THE INSPIRAT!ON BLOG: African Prints

20100630

Fashion || Designer on the Rise: Boxing Kitten

We are thrilled to share a post regarding our high anticipation of Boxing Kitten's Fall 2010 Collection

African-inspired and printed westernized dress has paved a growing influence on spring and resort lines since the early 2000s.

with so many more options in this area of specialty

(women's contemporary designs inspired by batik and west african fabrics) Boxing Kitten is undoubtedly

a front runner within this design aesthetic.

Designer Maya A. Lake grasped the growing interest in vintage patterns and combined it with an equally

maturing affinity for African prints (sometimes referred to as "ethnic prints;" we prefer the former).

Their Resort 2010 collection provided a more than impressive display of color and print selection

adapted by sleeveless dresses, jackets, skirts, shorts and pants; looks that have been

worn and well-supported by natural beauties including Solange Knowles and Erykah Badu.

Printed shoes are also available this season.

We are expecting major distribution deals in the future for this brand. Not only has she

solidified her niche, Lake has nearly perfected it and locked-in large numbers of the African print and vintage-inspired market.

20100618

Fashion || ESSENCE Magazine does African Luxe: MAASAI

For their April 2010 issue, Essence magazine premieres a spread titled

"MIX MASTER: Africa's Maasai influences collide in a melange of exuberant hues, Silhouettes, and textures."

Photographer: David Roemer
Styled by: Billie Causieestko

Beautifully done. African influenced style taking a stronghold on runways and collections

in high-fashion is what provides me with some enthusiasm; not the African prints.

Why? African prints/fabric is nothing new, but the idea of giving credit to cultural groups within Africa is VERY exciting.

Maasai accessories have made a greater impact on Spring accessories within the past three years.

Check out Pages 128-129 of the issue to get a full scope of how to integrate global fashion into

your wardrobe, and how to get the looks from featured in this blog for less.

via: ESSENCEmag

♥ Designer Jenny P.