Tribe of Dumo Collabo/ An Ankara story

 

Before it was a fashion fad Ankara was typically worn by poor Africans. It was also considered to be a traditional garb for cultural celebrations and holidays. It's now no secret that Fashion enthusiast all over the world just can't get enough of Ankara pieces. celebrities such as Beyoncé (king Bey), Rihanna, Lupita, First Lady Michelle Obama have embraced the Ankara style. In fact it is safe to say that Ankara designs have become so popular that they are now part of main stream fashion scene

 

 

However because Ankara prints tend to be very bold and bright, they are not for the fashionably coy. Which brings me to my post. I collaborated with up and coming Houston sister  designers of 

Tribe of dumo 

 

I instantly fail in love with their pieces when I saw them at African fashion week Houston. Reason being, they have creatively figured out ways to mix polka dots (a classic and fave of mine) with Ankara prints. This not only gives them a signature design that stands out but it adds a new edgy, flirty and urban twist to the traditional Ankara look. 

 

As you can see,  the playsuit speaks for it self in that regard. Love the fact that it can easily be dressed up with killer heels or down with flats which clearly was what I opted for. 

 

How would you guys style this look? And lastly do you think it's culture appropriation or just an inclusion/recognition that Ankara is now part of main stream fashion? Keeping in mind that according to CNN Africa, Ankara has become one of the most commonly exported textile items from Africa. Thoughts? 

As always thank you for stopping by. 

Xo Lulu

 

 Jumpsuit: 

tribe of dumo

Shoes 

choies

Boho Chic

 

I have found that am in my style element when I put on an outfit that has various bohemian, hippie and especially cultural influences in it. Just love the easy not so well put together yet chic the boho style screams. By definition, boho is shortened from bohemian meaning someone who dose not confirm to society and is often focused on the art. You know the free spirits of the world who are daring and wander from the norm (hi great to meet you)

 

Today's post is in sync with the above definition. The whole outfit come together solely inspired by what is referred to as "Munchile" in my native lingo. This is used as a grinder for various food items such as spices, corn, peanuts( makes yummy organic peanut butter) etc. Think of it as a manual blender of some sorts. Anyway the earth tones on the "Munchile " were my primary focus. 

 

With that in mind I bought this gorgeous jumpsuit from misguided for 50% off. I Paired it with a brown belt from forever 21, scarf from Zara, my blessed bracelet sent to me by a Christian jewelry store  called All that glitters. And finally to finish off my boho ensemble I went cave men chic in the shoe department (barefooted lol) 

When are you in your style element? As always thanks for taking a read

Xo Lulu 

 

 

                   Seen on me 

Jumpsuit 

missguided

Scarf 

Zara

Bracelet allthatglitters7 (thank you) 

Vanity J Fashion Show/Lunch Party

 

On April 15th I attended the Vanity J Fashion Show/ Launch party a birth child of creative and talented designer Juanita Wolford. All white attire was a must! And everyone in attendance looked angelic chic in their all white outfits. After all it was around the Easter holiday. As guests arrived they of course checked in with the patrons, then they had the option of taking a flick on the fabulous red carpet or having a mini session of retail therapy with the different and enticing products various vendors had on display 

 

   

The next room was where the magic would happen later. The bar had drinks and cocktails that guests sipped on as they mixed, mingled and networked with other attendees. Opposite to that was the beautiful runway, goodie bags for VIP guests were in site on the front role and of course what's any show without a DJ. 

 The show opened up with performances. First was a talented ballerina dancer 

 

Songtress Skyrah Bliss

 

And last but not the least, the talented Sotrel 

 

And then it was the much anticipated fashion show. Morden, chic and contemporary bold woman was the storyline to the collection. Denim and leather were like a perfect inseparable marriage in my favorite piece ( refer to the main pic of the blog post). The collection gave you different outfits choices for whatever outing you would fancy. It be going to church, black tie event, cocktails with your girls, birthday, or a cozy dinner date. She had it all. 

 

  

After show, the designer elaborated on what inspired her line, all the hard work and how long it took to get to the nights event. It was moving to hear a woman follow her dream despite the many obstacles and set backs she had faced. Goes to show how consistency, persistence and determination can help you attain your passion and goals

 

 

Thank you so much Latoya Hurley for giving me the opportunity to see the collection first hand. As always thank you guys for taking a read be sure to check out the vanity J collection ( links bellow) 

Xo Lulu

Vanity J

Latoya Hurley