The Weekly Lifestyle Blog by Lydia, every Friday at 1700 hrs. Nr 93 29th March 2024
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, this week's subjects: A Tale of Creativity and Appropriation, The Call for Authentic Collaboration and Empowering African Designers, Neckties, Photographers, and Kata Garden Bistro Restaurant.
A Tale of Creativity and Appropriation
The Dark Side of Cultural Appropriation
Borrowing vs. Appropriation: While cross-cultural inspiration is essential for artistic growth, there's a fine line between appreciation and appropriation. Western fashion brands have often borrowed elements from African aesthetics without proper acknowledgment or respect. From runway shows to high-end boutiques, we've witnessed African-inspired prints, beadwork, and silhouettes being co-opted without involving African designers or communities.
The Luxury Fashion Landscape: Luxury brands have been particularly guilty of appropriating African designs. Whether it's using Maasai beadwork in accessories or incorporating Ankara prints into high-end collections, these actions raise questions about ethics, representation, and economic justice. The lack of credit and financial compensation for African creators perpetuates a cycle of exploitation.
The Call for Authentic Collaboration and Empowering African Designers: It's time for a shift. Instead of mere inspiration, Western fashion should actively collaborate with African designers. By partnering with local artisans, supporting sustainable practices, and giving credit where it's due, the industry can foster genuine exchange. Initiatives like Fashion Revolution advocate for transparency, fair wages, and ethical production across the globe.
Celebrating Diversity: African fashion is not a monolith. It encompasses 54 countries, each with many unique styles, textiles, and craftsmanship. By celebrating this diversity, Western fashion can move beyond stereotypes and engage in meaningful dialogue. Let's amplify African voices, learn from their creativity, and appreciate the beauty of cultural exchange.
African fashion is more than a trend: it's a living legacy. As Western fashion continues to draw inspiration from Africa, let's honor the roots, acknowledge the creators, and celebrate the beauty of collaboration. By weaving together our stories, we can create a global tapestry that reflects the richness of our shared humanity.
Neckties, and “the times they are a changing”. (title of a song by Bob Dylan, 1964). Neckties date back to around 1630 when the French king hired Croatian soldiers (these days we would call them mercenaries) and as part of their uniform, they wore a piece of cloth around their neck. The king liked this neckpiece and made these ties mandatory for royal gatherings. As the elite French monarchy was now wearing them, the custom quickly spread across Europe. Over the years, the style and the design of ties have changed, and in 1923, a tie maker from New York named Jesse Langsdorf patented a new way of cutting fabric on an angle, and then sewing it in three segments to create the Langsdorf Necktie.
Even though the width and length have expanded and shrunken over the years, the Langsdorf original design has remained till today. In the 1930s, the Windsor knot was created by the Duke of Windsor. In the 80s, tie makers created a myriad of different neck-wear styles, and additional lining and interlining to the interior of the tie ensured that the tie lays flatter and neater against the chest, and these ties are easier to knot. But our modern tie has remained almost untouched for 100 years. But then, these days, who wears a tie? I recently came across a René Chagal Myung Ju silk tie, about the most expensive silk commonly available. I have searched René Chagal without result, his ties are widely available, both new and 2nd hand, but it seems René went out of business before the internet was invented, and my search engines give no information on the man. A closer look at the tie shows it cost 15,400 Yen at that time, about 65 US Dollars. But ties are mostly outmoded now, mine was used to bind a roll of foam I bought.
RENE CHAGAL MYUNG JU SILK TIE WITH WINDSOR KNOT
Photographers: For a bit of family gathering, we used to hire a photographer and then eagerly wait for the pictures to be brought back, and then ask for copies to be printed for all. The Smartphone has changed all that, but to make sure we are all in the picture, someone else has to take that picture. So either you ask the neighbour to step in (he may demand his part of the food) or you go to a restaurant where you get very experienced photographers, the waiters. A tip is welcome but often not asked for.
Kata Gardens Bistro Restaurant: Tunemete Street, Dzorwulu, Accra. Having heard about this and seen the beautiful pictures of freshly cooked lobsters, we decided to look in on a Monday night. We called to reserve a table and this should have warned us, the lady mentioned that we should make a deposit. This is not unusual at the top restaurants in Europe, after all not showing up may mean an empty table and less income, so often you make a deposit to be taken against your final bill. But this being Ghana and a Monday night, we didn't accept that but drove straight there. We were asked if we had made a reservation (the place was almost empty), and they confirmed that there was no reservation because we had not made a deposit. Then we were asked if we wanted to sit in the open or an airconditioned part, behind glass, we chose that but then again they wanted a deposit. We replied that we did not even know if we wanted to eat there, could they show us the menu or explain the types of food they were selling? Lady Love pointed at a QR code on the table (wonder how much business they did when the internet was off), and we asked for a hard copy, which they did not have, neither was Lady Love ready to talk about the food. So we left it at that and left. Wonder how they will survive, this is Ghana and new restaurants are springing up every day. Maybe a non-Ghanaian setting up a place with rules from a faraway place, or plain whitewashing.
Lydia...
do not forget to hit the subscribe button and confirm in your email inbox to get notified about our post.
I have received requests about leaving comments/replies. For security and privacy reasons my blog is not associated with major media giants like Facebook or Twitter. I am talking with the host about a solution, for the time being, you can mail me at wunimi@proton.me
I accept invitations and payments to write about certain products or events, things, and people, but I may refuse to accept and if my comments are negative then that's what I will publish, despite your payment. This is not a political newsletter. I do not discriminate on any basis whatsoever.
Aya is Mali born and black but since an early age a French citizen, and this has provoked shockingly racist reactions, according to the organizing committee of the Paris games, and the Paris prosecutor last Friday launched an official racism investigation. Nakamura has managed the impossible by making songs in French “sound danceable”, yet for a large section of the French population seeing a Black woman embody the nation remains “unthinkable”. Nakamura has achieved remarkable global success and is the most listened-to French artist in the world. How long will we all remain racists? At least 4-5 generations is my guess.
Modern African Designers: In contemporary times, African fashion has become a fusion of traditional African styles and modern Western fashion. African designers blend heritage fabrics, bold colours, and innovative silhouettes to create garments that resonate globally. Brands like LemLem, Maxhosa, and Maki Oh have gained international acclaim for their unique designs that celebrate African culture while pushing boundaries.
Paid for by who?
Goat Cheese Salad
Then lemon chicken and jumbo prawns, fresh. 
Jumbo Prawns
The funny thing was that to have a bit of bread with the meal, which is a standard French habit, no dinner without accompanying bread, in this case, we had to purchase a whole bread with which the balance we did “take-away” and which lasted for a week. The service was of level and the prices were of level as well, but not outrageous for what we got. The painful part is the taxes, 24%, and that included a 1% Covid Levy, but then, being obedient citizens we didn’t mind contributing to the construction of whatever our democratically elected Government has in mind to construct for us. Amen.
.
Born Iris Barrel in 1921 in Queens, New York, U.S. as the only child of Samuel Barrel and his Russian-born wife, Sadye (née Asofsky) who owned a fashion boutique she started as a copywriter for Women's Wear Daily, earning $15 a week. She became a businesswoman, interior designer, fashion designer and a model known for her flamboyant style, outspoken personality and oversized eyeglasses. In business she had a career in textiles with her husband, Carl Apfel, including a contract with the White House that spanned nine presidencies. She found the White House to be among the easiest of her clients, as they generally wanted only to replicate what had previously been there. “The one exception, was Jacqueline Kennedy who employed a very famous Parisian designer to gussy up the house and make it a real Frenchie, and the design community went bananas. After that we had to throw it all out and start again”.
1. Maxi Skirts and Dresses:
Flowy maxi skirts and dresses are comfortable and stylish. Choose prints and patterns that resonate with you.
2. African Print Blazers and Jackets:
Opt for blazers or lightweight jackets in African prints. They add flair to any outfit, whether paired with jeans or a skirt.
3. Colorful Sandals and Slides:
Ditch heavy boots and embrace open-toe sandals or slides. Look for bright colors or intricate beadwork.
4. Embrace Ankara Patterns:
Ankara fabrics are richly patterned and versatile. Incorporate them into your wardrobe through dresses, skirts, or tops.
5. Support Local Designers:
Explore local markets, concepts stores and streets for unique finds: the number of local concept stores is on the rise due to the increased demand for African fashion brands.
Precision O, Farrar Avenue/Kojo Thompson Road, Adabraka has quite an extensive range of African brands like Odefille with beautiful Grande Dame collection and custom made pieces, Ellen Gwen, Sangal Women, Victoria Grace, Mikoko Deluxe and Funke Fashion House.
Remember, being single during lovers' season doesn't mean missing out. Embrace your independence, focus on self-improvement, and celebrate the love you have for yourself and others!
Silver is the unsung hero of Valentine's Day hues. Imagine a sleek silver dress with delicate lace detailing—the perfect blend of elegance and modernity. It's unexpected, eye-catching, and a refreshing departure from the usual red. Plus, it's a great excuse to repurpose those holiday season pieces. So, shine bright like a silver star this V-Day!
Lavender: Subtle Romance
Lavender doesn't get enough credit. It's soft, romantic, and oh-so-chic. Picture yourself in a flowy lavender blouse or a dreamy lilac skirt. Pair it with neutral tones or even a touch of pink. Lavender whispers love without shouting it from the rooftops. Trust me; it's in my top three for Valentine's Day vibes.
Pink: Because Flirty Is Always In
Pink—the flirtiest colour in the palette. Whether it's blush, bubblegum, or fuchsia, pink exudes playfulness and femininity. If not red, why not pink? Rock a pink sweater, a rosy scarf, or even candy-coloured sneakers. It's like a sweet love note to your wardrobe.
White: The Ultimate Versatility
White transcends seasons and occasions. Whether you're aiming for chic, laid-back, or sophisticated, white works. Picture a crisp white shirt, a flowing maxi dress, or tailored trousers. It's a canvas waiting for your personal style to shine. And hey, if you're feeling rebellious, throw in some ivory or cream—it's all part of the anti-red movement.
Nude: Timeless Elegance
(Zendaya Maree Stoermer Coleman)
Nude—always a safe bet. Monochromatic nude outfits exude sophistication. Slip into a beige jumpsuit, nude pumps, or a camel-coloured coat. It elongates your legs, flatters your skin tone, and screams understated elegance. Trust me; you can never go wrong with nude.
So, this Valentine's Day, let's defy tradition. Put away the red dress, step out in silver, lavender, pink, white, or nude. Be the trendsetter, the rule-breaker, and the one who turns heads for all the right reasons. Love doesn't need a specific colour—it's in the way you
carry yourself. Happy Valentine's Day!
