Mackenzie Sullivan
Tuesday, March 5, 2024
Mastering the Model Off Duty Look with African Fashion
When you hear the phrase, “model off duty”, who do you think of? Names like Bella and Gigi Hadid, Kendall Jenner, and Hailey Bieber may come to mind. However, the thing about this western world of the “Model off Duty” look is that it can often be a little bland: blue jeans, black blazers, dirty sneakers, gray sweatshirts…the list goes on. While there is nothing wrong with these pieces of clothing, everyone reading this knows that here at Obioma Fashion we LOVE fun colors and patterns. We also love trends. So, when we heard about the Model Off Duty trend, we knew we had to hop on it, fast, and of course, put our own African flair on it. We want to help you stay trendy, but not blend in, and still show off your sense of personal style all at the same time!
The world of fashion is a dynamic and ever-evolving realm, where trends and styles constantly shape and redefine our sense of expression. One exciting avenue that has been gaining prominence in recent years is the infusion of African fashion into the model off-duty look. With its rich cultural heritage and diverse textile traditions, African fashion brings a vibrant and unique flair to the otherwise classic and minimalist model off-duty aesthetic. The model off-duty look has traditionally been associated with a laid-back and effortlessly chic style, often characterized by comfortable yet stylish basics. Incorporating African fashion into this mix allows for a celebration of diversity, bringing in the rich tapestry of colors, patterns, and textures that are deeply rooted in the continent's cultural heritage.
A great way to start to incorporate these colors and patterns in, is to start with a basic outfit: jeans and a plain shirt. Now, instead of laying a boring black blazer or gray sweatshirt over top, opt for something with a pop of color, like the Aziza Kimono, which will give you an interesting element to your outfit in three ways: through color, pattern, and silhouette. This kimono serves the same purpose as the traditional black jacket, but gives you something that the other people on the street in streetwear will not have.
One of the most distinctive features of African fashion is its bold and vibrant prints and patterns. Incorporating these into the model off-duty look can instantly elevate the ensemble, adding a touch of personality and flair. Think about pairing a classic white tee with a vibrant Ankara print skirt or trousers for a striking and eye-catching combination. The key is to embrace the boldness of African prints while keeping the overall silhouette simple and relaxed. We are incredibly proud of our collection of African Ankara prints for dresses, blazers, and anything else you can think of. They are bold and beautiful on their own, but if you want to tone them down a little more for the perfect Model Off Duty accessory or pop of color in an outfit, they work great for that purpose, too. Just imagine, seeing Kendall Jenner walk down the street in one of these beautiful dresses from our collection, yeah…it would be all over TikTok within minutes! These prints are stunning and the cuts of the dresses are casual enough for them to work perfectly for the Model Off Duty trend. Quick, try it out for yourself before you’re accused of copying one of the Hadid sisters- have them be accused of copying you!
Incorporating African fashion into the model off-duty look is not just a style choice; it's a celebration of cultural richness, diversity, and a step towards a more inclusive fashion landscape. Embrace the bold prints, vibrant colors, and unique accessories that African fashion offers, and let your style speak a language that transcends borders and embraces the beauty of a global fashion community. The model off-duty look becomes a canvas for expressing the richness of African heritage, creating a harmonious blend that is both timeless and contemporary.