Threads of Influence: A Series on Black Tailoring
A seven-part Guzangs series on Black tailoring, written into and around the 2025 Met Gala’s “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style.” The Costume Institute’s 2025 theme made Black dandyism the subject of the year’s most-watched fashion event. Threads of Influence spent four weeks reporting around it, beginning with pre-colonial African menswear and ending on the Met steps. […]
Vibrate Film Lab: Ghana’s New Haven for Analog Photography Unveiled by Surf Ghana Collective
In the 1950s, Ghana’s film photography scene burst to life, driven by pioneers like James Barnor and Felicia Abban. From Barnor’s Ever Young Studio to Abban’s trailblazing work as Ghana’s first professional female photographer, they captured a nation stepping into independence with analog cameras and darkroom magic. But as decades passed, digital technology, economic shifts, […]
Beyond the Rack: Africa’s Concept Stores Changing the Game
Aby Concept Store. Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire Across Africa, a quiet revolution is unfolding—not just in the hum of sewing machines or the flash of runway lights, but in the intimate, electric spaces where fashion finds its heartbeat. Concept stores like Lagos’ Alára, a glass-walled masterpiece refracting the city’s energy into art, or Kigali’s House of […]
Frederica Brooksworth Launches AFDI to Fund and Educate Africa’s Next Fashion Leaders
African fashion has emerged as a vibrant and influential sector, showcasing the continent’s rich cultural heritage and creativity. However, despite the growing interest and investment in this industry, many emerging talents struggle to find the necessary support and funding to flourish. Unfortunately, some organizations and individuals exploit the situation, prioritizing profit over genuine assistance, […]
The Legacy of Shea Butter: A Ritual, A Remedy, A Revolution
“Shea butter is my go-to. It’s nature’s ultimate moisturizer—pure, simple, and effective.” — Lupita Nyong’o In the ever-expanding world of beauty and self-care, few ingredients have the legacy and sheer efficacy of shea butter. Extracted from the nuts of the West African shea tree (Vitellaria paradoxa), this rich, buttery elixir has been the cornerstone of […]
Detty December: Celebrating the Vibrant Cultures and Economic Ties of Lagos and Accra
Every December, the cities of Lagos and Accra in West Africa transform into epicenters of celebration, culture, and community. What has come to be known as “Detty December” is more than just a series of end-of-year parties; it’s a cultural phenomenon that has significant implications for both the economy and societal fabric of these vibrant […]
HerStory Unfolds: Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang’s Groundbreaking Vice Presidency
On January 7, 2025, Ghana made history, not just for its political transition but for a monumental shift in its cultural narrative. With the inauguration of H.E. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, Ph.D, FGA Vice President of the Republic of Ghana as the nation’s first female Vice President, Ghana stepped into a new era of leadership that […]
The Fabric of Leadership: Culture, Fashion at Mahama’s Inauguration
Accra, Ghana – January 7, 2025 – Moments ago, the historic inauguration of President-elect John Dramani Mahama concluded at Black Star Square, marking a new chapter in Ghana’s political narrative. What transpired was not just a change in leadership but a vibrant celebration of Ghanaian culture. “Today gives me the opportunity to reset our country […]