Fashion
British Vogue features Kel Vincent – Africa’s Style God
When Ghana-based stylist Kelvin Vincent discovered the #VogueChallenge, he pressed pause on posting a magazine cover.
The creative, who also runs a contemporary sustainable fashion brand called ANKV, is “not someone who likes to jump on trends,” he tells British Vogue. But, when he found out that editor-in-chief Edward Enninful was curating his favourite submissions, Vincent did a volte face. “It took me all night,” he says of placing the Vogue logo on his portrait of Grace Naa Ayorkor Quaye wearing a voluminous red dress by Yartel.
“I felt I wouldn’t stand a chance, because [at that time] there were about 50,000 #VogueChallenge posts. I did it anyway, and the rest is history.”
Vincent’s striking cover image is part of a wider fashion editorial, entitled The Fierce Muslim. Shot during Ramadan, Vincent “wanted to create fierce fashionable images that Muslim women can relate to,” he explains. “I wanted to tell them to stand firm on what they want, despite the racism, extremism, Islamophobia, and the popular stereotyping of Arab women as weak and voiceless.”
“I know women go through a lot of discrimination worldwide but I’ve actually seen it with my own eyes in Africa,” Vincent continues. “It hurts.” A staunch activist and feminist – “I always talk about unspoken cultural biases and norms every chance I get” – the creative director describes his #VogueChallenge entry as “a political move”. “I don’t know how I can change the world, but I know people enjoy creativity, so I’m going to change the mindset of people with creativity one day at a time.”
It took Vincent a week to curate the fashion for the editorial, and four days to shoot the project. Finding the right shade of red for the model’s dress was crucial because, Vincent explains, “red signifies anger and rage, courage and strength, passion and romance” – the myriad emotions he wanted to encapsulate in the pictures. The location, too, proved tricky. “We wanted to shoot at a mosque to capture the Muslim culture, but we were not allowed to for religious reasons,” shares Vincent. “I had to go back to the drawing board four times before we finally achieved what we wanted.” The energy of his collaborators – photographer Duke Tetteh-Quarshie and make-up artist Valerie Lawson – meant “magic” eventually happened on set.
Raising up fellow artists is central to Vincent’s work. “African creatives have really shown that we can own a piece of the pie, but we’re still looked at as one-dimensional,” he opines. “People are not exposed to many opportunities. I know how that feels. It feels like there’s no hope. So when I see a fellow creative doing the best they can and not being acknowledged, why would I not want to lift them up? When I rise, I don’t rise alone. It’s Africa I’m putting on the fashion map.”
pulse.com
Fashion
A Symbolic Islamic art form celebrating culture, beauty, and spirituality
In many Muslim communities across the world, celebrations are not complete without the graceful adornment of stylish art ‘Lele’.
Most commonly associated with detailed henna designs applied to the hands and feet, Lele represents more than decoration; it is a sacred expression of identity, beauty, and belief.
Traditionally, it is most prominently showcased during festive occasions such as Eid celebrations, weddings, and naming ceremonies, where women and girls alike embrace the tradition to mark moments of joy, transition, and spirituality.
While Lele is often admired for its visual appeal, its significance runs much deeper.
The designs are constructed around Islamic artistic principles, repetitive patterns, calligraphy, and geometric arrangements.
These motifs are not merely decorative; they are symbolic. Patterns may represent eternal life, divine wisdom, interconnectedness, and the infinite nature of Allah.
Some designs include verses from the Qur’an or scriptural allusions, transforming the wearer’s body into a living canvas of spiritual meaning.
Women who wear Lele do so with pride, not just as an enhancement of physical beauty, but as a reflection of their cultural roots and inner faith.
From mothers to young daughters, the practice is passed down like a treasured legacy.
Despite the growing popularity of modern body art, Lele retains its unique cultural importance. It is not just a beauty trend, but a continuing practice that speaks to generations of tradition.
By Georgina Boadiwaa Ntim
Fashion
Building your gym wardrobe: Essential workout clothes for men, women
A guide to creating a practical and stylish gym wardrobe, from basics to specialised pieces like compression wear, performance fabrics, and layering options.
In today’s fitness culture, gym outfits have evolved far beyond simple workout clothes. Dressing appropriately for the gym is not only about looking good—it’s about feeling confident, staying comfortable, and maximising performance.
Stylish and functional gym wear is now a top priority for many fitness lovers. This guide breaks down how both men and women can choose the best gym outfits to enhance their workout experience, combining comfort, safety, and style.
Proper gym wear supports your body, regulates temperature, and allows full movement, while also helping you feel good in your skin.
Some tips for selecting a gym outfit
-Stick to breathable, flexible materials; Choose fabrics like cotton blends, spandex, or polyester to stay cool and allow free movement.
– Supportive sports bras are a must: Look for racerback or compression bras that offer comfort and minimise movement for better focus.
– Choose the right tops: tank tops, crop tops, or fitted T-shirts that aren’t too tight or too loose give you freedom while showing off your form.
-Leggings, yoga pants, or shorts; these should fit well and allow a full range of motion. High- waisted leggings are particularly popular for their flattering fit and support.
Wearing the right gym outfit goes far beyond fashion—it’s about feeling your best while pushing your limits. The proper attire can motivate you, improve your performance, and help you stay safe during workouts.
For both men and women, selecting breathable, comfortable, and stylish gym wear is a step toward a healthier, more confident fitness journey.
By Georgina Boadiwaa Ntim
