Miss Black Africa UK 2014 - 2015 Calender

British Nigerian model and Miss Black Africa UK 2014 - 2015, Jacqueline Ilumoka (21-year old), alongside her fellow princesses and finalists have released a stunning charity calendar for 2015 to raise money for the less privileged.  

This marks the beginning of a year long campaign to support handicapped children in Africa. Jacqueline and her team will be embarking on a 3-week mission to visit two schools at Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria in March 2015.

Here is a few of the stunning pictures, for a full list click on the original link below:

Visit the link below to see the rest of the pictures originally posted by "Gistmania"
http://www.gistmania.com/talk/?action=gallery;cat=2304

In Celebration of Kwanzaa

Happy Kwanzaa to all and in celebration, enjoy this African-inspired Photo Shoot

Shoot by: Superior Magazine with special thanks to Africa Fashion Day Berlin

Photo: FABIAN BLASCHKE I Styling: KRISTIAN BARELLA GREVE I Hair & Make-up: SABINE SZEKELY USING HIRO COSMETICS, PRTTY PEAUSHUN, ILIA BEAUTY I Models: LUCY @ VIVA MODELS & VINCENT @ KULT MODELS

Today is Ujamaa, (Cooperative Economics) in Kwanzaa. Kwanzaa is a week-long celebration held in the US and also celebrated in the African Diaspora.The celebration honors African heritage and takes place from December 26 to January 1st. 

The fashion shoot by Superior Magazine with support of  African Fashion Day Berlin uses Kwanzaa and African fashion as inspiration.

Kwanzaa has seven core principles: 

• Umoja - Unity
• Kujichagulia - Self-Determination
• Ujima - Collective Work and Responsibility
• Ujamaa - Cooperative Economics
• Nia - Purpose
• Kuumba - Creativity
• Imani - Faith

Find out more: 
w: www.africafashiondayberlin.com

f: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Africa-Fashion-Day-Berlin

Original Post from: http://www.africanprintinfashion.com/2014/12/happy-kwanzaa-africa-inspired-photo.html

Balmain Menswear Campaign--Starring KIMYE

I have always enjoyed their coordinating style as a couple. I think these pictures are awesome and i had to share them with you too.

Mario Sorrenti

Kim Kardashian and Kanye West are haute couture and hot, too!

Fashion's first couple stars in Balmain's Spring/Summer 2015 menswear campaign, and in the first, super-sexy campaign image released today on Monday, Kim is just centimeters away from kissing 'Ye!

In this first pic from #TheBalmainLove campaign, photographed by Mario Sorrentini, Kanye models, a black blazer from the line's Spring/Summer collection. Kim also slips into the line, wearing a black cut-out dress very similar to the one sister Kendall Jenner modeled at Balmain's show during Paris Fashion Week.

Mario Sorrenti

"For this Menswear campaign, I wanted to capture a moment of love. Kim and Kanye are style icons and friends," Balmain creative director Olivier Rousteing said in a statement. "It is an honour to have them in this Balmain campaign. Together, they represent love, beauty and diversity—they are the new modernity. This is more than a campaign, it expresses something beyond clothes—it is a celebration of love and friendship. This is a new statement for Balmain."

Mario Sorrenti

Even their beautiful daughter, North West also has some designer threads from the line. Back in October, Kim Instagrammed a picture of a thoughtful gift from Balmain's creative director: Three custom blazers to match her mama!

Mario Sorrenti
Original post  from:http://www.eonline.com/news/608563/kim-kardashian-and-kanye-west-star-in-sexy-balmain-menswear-campaign-see-the-pics

COLOR FOR 2015

The Pantone gods have officially spoken.  She’s sophisticated, she’s 90s grunge-inspired, and she’s 2015’s Color Of The Year. (Drum roll, please.) Allow us to introduce you to…

The new year’s hottest color may remind you of that wine stain on your favorite blouse . Marsala,” is an earthy deep red hue that looks amazeballs on every skin tone.  The rustic, earthy, red-brown color has already taken over the red carpet (see above), and we have a hunch that it’s about to take over your entire wardrobe, too (lip color totally included).

How will you incorporate this into your own wardrobe in the coming year? Share your looks with us.

Rock Your Ankara all year long.

There is a big misconception out there that Ankara is meant only for Spring/Summer, I beg to differ. I think it all depends on how you wear it. For example just yesterday I wore an Ankara high-waisted pant  but with leggings in the bottom to protect me from the chills of the winter. Here is the picture below and of others also rocking the trend too, Wear Your Ankara in Winter too. ENJOY!!!





 And Others.....

Rihanna Rocking the African Prints channeling "Scandal" at the White House

My Hunt for a Perfect Outwear for Fall

We all know that the winter season can be a downer on one's fashion parade--especially to us Fashionistas. This is because no matter how well dressed you are, your outwear is what people see of you mostly unless you are indoor or you choose to battle the elements.

I am an avid Fashionista (hey, I have my own line) but I do not like to be cold, so I am wise enough to know that investing in warm and stylish coats is my best option--well, that and a nice bag/boot for the season. So every year, I try to add a new piece to my collection. The only rule is that I will only buy one piece whether it be on trend or not. As long as its different, unique and not a budget buster ofcource. I was already giving up on finding 'THE ONE" when I came across the picture below on SHEINSIDE.COM:







Between you and I, I fell madly in love and even though I make it a rule not to duplicate colors in my outwear, I just knew I had to have it so I placed an order. To my disappointment the order was cancelled because it was sold out. I proceeded to check the website everyday to no avail. On the 7th day as I was lamenting and wondering if indeed I was meant to have this coat--after-all, by buying it I would be breaking my own code. I got a bright idea to goggled the coat, There were a couple of sites who sold the item but they were also affiliated with "SHEINSIDE"--so no luck there. The other thing I discovered was that this coat was inspired by another VERY EXPENSIVE one (almost $3,000).

Suddenly, my hunt and desire took a new meaning--by now I was just  OBSESSED, the coat became a do or die for me. I was just about to give up when a couple of days ago, I was lucky enough to come across a different version on OASAP.COM and for under $40 whereas the previous order I placed was for double the amount. (Picture Below)

If you want the original, by all means go for it but as for me, i am rejoicing in finding this beautiful coat and what is more besides being unique, and stylish, it is also thankfully a different shade from the original ( I am no longer violating my own code) but above all; IT IS ON TREND with its irregular hem--what more can a girl ask for?

Do you have a special outwear of your own? Share your pictures with us on our social media.

The Asymmetric/Iregular Hem Trend

Much as it did last year, the Asymmetrical trend is still going strong and ain't going nowhere. Much of this seasons' styles demonstrate that not all styles must walk the straight and narrow part. This fact was glaring on runway after runway shows in forms of asymmetric hemlines that taper off, sharp one-shouldered pieces demonstrated with sharp and precise tailoring techniques such as tucking, folding, draping and pleating.

I can't wait to try this new trend although I must confess I am already a participant via the high-low hem which is also a form of the Asymmetric trend. Now I am upping my game--ARE YOU IN? Share how you plan to rock this trend with us on twitter or instant-gram.

SPLENDEUR collection by Vlisco

"Memorable fashion requires brave, bold moves" and that is exactly what VLISCO NEW COLLECTION REPRESENTS.  They created extra SPLENDEUR with embroidery, sequins and crystals with their new collections. This is the very height of what Afriq Expressions believe in and stands for. We are truly inspired--stay tuned to see how we use them in our very own Kouture collection.

Afriq Expressions is featured in the 12th edition of Dunia print magazine

It’s here! The 12th edition of DUNIA print magazine featuring international renowned singer/songwriter, Rokia Traore from Mali. Ms Traore shares interesting perspectives on core values, home country Mali and Africa in general, she speaks of success – what it means to her, how she’s been able to grow into the star that she is today, and what she is doing to help other artists develop in their craft.

After the interview earlier this month, DUNIA Magazine publisher Lema Abeng-Nsah wrote on her blog, “Ms Traore spoke with me today from Bamako, the capital city of Mali – a country she loves dearly and is happy to help rebuild. We had an insightful conversation on a variety of topics. Rokia was upfront and very easy to talk to.” So what can you expect? Coming soon!!!

Also in this edition, you will find informative thoughts on family, relationships, health … and why not books and recipes. You will meet the talented fashion designer at Afriq expressions as she shares photos of her latest works, plus tips for fashionistas. How about travel? We’re taking you into the the fascinating world of New Mexico where you’re sure to discover a few surprises. As you know by now, DUNIA print magazine can best be described as colorful and unpredictable … this time is no different.

Watch out for your free digital magazine, which will be available by October 10th! Don’t forget to join DUNIA’s mailing list in order to be amongst the first to receive notification. Follow us on Twitter, connect on Facebook, and Instagram.

Print magazine subscription
If you haven’t done so yet, don’t hesitate to subscribe now. The print magazine experience is so much more tangible.

—

Sneak Peak: Q & A, plus Afriq Expressions spread on the inside of this edition of DUNIA Magazine

How to Pull Off Kim Kardashian's Breezy Skirt & Bodysuit Combo

AKM-GSI

Kim Kardashian was spotted all over the Hamptons this summer and in true Kim style she was dressed to the nines each and every day (and night). 

One of our favorite looks so far? The E! star's feminine and flirty pleated Celine skirt (which goes for $2,050!) paired with a seriously sexy black scoop neck bodysuit.  The 33-year-old finished the summery ensemble with a pair of black and white snakeskin Dior sandals, which would set you back a cool $1,050, in case you're wondering. 

You too can recreate this look on a budget . For the bodysuit, try a $40 one from American Apparel—and remember the amount of skin you show is optional. To show side boob or not to show side boob is totally up to you. As for the skirt, we love this version from Farfetch. It looks just like the Celine skirt Kim chose but the price is only $181. And last, while Kardashian's Dior sandals are just beyond, these snakeskin strappy heels from Zara for just under $100 will certainly do too. 

Tweet @mgarciastyling!She would love to see how you rock this outfit or if there's a celeb look you are crazy about, let her know! Your questions and suggestions could be the trend she selects for the next Ask a Stylist! 

Reposted from: http://www.eonline.com/news/556798/ask-a-stylist-how-to-pull-off-kim-kardashian-s-breezy-skirt-bodysuit-combo

The Braving Ritual by Chinedesign

Original post from: http://www.africanprintinfashion.com/

 Photographer: Adeyemi Adegbasan (better known as SoTeeOh)

 Model: Aluad Deng Anei

Based in Toronto, Canada, Chinedu took his inspiration "from the warrior spirit it often requires to face and conquer the sometimes harsh winters of the Great White North". The collection mixes leather, wax print, Scottish tartan wool and indigo-dyed bogolan fabrics from Mali. This mix is what makes the creations from Chinedesign so unique and innovative. The jacket just looks haute and amazing, the shirt dress cool, stylish and trendy. 

Find out more:
f: https://www.facebook.com/Chinedesign
w: http://www.chinedesign.com/
t: https://twitter.com/Chinedesign
i: http://instagram.com/chinedesign

Exoctic Jewelry designs by Anita Quansah

Reposted from:http://www.africanprintinfashion.com/2013/12/breathtaking-anita-quansah-london-ss14.html

Photographer Asiko Fine Art Photography
Stylist. Crystal Deroche Styling
Model: Ayoola
Make-up Artist: Mikhaila Pratt

The queen of statement pieces: Anita Quansah London. The design artist of half Ghanaian and half Nigerian heritage recently launched her new collection for Summer 2014.  Check-out the interview by "AFRICAN PRINTS IN FASHION" done with Anita Quansah two years ago: "My pieces command attention."

Find out more:

w: http://anitaquansahlondon.com/index.html

f: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Anita-Quansah-London

e: contact@anitaquansahlondon.com

t: https://twitter.com/AnitaQuansahLon 

Duro Olowu SS 2015 Collection

Original Poist from: http://www.africanprintinfashion.com/2014/09/playing-dress-up-duro-olowu-ss-2015.html

The Spring/Summer 2015 collection from print master Duro Olowu looks very much like him - elegant, print-driven. However, more muted and less colorful then his past collections.   Do you have a favourite?