THE CLASSIC BLEND OF OLD & NEW

Monday, March 8, 2010

Khanga ---- Africa in FASHION!

Khanga ????  What is Khanga?  
Khanga, is a fabulous patterned and bright colored cotton fabric made and worn in Eastern Africa by women and sometimes men. Traditionally Khangas are worn over womens skirts while working in the fields to keep the dust off of their clothing.  They too are worn as head wraps. Khanga in Swahili means guinea hen(fowl), whom are known for their bright colors.  Rightly so Khangas  are normally very bright and colorful.  Many times along the border of the Khanga  are messages in Swahili other  countries will many times use the main language of their country rather than Swahili.  These messages are usually riddles or proverbs. 
 
  
 
 
 

Khangas have been worn now  for 80+ years. It seems though that they are starting to fall out of favor in parts of African as younger women prefer to dress in more Western  styles.  Ironically Western designers and too some African designers  are revitalizing Khanga and Khanga inspired prints into very fashion forward pieces. Both high end designers and department retail stores are locking in on this FABULOUS trend. While it is a TREND, I feel, believe and know that these patterns will always be in vogue, and with the proper styling, accessory and shoe you too can stay fashionable for years to come.
Celebrities too have taken to wearing Khanga and Khanga inspired items, both on the red carpet and in music videos.
Alicia Keys
 
Beyonce   
 

Estelle
 

Kimora

Victoria Powell
Solange


Designers that use Khanga and Khanga inspired prints:

 
  


  
  
  


Suno 

  
 


Mustafa Hassanali

 
 


 


 

Khanga Skirt

 

If you are unable to afford or even find some of the above mentioned clothing lines or likewise inspired clothing lines opt for vintage pieces that you can get altered, or buy your own fabric and find an affordable seamstress to copy and or create a pattern for you.
My take on Khanga, and inspired Khanga clothing: I LOVE IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Find what works for you and give it a try! 

Peace, Love & VINTAGE!!!!

1 comment:

ESS AY VEE OH EL OH YOO ESS! said...

BEAUTIFUL!
I love it and want it ALL.