Hello beautiful people,
I’m back with a new spring-ready fashion post for you. This time, the Origins Tote by Brooklyn-based and African-made brand, What Is Your Accent (WIYA), is the star of the show!
WIYA is a platform designed to connect consumers to culture, fashion and artisans in the African Diaspora. In fact, all their designs are made in Africa and sold in the United States. Naana Badu, who I’ve had the pleasure of meeting and working with created WIYA to bring her unique sense of style to the market. It is an expression of traditional African culture but in a modern context. As you will see below, I purposefully styled the look with contemporary pieces to demonstrate the openness to diversity of the brand.
THE CONSCIOUS: empowerment, self-expression and celebration.
WIYA’s mission is to showcase the beauty of African culture and bridge the gap between African artisans and the American market. The materials they use come from the Bolgatanga region in Northern Ghana and Accra Ghana where WIYA’s production is centralized. In addition, WIYA’s latest wax print clutches collection was crafted in partnership with two small businesses in Accra Ghana. By combining their expertise, Naana Badu, Nana Opoku, Sulley Adokor brought a fun, colorful and rich collection to life.
This is what you can expect from WIYA: carefully crafted pieces with a modern flair and respect for cultural traditions.
THE CHIC: African-made fashion rich in color, style and culture.
WIYA carries jewelry, small accessories and a variety of handbags including the Origins Tote featured in this look. I like how unexpected this piece is. It has a certain “Je ne sais quoi”, wouldn’t you say? I am not privy to the meaning of the female likeness showcased on the tote but I suspect it represents Mother Africa as a source of inspiration, creativity and strength. Don’t quote me on that, though!
By sourcing their prime materials and developing products in close proximity with the artisans and apprentices who make them, WIYA is transcending fashion in its mass-manufactured traditional sense. Building relationships, creating synergy and prioritizing self-actualization are at the center of what WIYA brings to the world of fashion. I am here for it!
For this look, I paired the funky yet functional tote with ripped tie dye jeans, an Anna Sui chunky sweater and a mustard yellow tank top. I accessorized the city-chic ensemble with light nude heels, ombre sunglasses and a silver bar ring. It is a great outfit for those days when I need to transition from office meetings to lunch with the girls. Truth be told, versatile looks are my favorite. This one holds a special place in my heart because I know that it is empowering artisans and creating sustainable business opportunities in Africa.
If you like this look, you’ll love the second one I have for you. Yes, I created two looks featuring the Origins Tote. Stay tuned for the other one coming out next month. Until then, let me know how you would style this unique bag for spring on social media Instagram / Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest.
Photo credit: Dara Freeman.
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