Category: Blog posts

How Streetwear Took Ghana By Storm In The 90s

Posted on by Juliet Ajaab

The 1990s and 2000s in Ghana was an exciting time for fashion. It was a time when the fusion of traditional and modern styles created a streetwear culture that was vibrant, expressive, and truly Ghanaian. Today, as I think about those amazing years, I can’t help but dive back into the memories of iconic brands like MKOGH, PKOG, and Blazin Gear that defined the streetwear fashion landscape.

MKOGH

Mawuli Okudjato Ghana (MKOGH) was more than just a fashion brand; it was a movement. In the 90s, this label was synonymous with street style in Ghana. It was edgy, bold, and also African. From graphic tees with powerful Adinkra symbols to kente-inspired caps, MKOGH was all about celebrating Ghana’s rich cultural heritage but in a way that connected with young people.

What set MKOGH apart was its commitment to promoting authenticity. The brand made many different styles of clothing but still catered to fresh pieces for young people. The brand emphasised that Ghanaian youth didn’t have to purchase Western styles to be fashionable. They could be proudly African while being on-trend. MKOGH’s pieces were statement-makers, speaking volumes about cultural pride and individuality. 

I remember my pink MKOG scrunched top I bought at their store while it was on sale and wore it till it could be worn no more. Brands like MKOG really inspired me into starting my own brand. They showed me that the ready-to-wear model was something the country needed.

PKOG

PKOG brought a different flavour to the streetwear scene. This brand was all about casual, everyday wear with a Ghanaian twist. Think comfy, stylish T-shirts Ghana flag colours in designs and patterns, or polo shirts with fun graphics and popular phrases that young people could relate to. PKOG’s ethos was rooted in the idea that fashion could be relatable and wearable by anyone.

PKOG also took streetwear to B2B. At the height of the brand’s popularity they were producing sportswear for schools and other institutions. A lot of schools in Ghana trusted them because the brand was already on the lips of the students and so it was definitely a value add. I remember receiving a PKOG T-shirt from my faculty in university when I was in my first year. Unlike the boxy t-shirts the school was used to giving this was a stylish feminine cut tee that was very flattering to wear. Indirectly PKOG showed me that scaling was possible in the Ghanaian fashion industry and learnt a lot from how they approached the business.

Blazin Gear

Blazin Gear was the true definition of the urban streetwear movement. It celebrated the hip-hop and street culture that was taking the world by storm in the 90s. This brand offered a mix of graphic hoodies, t-shirts and accessories that resonated with the emerging hip-hop generation in Ghana.

Blazin Gear’s influence extended beyond clothing; it was a cultural phenomenon. It played a crucial role when Ghana was climbing its peak in international football. Blazin Gear took advantage of the euphoria that Ghanaians had when the country hosted the African Cup of Nations as well as when Ghana played in the World Cup for the first time. The brand’s famous red, gold, green and black colours sat perfectly when anyone wanted an outfit that said, “I am a proud Ghanaian”. In true streetwear style, Blazin Gear didn’t just make clothing. They had some pretty interesting accessories as well and I remember owning one of their keychains. 

The Legacy of 90s and 2000s Ghanaian Streetwear

Looking back at these fun brands from the ’90s and 2000s, it’s clear that they were more than just clothing labels. They were symbols of a generation that was finding its voice, celebrating its roots, and embracing global influences. These brands challenged norms and reshaped fashion in Ghana, proving that local brands were not only reserved for the older generation. I remember very clearly that after the streetwear boom in Ghana many people around me begun to understand my vision of setting up a ready-to-wear brand that was pocket friendly.

Today, most of these streetwear brands have either stopped operations or have moved on to other aspects of fashion. Ghana, like most countries, was hit by heavy competition from cheap Chinese products that saw the streetwear movement die out. There are some new brands that emerged over the years like Free The Youth, Tribe Of God and 2 Cedi.

Ghana Celebrity Fashion At The 2023 VGMA Event

Posted on by Juliet Ajaab

Fashion has always been an integral part of the entertainment industry, with celebrities setting trends and influencing fashion choices for their fans. From red carpet events to everyday street style, celebrities have the power to shape fashion trends and influence the industry. The Vodafone Ghana Music Awards popularly known as the VGMA is one of the country’s biggest displays of fashion.

When it comes to red carpet events, celebrities often choose designer outfits that make a statement. They choose outfits that are unique, eye-catching, and reflect their personal style. Some celebrities opt for traditional and cultural outfits, while others go for more modern and contemporary designs.

The VGMA event is a major music awards event held annually in Ghana. It also sees celebrities from the music industry showcasing their fashion sense. Ghanaian fashion is known for its vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and traditional elements. Celebrities often incorporate these elements into their outfits, making for a truly unique and diverse fashion scene.

When it comes to celebrity fashion trends, it’s important to note that they are constantly changing. What was popular yesterday may not be popular today, and what is popular today may not be popular tomorrow. This year’s VGMA fashion was a mixture of breathtaking, bizarre and impressive. Over the years we are seeing more celebrities wear clothes from local designers and this really makes us happy. With the rise of social media and influencer culture, celebrities now have a greater impact on fashion trends than ever before. So the push for Ghanaian designers is a push in the right direction. 

Classy look

Some Ghanaian celebrities love to look effortlessly classy and we saw a number of these looks on the red carpet. Our favourite of them all was Black Sheriff’s outfit for the night. It worked perfectly well for his frame and also his personality. The classy look is not as easy as it seems. This look often tries not to go over the top but must also look good enough for such an occasion. Some of the easiest ways to achieve this look is by first choosing muted and few colours. Black is top on that list. Maybe that’s why Black Sheriff wins this one, because it’s in his name. EL looked stunning as well. Interestingly enough he also wore a classic suit.

Avant-garde look

Avant-garde looks for events like the VGMAs are very welcome but they have to be fashionable. It needs to be both bizarre and tasteful, in a weird kind of way. This year’s Music Awards saw a fair number of Avant-garde looks. Our favourite for the night was Abiana and surprisingly Chiief One did a good job with his denim outfit. The honest truth is that avant-garde is not for everyone.

Ghana vibes look

Sometimes It’s hard to tell where the celebrities get their clothes from. For many years artists have been wearing foreign brands but some also make it a point to patronize Ghanaian fashion brands and also make it as obvious as possible. The 2023 VGMAs saw a decent number of local brands being mentioned on the red carpet and even fabric like kente was beautifully represented. Felicia Osei’s stunning kente gown stood out but our favourite was Anita Akuffo’s dress. It was truly flawless.

Fashion trends are an ever-evolving aspect of the entertainment industry. The clothes that celebrities wear at events such as the VGMA can often make headlines and spark conversations. Whether they choose traditional or contemporary designs, celebrities have the power to influence fashion trends and shape the industry. Who was your best dressed celebrity on the VGMA red carpet?

The History of Kente Cloth

Posted on by Juliet Ajaab

Kente cloth is a traditional hand-woven fabric from Ghana that is renowned for its intricate designs and vibrant colors. It is widely regarded as one of Africa’s most iconic fabrics and has become a symbol of African heritage and pride. The history of kente cloth in Ghana is long and fascinating, and it is a testament to the resilience and creativity of the Ghanaian people. Kente comes from the word kenten, which means “basket” in the Asante dialect of the Akan language, referencing its basket-like pattern. 

The origins of kente cloth can be traced back to the Ashanti Kingdom with the most popular town that produces the cloth being Bonwire. The Ashanti people, who are known for their exceptional craftsmanship and artistic skills, developed kente as a way of expressing their cultural identity and social status.

According to legend, the first kente weaver was a man named Karaban, who learned the art of weaving from a spider that he had observed spinning its web with his friend Amoaya. They used this knowledge to create a new type of fabric that was both beautiful and durable, and that became highly prized among the Ashanti people. They were both from Bonwire.

Over time, kente cloth evolved into a highly specialized art form, with weavers using a variety of techniques to create intricate patterns and designs. These designs often had symbolic meanings and were used to convey messages about social status, political power, and cultural identity. These days the kente patterns are even used for cotton wax print fabric popularly known as Ankara.

During the 19th century, kente cloth became more widely known and admired beyond the Ashanti Kingdom. Traders and merchants from other parts of West Africa began to carry it to other regions, and it eventually became popular throughout the continent.

In the 20th century, kente cloth gained international recognition, as more and more people outside of Africa began to appreciate its beauty and significance. It was worn by African leaders such as Ghana’s first president, Kwame Nkrumah, who saw it as a way of asserting African cultural identity and challenging European imperialism.

Today, kente cloth remains an important part of Ghanaian culture and is used for a variety of purposes, from clothing and accessories to ceremonial and decorative objects. It is also exported to other countries around the world, where it is prized for its unique beauty and cultural significance. In the Volta Region of Ghana, they also have kente cloth. The patterns and colour combinations are different and people mostly call them Ewe Kente cloths. The looms that are used to weave this kente are practically identical. Some people even argue that kente originated from this place because the name kente means weave in some Ewe dialects.

In conclusion, the history of kente cloth in Ghana is a rich and fascinating story that reflects the creativity, skill, and cultural heritage of the Ghanaian people. From its origins as a symbol of social status among the Ashanti people to its national and international recognition as an iconic African textile, kente cloth is a testament to the enduring power of African art and culture.

The power of the African fashion industry on the continent

Posted on by Juliet Ajaab

The African fashion industry has been on the rise in recent years, and it is becoming increasingly recognized on the global stage. African fashion is known for its vibrant colors, bold prints, and unique designs that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the continent. The industry is not only contributing to the cultural heritage of Africa but also has numerous benefits for Africans, including economic empowerment, job creation, and a sense of pride in their heritage.

Economic Benefits

One of the most significant benefits of the African fashion industry is its potential for economic empowerment. The fashion industry is a significant contributor to the African economy, with the potential to create jobs and generate income. The industry has also attracted significant investment from local and international companies, leading to the creation of new businesses and opportunities for African entrepreneurs. The industry has the potential to provide employment opportunities for millions of people in Africa, particularly in rural areas where job opportunities are scarce. Fashion brands in Africa that export their products also make a lot of income in foreign currency that supports their countries.

Promoting African Culture

Another benefit of the African fashion industry is that it promotes African culture and heritage. African fashion is deeply rooted in the continent’s cultural history and reflects the diversity and richness of its people. Through fashion, Africans can showcase their traditions and customs to the world and create a sense of pride in their heritage. African fashion is not only a form of expression but also a celebration of the continent’s past and present.

Promoting sustainability

The African fashion industry has also been instrumental in promoting social and environmental sustainability. Many African fashion brands are focused on using sustainable materials and production methods that minimize their impact on the environment. They also prioritize fair labor practices and support local communities through various initiatives. By prioritizing sustainability, African fashion brands are setting an example for the global fashion industry, which has long been criticized for its negative environmental and social impact.

In conclusion, the African fashion industry has numerous benefits for Africans, including economic empowerment, cultural promotion, and environmental sustainability. The industry has the potential to create employment opportunities, attract investment, and showcase the richness and diversity of African culture to the world. African fashion has come a long way, and it is exciting to see its continued growth and impact on the continent and beyond.

The deep meaning behind funeral cloths in Ghana

Posted on by Juliet Ajaab

All over the world when someone dies there are customs and procedures that follow. Most times the family of the deceased person meet and decide on how to have the funeral, which is a ceremony to honour the life of a person when they pass away. Funerals most often have a dress code, of black. In parts of Africa, particularly Ghana. Funeral clothing doesn’t just end at the colour. There are certain prints and fabrics specifically designed for funerals. In the Akan language, Twi it’s called Eyie ntomaa which directly translates into funeral cloth. Funeral cloths in Ghana play a very important role. 

Funeral cloths in Ghana are mostly made of cotton but there are also polyester, silk and velvet options. For many tribes particularly in the middle and southern part of Ghana, the family of the deceased selects a particular pattern of cloth for the funeral. This is to show solidarity and also help other people who attend the funeral to easily identify close family and friends of the deceased. 

The selection of the cloth is not only made based on the beauty of the fabric but also the message it carries. Many funeral cloths in Ghana have names and meanings that can sometimes be seen at the hem of the fabric. Some popular funeral cloth names are Owuo sei fie (Death destroys homes), Wiase ben enie (what sort of life is this), Yen Adeɛ Kɛseɛ Bi Afriyensa (we have lost something big) among others. 

The most popular colours for funeral cloths are black, black and red as well as black and white. Most tribes have the funeral rites and rituals done wearing darker colours (black or black and red) and on Sunday wear a brighter colour (black and white) to celebrate the life of the deceased and give thanks for a successful funeral. 

The styles these funeral cloths are sewed in are completely left to the discretion of the individual. For women, the most popular style for funerals is a kaba and slit or a dress. Men, often wear a shirt with plain trousers or wrap the fabric with shorts underneath.

Differences between kente and batakari fugu fabric

Posted on by Juliet Ajaab

 A lot of times when people see our handwoven smock fabric they call it kente. This needs to stop NOW! These are two very different fabrics and in this article, I will tell you why. First of all, let me acknowledge the people who work hard to make these beautiful pieces of art we call fabric. I’ve seen both smock fabric and kente being made and it’s such an amazing thing to behold. 

When I was in university I had the privilege to do my final year project work at the place kente began and its biggest production location yet, Bonwire in the Ashante Region. Kente is a handwoven fabric which is often made up of many vibrant colours and made with a loom. The weavers make beautiful patterns and shapes. The weaving is often done in strips and then sewed together to get cloths of different sizes. Kente fabric is mostly worn wrapped around the body or sewn into beautiful garments. In modern times kente is even used to make accessories like bags and shoes as well as decorations. These days the patterns and colours have evolved to the extent that some cloths even have metallic and shimmery looks to them. 

https://www.shopafrothreads.com/shop/p/authentic-handwoven-kente-cloth-ghana

Kente is mostly worn to ceremonial events. These cloths are more expensive than most fabrics on the market because they are handmade and very unique. Kente prints and patterns have been replicated on cotton, silk, satin and other fabrics. Many people frown on this because they believe the essence of kente is being taken away. A lot of these kente replicas are made by Chinese companies which makes the case even worse. Kente fabric has appeared on several international runways by big high fashion brands.

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-56484264

Smock or batakari fabric is a handwoven fabric mostly from Northern Ghana. This fabric is made carefully in big looms which are often controlled by women. The main design is long stripes in various colours but often not many colours per cloth. The stripes often vary in size making the design a bit more conservative but unique as well. Smock fabric is also woven in strips and then handsewn together. 

The name batakari means a smock which is what most of these fabrics are used for. Smocks from northern Ghana come in many forms. They are often hand or machine sewn and lined nicely. Ex-President of Ghana, Jerry John Rawlings and John Mahama were two of the people who made smocks very popular among men in Ghana. Samira Bawumia, Ghana’s second lady also brought out the beauty of smock fabric with her high-end tailored dresses.

This smock fabric has been used to make so many things besides smocks and clothes. These days you can find bags, shoes and other fashion accessories made with batakari fabric. As compared to kente, fugu fabric is more affordable. The key difference between the two also lies in the style of weaving and the patterns. Kente patterns tend to be quite busy while fugu fabric is made up of stripes in different thicknesses and colours. 

At the end of the day, both fabrics look beautiful and one can choose either one based on preference. Sometimes you can even combine them. How cool is that? Can we all stop saying Northern kente now?