The MAG weekly Fashion and Lifestyle Blog for the modern African girl by Lydia, every Friday at 1700 hrs. Nr 162 25th July 2025
Lydia's Weekly Lifestyle blog is for today's African girl, so no subject is taboo. My purpose is to share things that may interest today's African girl.
This week's contributors: Lydia, Pépé Pépinière, Titi. This week's subjects: Stylish & Warm: How to Rock a Long Coat in West Africa's Cold Season, Salt, Asking for his phone number, Olive oil, the magic? and Sub Box
Stylish & Warm: How to Rock a Long Coat in West Africa's Cold Season. Hello fashion lovers! As the chillier months settle in across West Africa, it's time to elevate your wardrobe with a versatile staple — the long coat. Whether you're navigating bustling city streets or attending special events, a long coat can be both a practical and stylish addition to your seasonal wardrobe. Here's how to wear a long coat with flair during this cold season, blending comfort, culture, and modern style.
Choose the Right Fabric & Colour. In West Africa, the climate varies, but during the cold season, opt for warm fabrics like wool, cashmere, or thick blends. Neutral shades, such as beige, black, navy, or camel, are timeless and easy to pair. However, don’t shy away from vibrant colors like deep red, emerald green, royal blue, or orange, to make a bold statement.
Layer with Cultural Elegance. Layering is key to staying warm and stylish. Pair your long coat with:
Traditional Attire: Combine with Ankara or Kente fabrics underneath for a cultural twist. For example, wear a fitted Ankara dress or a Kente skirt and blouse beneath your coat. When you open it, your vibrant traditional fabric will stand out, making a bold statement.
Contemporary Looks: A simple turtleneck or fitted sweater in neutral shades works well underneath. Add slim-fit jeans or tailored trousers for a sleek silhouette.
Anticipate on next blog for continuation.
Mix Traditional & Modern. Combine traditional fabrics with contemporary cuts. For example, a wrap skirt made from Ankara fabric paired with a sleek crop top creates a perfect blend of heritage and modernity. This fusion not only celebrates your roots but also keeps your look fresh and trendy.
Layer Up with Accessories. Accessorize with statement jewelry—think chunky bead necklaces, gold hoops, or colorful bangles. Headwraps or gele styles can add an extra flair for special outings, or keep it simple with a stylish hat for daytime adventures.
Comfort Meets Style. For casual days, go for linen or cotton maxi dresses in vibrant prints or solid colours. Pair with comfortable sandals or sneakers, and add a crossbody bag to keep it practical yet fashionable.
Night Out Glam. For evening occasions, opt for a fitted midi dress with intricate embroidery or metallic accents. Pair with heels and bold makeup—think fiery reds or shimmering golds—to make a statement.
Weekly Style Tip: Layer with confidence! Whether it's a denim jacket over a traditional dress or a vibrant scarf, layering adds dimension and personality to your outfit.
Inspiration for the Week
A bright Ankara jumpsuit for brunch with friends.
A flowy maxi skirt paired with a crop top for a relaxed weekend.
An elegant boubou for family gatherings or church services.
Casual jeans and a printed blouse for errands or casual meetups.
Remember, fashion is a powerful way to express your identity and culture. Be bold, be authentic, and wear what makes you feel confident and proud of your roots!
Micro Twists & Mini Braid: The tiny twist and braid craze continues strong, with stylists creating intricate micro patterns that look almost like artwork. These styles are not only protective but also incredibly photogenic, perfect for social media content. They’re often styled into updos or left flowing for a sleek look.
Hybrid Styles: Fusions of Tradition and Modernity: Many stylists are experimenting with fusion styles—combining traditional patterns with contemporary cuts and colours. For example, blending Fulani-inspired braids with neon hues, or incorporating beadwork into sleek, modern buns. These hybrid styles celebrate African heritage while embracing the future of fashion.
2025 is a vibrant year for African hairstyles—a true testament to the continent’s rich cultural tapestry and innovative spirit. Whether you’re rocking bold colours, intricate braids, or natural textures, there's a trend to match every personality. Embrace your unique style, celebrate your roots, and let your hair be your canvas for self-expression! Stay fabulous and keep following for more updates on the latest in African fashion and beauty trends!
Bold Braided Statements: Braids remain a timeless staple, but 2025 is all about reinventing them with a contemporary twist. Think oversized box braids with metallic accents, colourful beads, and intricate patterns. The “Goddess Braids”—large, sculptural braids that cascade down the shoulders—are especially popular, often paired with accessories like gold cuffs and charms to elevate the look.
Colour-Blocked Locs: Locs have been a mainstay for years, but this year, they’re getting a vibrant upgrade. Colour-blocked locs in shades of neon pink, electric blue, and fiery orange are making waves. The trend combines natural dreadlocks with bold, contrasting colours, giving a rebellious and artistic vibe perfect for street style and editorial shoots alike.
Curtain Bangs with Twist: A fusion of classic and contemporary, curtain bangs are being styled with textured afro and loc styles, adding softness and framing to bold hairstyles. It's a versatile look that works well with both natural textures and styled protective styles, making it suitable for everyday wear or special occasions.
Sculptural Afros: Afros are being sculpted into geometric and artistic shapes—think asymmetrical cuts, layered volumes, and even shaved designs within the afro. This trend celebrates natural hair while pushing creative boundaries, perfect for those who want to make a bold statement without compromising their natural texture.
Share your favorite moments from our blog, your favorite looks, or how fashion has impacted your life! Here’s to many more years of fashion, fun, and fabulousness! Cheers to style, creativity, and the journey ahead! 🎉💖
With love and style,
Henna and Beauty Trends: No Eid celebration is complete without the intricate designs of henna. In 2025, henna art has evolved, with artists offering stunning patterns that tell a story. Complement your henna with glowing makeup that enhances your natural beauty. Soft golds and earthy tones paired with a bold lip can create a captivating look that draws attention to your festive elegance.
Comfort Meets Elegance: As food and festivities abound, comfort is crucial. Look for outfits that allow you to move freely while looking fabulous. Fabrics like georgette, chiffon, and silk drape beautifully and provide an effortless elegance. Consider long flowy dresses or tailored kurtas that ensure comfort while you celebrate with family and friends.
For the Gents: Chic and Classic. Men's fashion for Eid 2025 is all about sophistication and style. Classic kurta sets in soft colours or modern silhouettes can keep you looking sharp. Pair these with embellished sandals or loafers for a complete look. Accessories such as lightweight shawls or traditional caps can add a touch of elegance to any outfit.
Conclusion. Eid 2025 was the perfect occasion to showcase your personal style while honoring traditions. From soft pastels to sustainable fashion choices, the trends this year will help create a standout outfit that feels uniquely yours. Embrace the fusion of tradition and modernity, and let your fashion reflect the joy and spirit of this beautiful festival. Enjoy the celebrations, and I pray your Eid was filled with love, laughter, and, of course, stunning fashion.
Sustainable Fashion Choices. With the rising awareness of sustainability, many fashionistas are opting for eco-friendly choices. Look for brands that prioritize ethical practices and sustainable materials. Organic cotton or recycled fabric can be just as luxurious when tailored into beautiful kaftans or kurtas. Not only will you look fabulous, but you'll also feel good about your contribution to the environment.
Mixing Traditions. Eid fashion in 2025 celebrates the beauty of fusion. Mixing traditional outfits with contemporary pieces creates a unique and stylish look. Pair a classic sharara with a modern crop top or an embellished dupatta draped over a chic jumpsuit. The possibilities are endless when you blend styles from different cultures.
Layer Smartly: Utilizing layers is key to achieving the Elevated Comfort aesthetic. Throw on an oversized blazer over a soft tee for a polished look that doesn’t sacrifice comfort.
Accessorize with intention: Use accessories to infuse your vibe. A chic belt bag or oversized sunglasses can instantly uplift your outfit while remaining practical.
Footwear Matters: Opt for stylish yet comfortable footwear—think sleek sneakers or low-heeled mules. This ensures you can stay on the move without compromising your style.
Embracing the trend. As we embrace Elevated Comfort, the focus shifts to designing a wardrobe that is as adaptable as it is stylish. This trend encourages individuals to express their personal style in a way that prioritizes well-being and ease.
With fashion-forward yet functional pieces, you can effortlessly transition from a day at home to an evening out or a casual coffee date. So, keep an eye out for elevated comfort in the coming season—it’s not just a trend, but a lifestyle that redefines what it means to be stylishly comfortable.
The Essence of Elevated Comfort
Elevated Comfort takes inspiration from the growing demand for versatile pieces that can transition between home and outings. These garments are designed to feel as good as they look, with soft fabrics, relaxed silhouettes, and thoughtful details that elevate the everyday wardrobe.
The Essence of Elevated Comfort
Key Elements of the Trend
Soft and Sustainable Fabrics: Expect to see luxurious materials such as organic cotton, bamboo, and cashmere blends dominating the collections. These fabrics not only provide comfort but also align with the eco-conscious mindset that is becoming increasingly important to consumers.
Relaxed Silhouettes: Oversized sweaters, wide-leg trousers, and flowy maxi dresses are at the forefront of this trend. The idea is to offer a looser fit that allows for ease of movement without sacrificing style.
Fashion-Forward Loungewear: Think chic joggers paired with tailored blazers or stylish cardigans layered over simple tees. Brands are blurring the lines between home wear and street style, making loungewear acceptable for any occasion.
Monochromatic Palettes with Pops of Colour: While neutral tones will reign supreme for a sophisticated look, don’t be surprised to see bursts of bright colors or unexpected prints making an appearance. Accessories can also play a pivotal role in adding personality to an outfit.
Functional Details: Expect to see smart features like adjustable waistbands, pockets, and breathable panels in designs. These elements enhance both the functionality and style of everyday outfits.
Brother Vellies (Aurora James): Founded by Canadian-born, New York-based designer Aurora James, Brother Vellies is a pioneer in sustainable luxury fashion. Inspired by the traditional footwear of various African cultures, James blends age-old techniques with contemporary design. The brand emphasizes craftsmanship and works closely with artisans from North Africa, incorporating vibrant colors and rich textures that speak to a global audience. Each piece tells a story, combining functionality with an artistic flair that is unmistakably African.
Tiffany Amber: Nigerian designer Tiffany Ambrose is known for her ability to fuse contemporary and traditional styles. Her collections are characterized by bold patterns, rich textiles, and vibrant colors that celebrate African culture. Ambrose’s work often features intricate embroidery and luxurious fabrics, reflecting the heritage of Nigerian craftsmanship while appealing to global trends. Her designs empower women by embodying confidence and elegance, making her one of Africa's most celebrated fashion figures.
Laduma Ngxokolo (Maxhosa Africa): Laduma Ngxokolo, the creative force behind Maxhosa Africa, has gained international acclaim for his knitwear that draws on the Xhosa culture of South Africa. His designs incorporate patterns and motifs inspired by traditional Xhosa beadwork, celebrating heritage while adopting a modern silhouette. Maxhosa resonates deeply with those looking for authenticity in fashion, with garments that not only look stunning but also encapsulate a rich narrative rooted in African identity.
Gert-Johan Coetzee: South African designer Gert-Johan Coetzee is known for his bold glamour and innovative use of fabrics. His designs often feature eye-catching patterns and vibrant colors that draw immediate attention and provoke intrigue.
