Fashion
Afro: A Crown of History and Pride
In the bustling streets of Accra, braided crowns, coiled Afros, and beaded locks are more than fashion statements. They are living testaments to heritage, resilience, and identity.
The Afro, which rose to prominence in the 1960s and 70s, was more than a hairstyle. It became a symbol of defiance against Eurocentric beauty standards and a proud declaration of Black identity.
But the story of African hair stretches back centuries. Ancient carvings from Egypt depict intricate braids and cornrows, styles that carried messages of social status, age, and even spirituality. Across West Africa, beads and cowrie shells were woven into hair, turning each head into a canvas of culture and artistry.
“Hair was never just hair,” says cultural historian Ama Ofori. “It was a language, a way of telling the world who you were and where you came from.”
Colonial rule attempted to suppress these traditions, branding natural hair as ‘unruly.’ Yet, generations later, the revival of the Afro and traditional styles has reclaimed that narrative. Today, braids, twists, and Afros are celebrated on runways, in music videos, and on city streets worldwide.
For many young Africans, embracing natural hair is both a fashion choice and a way of honouring ancestors while shaping modern identity. “When I wear my Afro,” says student and stylist Efua Mensah, “I feel connected to history. It’s not just style, it’s strength.”
As the global fashion industry increasingly embraces African-inspired looks, the Afro reminds us that beauty is not only about trends. It is about heritage, pride, and the stories carried in every strand.
By Beatrice Wornovi
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Skirts are a wardrobe essential for many women, offering a variety of styles for different occasions.
Interestingly, not every woman is familiar with different types of skirts available and how best to style them.
The Spectator takes a look at the different types of skirts every woman should know about.
Mini skirt: Short length above knee.
Maxi skirt: Long length reaches the knee.
Tierd skirt: Layers of fabric for a flowy look
Mermaid skirt: Fitted through the hips, flaring the bottom.
Trumpet skirt: Slight flare from mid-thigh to hem.
Circle skirt: Full and flared with a circular shape.
Bubble skirt: Gathered hem creates a full, rounded shape.
Wrap skirt: Wraps around the waist and ties
Staker skirt: Short and flared playful style
Pencil skirt: Slim fit, straight shape
Pleated skirt: Features even folds or pleats.
Tullip skirt: Overlapping from panels create a tulip shape.
Asymmetrical skirt: Uneven hemline for a modern look.
Godet skirt: Inset panels add extra flare.
A-Line skirt: Fitted at the waist gradually flares out.
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By Linda Abrefi Wadie
VINTAGE dresses are making a strong comeback in the fashion world as more women embrace timeless designs that combine elegance and a touch of jewellery.
Once regarded as old-fashioned, vintage dresses are now becoming fashionable choices for women who want to stand out from the crowd.
Fashion enthusiasts are particularly drawn to vintage pieces because of their uniqueness. Unlike mass-produced outfits that are often seen everywhere, vintage dresses offer wearers the opportunity to create a distinctive look while expressing their personality.
Vintage dresses are also versatile; they can be worn to weddings, parties, church services, social gatherings or even casual outings, depending on how they are styled. Pairing them with modern shoes, a handbag or simple jewellery can give the outfit a fresh and contemporary appearance.
Vintage fashion therefore proves that style does not always have to mean following the latest trend. Sometimes, the most fashionable statement is found in the beauty of the past.
