Africa is a continent rich with diverse languages and other people groups. The clothing types of many African nations have a rich history going back hundreds of years. These days you can see African-People selecting to enhance their fashion and celebrate their heritage by donning these garments. The designs of the garments are one reflection of African culture, however the colors and symbols that decorate them are also important to understand.
African garments which might be made of the combined colors of red, gold and green represent the colours of the stripes of the ethiopian dress flag. Additionally, black, green and gold mixtures represent the colours of the African National Congress’ flag. Kente material is understood for its brilliant colours and designs and this cloth is steadily seen as a symbol of the African continent.
The Fulani ladies put on bright flowing robe-like garments and gold hoop earrings to mark their model and their region. In each region of Africa, the fashion and colors of garments are a reflection of whom you are and the place you might be from. For instance, in certain elements of Nigeria, red is seen as a threatening shade which can only be worn by chiefs. The color is believed to maintain evil away. In different regions, red is the color of achievement or success. Adinkra material is worn typically at funerals and farewells. Darkish colored adinkra cloth in brick red, brown or black symbolizes death. Alternately, brilliant colored adinkra fabric in white, yellow or blue is worn for festive or joyful occasions. Adinkra fabric continues to be very talked-about in Ghana today.
Kente cloth made by the Fante of Ghana has many different designs and colors with varied meanings. Red is the image of bloodshed and is often worn for political conferences and rallies. Green represents fertility and you’ll see it worn often during a young woman’s adolescence. White symbolizes purity or victory. Yellow represents maturity or glory and chiefs often put on this color. Blue symbolizes love, and black represents aging.
Figuring out the symbolic meanings of color and design in African clothing helps one to have a greater sense of the culture and the rich history of the African types that one can find today. Whatever your ethnic heritage could also be, you’ll find an African type that displays your identity and your good taste too. There are quite a lot of decisions, however the selection and the quality are there for you, so enjoy.