Zawadi's Lounge: AFRICAN PRINTS TAKING THE WORLD BY STORM!!!!!

Recently fashion lovers and trend setters in Africa and abroad have embraced vibrant multi colored cotton fabric that has been so warmly embraced and worn by many. The trend is now seen almost everywhere in streets, catwalks and in every walks of life

Kitenge or chitenge is an African garment similar to sarong, often worn by women wrapped around the chest or waist, over the head as a headscarf, or as a baby sling.

Kitenge used as a baby sling

Kitenges are similar to kangas and kikoy, but are of a thicker cloth, and have an edging only on a long side. Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Sudan are some of the African countries where kitenge is worn. Malawi, Namibia and Zambia, kitenge is known as Chitenge. They are also sometimes worn by men around the waist in hot weather. In some countries like Malawi, Chitenges are never worn by men. Kitenges informal piece of clothing that is often decorated with a huge variety of colors, patterns and even political slogans. Theprinting on the cloth is done by a traditional batik technique. Many of the designs have a meaning. A large variety of religious and political designs is found as well as traditional tribal patterns. The cloth is used as material for dresses as well were matching African print skirts and tops are usually lined with a 100% cotton material. Many African print dresses are lined as well. Matching African print tops and wrappers (excluding Senegal and a few other African countries), Men’s African Print matching sets and children African print sets are generally not lined. African prints are generally not see through. Some African print patterns have some significance. However, most of them are abstract.

International designers are also embracing the trend and even during the Milan Fashion week Spring/Summer 2014 African prints were the name of the game by Stella Jean has led to something of a charmed fashion life recently - with Giorgio Armani as a benefactor. Even her benefactor had this to comment about the amazing collection she put together for that show " I hope that this experience brings her luck," said Armani and, considering the buzz around the show in the days leading up to it, it has.

Some of the Stella Jean wonderful creations

Last year we were amazed to see so many celebrities wearing African prints. The African couture is slowly becoming the new “thing” in Hollywood, as more celebrities are spotted out and about rocking African clothing. Check out these images of your favorite stars in African print.