My previous post about the cultural shock show has an evident cultural theme, going back to my own African roots, I decided to feature a fashion designer that I stumbled across some time last year named Maya Lake, she is the designer of a fashion line, BoxingKitty! The line holds a vintage inspiration full of colour and a vibrant theme. In her collections she has brought together her p a s s i o n in capturing women of today with the passion she holds of what could be described as a representation of a woman in today's world.
Boxing Kitty pieces have been worn by celebrities such as Rihanna, Beyonce, Eryka Badu and especially by Salonge Knowles who seems to be a big fan of her Maya Lake pieces. It also plays a big part in the wardrobe of Beyonce and Alicia Keys in 'Put it in a Love Song' music video.
When I first saw this collection it just brought it all home for me, the beautiful African waxed materials are those of which my mum would wear EVERYDAY in the house while she would fry that good, tasty Saturday dinner, and relax in the living room watching weekend television!!! It just brought it all home. Seeing these gorgeous prints and patterns brought forward to catwalk shows, music videos and everyday appearances by celebrities was some what inspiring. It is so invigorating to see it embraced in today's fashion shows and collections by well known designers such as Marc Jacobs and Givenchy. Gwen Stefani has also used African inspiration in her own fashion line L.A.M.B, a few pieces are featured in her Spring 2011 collection.
Some more pieces from Maya Lake's collections, I spotted a familiar face..any guesess??... Naima from Americas next top model not sure what cycle but she is working this look very nicely.
Solonge and Beyonce here wearing Maya Lake pieces both in their own individual way, Salonge looks lovely, naturally wearing this vibrant dress. Of course Beyonce brought it sexy, mini shorts exagerrating those die for curves, imbracing that African heritance indeed. LOVE IT!
Being a sucker for playsuits i fell in love with this little number Fergie ( from the Black eyed Peas) was pictured wearing. The Safari feel actually works really well with her, she made it a nice casual look, hair slick back and some dark stunners, once again .. LOVE IT!
Shoot of Beyonce and Alicia Keys 'Put it in A Love Song'
ISSEY Miyake, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Givency, Eley Kish, Moto, Suno
Gwen Stefani Lamb
Many people are unaware of the wonderful, unique, head turning outfits that are worn traditionally to events such as African Independence Day's, Christenings and birthdays all in the heart of this very London, day in day out, everyone would be amazed at what the African fashion culture holds.
I feel very PROUD to have the culture I do, although hardly recognized and seen it is absolutely beautiful. It is slowly and surely coming forward for the rest of the world to see. One day i hope to bring the passion i have for both, fashion and my culture, together and show what I yearn to express through designs and photography. Watch this space ;)
