June ’17

African Issue

June

A good friend of mine and I were conversing about the multiple façades of fashion and how some are more obtainable than others. I knew where this conversation was going since he is a big supporter of his African culture and produces some of the biggest shows overseas. Then the question I anticipated finally was asked, “Why doesn’t i-fashion do an African issue?” I explained how diverse we try to be and not just focus on minority talent but all talent. All talents of all races. He then explained that dong an issue about a particular culture may educate your readers more because you are now opening a door that is not normally covered in this business. OK, now he got me thinking. If I did an African issue, will I lose readers, will sales be as good, will we be frowned on as only catering to one group. Most likely NOT.

I-Fashion has come so far over the years because we dared to push the button. If Vogue only did a black issue, how would the African American community take it? Most likely we would look at ourselves and ask “Why didn’t we do that?”

Well, here it is. My friend got us into some fantastic African shows. We met and interviewed some upcoming Models and designers and also got to know the names and uses of many of the African garments. Such as the aso oke. What is that you may ask?.. People usually refer to aso oke, as the traditional Yoruba women’s garment. It consists of four parts:
Buba – Yoruba blouse, Iro – a wrap skirt, Gele – head tie and Iborun or Ipele – shawl or shoulder sash. It is so interesting how the mixture of colors and patterns come together in the garment and are not only fashionable there, but accepted here in the western world

There is so much to learn in this fashion life. I hope that if nothing else, it gives you the desire to be open-minded about all the fashionable things around us and entices you to step out of your comfort zone.

As always, Thanks for your support and Enjoy

Lloyd Crawford
Editor-n-Chief
www.i-fashionmag.com