Fashion Staples In Africa: 2013

 

Poodles in purses are so ten years ago. 2013 has had its fair share of fads, but this year has proven that certain trends are timeless.

With vintage, emo, retro, and any other Fashion-bubble you may have found yourself in, there are items and trends that have navigated their way through each subculture.
No matter how you decide to pull it off, in pitch black or floral... the staples of 2013 are...

 

Denim

Any type of denim will do. And it doesn’t matter which item it is, denim has long been more than just pants and jackets. Denim shirts, shoes, and even beanies are trending all over Africa. The most popular variation is stonewashed. And don’t be kind to you denim! Rips, tears and scratches are no longer reasons to throw them away. Turns out, the more worn out the jeans, the more it will cost you.

 

Metallic

The goths (Yes they’re still around, they're just called emo now) are doing it. So is the business-chic bunch. Men and women have been spotted all over the continent in shiny and sometimes very "Loud" metallic garments. Shirts and leggings are the most common, paired with very flat colours, pertaining to the rest of the outfit.

 

Micromini/microshorts

In the 1950's, the only place one could see the micromini was in science fiction flicks. Now, everywhere you turn, women are sporting the thigh high creations. They are so popular, in fact, that the microshorts was created as a spin off, all the bare, none of the flare. These are popular in denim, but in recent months, patterns, floral and leopard skin have made a comeback.

 

And do not think for a second that men have not been sucked into a similar fashion vortex. Men's shorts are getting shorter. Summer 2013 is set to be a skin fest of note. With micro-bottoms and crop tops, the weight loss challenge is about to reinstate itself.

 

Leggings

Just like the many other items (including fingernails) that have fallen prey to the fad, leggings have become a popular staple worldwide, with the recent development of patterns and pictures collaged all over them. The most trending among teenagers and on social networks like Facebook and Instagram, are leggings adorned with crosses, Christmas print and of course, leopard print.

 

And the biggest fashion staple of 2013, you ask?

 

Smart phones

Whether you prefer Apple, Samsung or Blackberry, these phones are no longer just technology, they are fashion trends, each throwing you into a category of just what type of fashionista you are. Blackberrys are the craze among teens, while the older generation are styling the tablet shaped variety. And don't forget the phone covers, which come in an assortment of colours and prints, to match your everyday outfit needs. Let's be honest, without your smartphone and constant connection to update your social media social life by uploading pictures of your stylish outfit with your stylish phone to your stylish friends... Who are you?