African attire has always been one to be uniquely divined among many cultures, but it seems within these last two years the clothing made an epidemic boom; especially with young adults in college, particularly HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities). These young adults wear African clothing as fashion as an expression of culture dignity. Clothing such as dashikis, beaded skirts, headdresses, wrapping clothing, agbada, boubou (for men), and m’boubou (for women) are the most common attire to see one wearing in the United States.
Daily, many African Americans are purchasing dashikis and it is the ultimate trend of the year, however it is the fabric that makes these clothing authentic. The woven cotton or silk Kente cloth, mudcloth, tufted Kuba cloth of Democratic Republic of the Congo is what makes these fashionable items come to life. It is beyond the bright colors, distinctive patterns, and hand made craft that makes African clothing eccentric. Although, many people may not be familiar with the fabric used in these clothing or even care, it is important to know the significance of these clothing before wearing them; that is where a lot of cultural appropriation is distinguished.
There are mixed feelings with one wearing African fashion, rather one is black or some other nationality. Yes, this is a trend, but many natives of Africa take offense of indulging in their fashion only because it is a trend. As Zipporah Gene wrote in her essay, titled Black America, please stop appropriating African clothing and tribal marks, “African Americans take a cultural dress, mark or traits, with all its religious and historical connation, dilute it, and bring it out for occasions when you want to look trendy”.
I can sense Gene’s emotion on only seeing African culture being represented due to it being a trend, however the statement is too focused on African Americans being those who are being bashed for taking pride in becoming closer to culture that was once ours before it was ripped away from us. There should not be a problem with seeing African Americans wearing African attire, because it has been a rough journey for blacks since forever and seeing more of black people wear clothes such as Dashikis is because of a sense of respect and actually becoming one in African culture; that is what our decedents would want us to do no matter if it is for fashion or just honorability.
Granted, it pays to know the history of a cultural attire before wearing it, but there are many “black” traditional wears that other nationalities wear without being criticized; such as Adidas high top shoes that matches with the jogging suit. Nevertheless, there are whites and Asians who enjoy wearing black Americans fashionable outfits. It is not about only wearing a certain top or shoe because it is the “it” look, but it is the fact paying respect for something that is different, edgy, and most importantly cultivating. I do not see a problem in those wanting to wear African clothing for fashion as long as one take the time out to understand what the item means and why it is significant to wear. As long as we, black Americans are connecting to our culture and identity that is what matter. If connecting in such a way involves wearing fashion items plays a pivotal role so be it.
Pure Existence 