Top Designers Love Fashion Inspired By Africa

African-inspired fashion design was one of the top trends of the four major fashion shows for Spring/Summer 2012. The AFWNY team is so excited about this, and we think everyone can pick up a little something from the African-inspired collections to add to their wardrobes.

Burberry Prorsum brought East Africa to the runway with a diverse range of colors and textures. The splashes of color and geometric stripes mixed with earthy tones definitely gave off an African vibe. The influence in the collection was mainly seen in their accessories, particularly the clutch bags.

Michael Kors’ named his Spring 2012 collection “Afri-luxe” , based off his stay at a resort in Singita. “Prints paired with low-key and practical jackets, pocketed belts, and knee-length, lace up sandals culminates the ultimate chic safari look” says Style Bistro. One of his signature looks has always been animal print, so it’s no surprise he built upon that and kept the African influence at a high.

Sass & Bide created a new collection featuring beaded tops and tribal style shorts, but it’s the accessories that make the African feel come to life. The traditional African necklace designs, like tubular chokers, and large pendants were recreated using what appears to be brightly colored plastic as statement necklaces.

Mixed animal print with light, floaty textures creates

a tribal-hippy collection that everyone is raving about lately. African fashion is really taking hold in America, as it goes along perfectly with the bohemian, free-spirited look that’s been in style for the past year or so now.