wales Bonner is to bring Afro-Atlantic Spirit to the idea of European luxury and elevate Black representation within fashion.” This white wool Tuxedo (2017) is inspired by the Pan-Africanist leader Haile Selassie’s crowning as emperor of Ethiopia in 1930. Continue reading Eye On Design: Wool Men’s Tuxedo By Grace Wales Bonner