Thursday 3 May 2012

Af-Ccessory of the day

Some of you might recognise this African print necklace from the recent BET promos on TV. 

From the 'Power Patch Collection' by FAWL, this is one beautiful neck piece. 

FAWL Accessories necklace


We just love the mix of hard metal and Ankara...GENIUS!

Just imagine this with a work shirt, a bustier or just a simple vest top as pictured. 

How would you wear it?

Image source(s) and links





Nónó Moda: African print boots in the style of Jeffrey Campbell



People often look at a pair of Jeffrey Campbell's and think of pain! However, you'll be surprised at just how comfortable they are.

The platform at the front of the shoe removes most of the height from the heel and having the rounded toe off the ground makes them some of the most comfortable heels you might ever wear!




And if you like Jeffrey Campbell's you'll absolutely LOVE these.

These sexy creations from portugese accessory designer Nónó Moda are an African print shoe dream come true! No explanation needed...just enjoy!


Nónó Moda African Print Jeffrey Campbell style

Nónó Moda African Print Jeffrey Campbell style

African Print Jeffrey Campbell styleAfrican Print Jeffrey Campbell style

Nónó Moda African Print Jeffrey Campbell style



Nónó Moda African Print Jeffrey Campbell style


 These boots are A MUST HAVE... and  they come with a matching top and purse too!
Nónó Moda

Nónó Moda

[Ok, you can stop dribbling now!] 

Image sources and links


Nónó Moda on Facebook
Nónó Moda blog
Shop Jeffrey Campbell



Wednesday 2 May 2012

Afro Flat-tery (part 1)


A few days ago Beyonce, the World's most beautiful woman (as named by People Magazine)
went for a stroll with baby Ivy Blue. Only this time there were no Louboutins in sight as she wore flat sandals! 

Beyonce wearing sandals


With the baby here, it looks like she's ditched the platforms, turning to flats for regular strolls saying "I never thought there would be a day when I wouldn't wear heels..." 

Even B's hubby Jay Z showed some love for her new look. She said  "[Jay] loves it when I wear flat shoes, which is surprising- he never saw me in flats before! He likes me more natural – just the relaxed, natural me.”

If like B, you're looking to keep it sexy in flats this summer, why not try these African print alternatives to sandals:

Mawube Couture

Mawube Couture African print sandals

Mawube Couture African print sandals


KStar

K Star African print sandals



Original Kente cloth flip flops by Kobby Amoa-Mensah

Kobby Amoa-Mensah kente sandals


Sepha

Sepha African Print Sandals


We can't seem to find these Sigerson Morrison sandals anywhere but spotted a similar pair in Primark so go get you some quick hunni! 

Sigerson Morrison African print sandals




*Look out for Afro Flat-tery part 2!*

Image sources and links:


Daily Mail


Mawube couture


KStar


Kobby Amoa-Mensah


Bangli Jangli


Loeffler Randall for “Audra” sandals


Sepha Facebook




Shop


Sepha


Sigerson Morrison on Polyvore





Tuesday 1 May 2012

Ankara meets NYC

Kim K was recently spotted out and about shopping in NYC in this simple yet stylish houndstooth and white shirt ensemble, paired with Louboutin's.

Kim Kardashian in Louboutin'sKim Kardashian in Louboutin's

True to iLoveAnkara style, we decided that the outfit could do with some Afro tweaking with an African print clutch. We think any of the Ani Siyah clutches below would be an ideal match to Kim's outfit. 

Ani Siyah clutches

Ani Siyah clutches

Ani Siyah clutches

Which would you prefer?


We see Amber Rose is already ahead in the game. She was snapped with these Ani Siyah clutches whilst visiting Ghana last year.

Amber Rose holding Ani Siyah clutches

Looks like she got there first on both occasions - bagged the clutch AND Mr West ;)




Although there's no guarantee that this look will bag you the Beau, it will definitely put you in the right position.

Images and links


Fashion Dare: Print on print inspired outfit


If you're anything like the first lady Michelle Obama, then a bold colourful vibrant printed dress like this Naeem Khan gown is a definite MUST have. A loose short curled bob spotted here by Mrs O gives the entire look a cute and soft feel.


Tip: When going for print on print, make sure you choose a blend of colours that will enhance and look good with your skin tone, make sure the design of the print best symbolises who you are as an individual! 

We love this River Island print dress on Asos



Note: You could funk up this look with a bit of ankara sheek, sleek your hair back and add Ituen Basi's Oghogo bangles or a pair of their Oghogo hooped earrings. Print on print is not only bold and daring but is definitely set to get heads turning. However, choose one or the other - don't over accessorise.
 

Check out the rest of the Ituen Basi collection for a bold, beautiful and sexy print on print look!


Be bold take the risk #yolo

Naeem Khan's runway version of Mrs O's stunning dress! 




Image source(s) and links






For professional image consulting tips on matching colour to skin tone in make-up, fashion and more click here

Ituen Basi - Pioneers of African print jewellery and accessories?


With African print jewellery and accessories becoming the latest fashion craze, some of you may have wondered who started it? Who did it first? 

Probably one of the earliest pioneers of the trend is the Ituen Basi. Hailing from Nigeria, their Signature necklace and Oghogo hoop earrings and bangles were  produced for their Ankara & Beads collection back in 2009.
Ituen Basi beads and bangles

Ituen Basi hoops

 Check out their Oghogho bangles; Nkoyo purse and Emeka footwear from their 2011 Independence collection. 


Ituen Basi accessories

They even went as far as making african print bike helmets which featured in their 2011 runway shows and Autumn/Winter look book. 
Ituen Basi helmets

Ituen Basi helmet



Their earrings are just £7.50 but with the main focus being on 'the detail' (as their 'It's in the detail' slogan says) the quality of the Ituen Basi pieces allow them to command a high price with beads starting from £30.

Ituen Basi beads

With pieces from way back in 2009, we think Ituen Basi were the first when it comes to African print jewellery and accessories...do you agree?

Image source(s) and links: 




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