Many fashionistas argue that the ’60s and ’70s were the golden eras of Nigerian fashion. This holds a lot of ground because if we look closely at some of the fashion trends we have today, we will notice that they can be traced to the independence era. 61 years later, most of these fashion styles have just been redefined to fit into contemporary culture.
Let’s take you through four of the fashion trends that existed during the independence era and are still trendy to date:
Maxi Skirts
Reportedly, the maxi skirt became popular during the second wave of the feminist wave in the 1960s as women used it to revolt against the miniskirt. It became mainstream by the 1970s. The skirt eventually made its way to Nigeria presumably with the Okrika clothing business which involved importing used clothes from Europe. Several years after Nigeria’s independence, the maxi skirt has made a comeback and is one of the top fashion trends for women. Seen originally as stuff reserved for mothers and older women, maxi skirts have been adopted into the classy wear range. Paired with sneakers, heels, or sandals, they are now worn for fancy occasions like weddings, church gatherings, office outings, parties. They come in different prints and sizes.
Maxi skirts may also be partnered with cashmere throws to create a fashionable look. These garments are beautiful, soft, and warm, and they can fit anyone’s personality and style. They’re not only cozy; they can make you look elegant and luxurious, too. They can be used as one of the must-have fashion accessories since they’re available in various colors and designs. They’ll complement whatever piece of clothing you’re wearing, like a maxi skirt.
Like other garments, cashmere throws should be taken care of to maintain their quality. In particular, you should carefully wash these fabrics to avoid damage. Since they’re soft, they’re susceptible to damage. If you’re doing it for the first time, check some reliable resources online to learn how to wash cashmere throws be it by hand or with a machine.
Eko Bridge hairstyle
Eko Bridge is a hairstyle made with rubber and a particular kind of thin thread. It was a popular hairstyle in the 60s and was named after the Eko Bridge because of its striking resemblance to the bridge.
This Nigerian hairstyle retro style made a strong comeback years ago and has remained to date.
Adire Wears
The Adire wear was in vogue during the pre-independence and independence era when people had to do different menial jobs to make money. The production was divided into three parts: two female specialists-dyers (aladire) who patterned the cloth by tying different parts to form a unique design using and soaking it in the tie-dye water and the (alaro) who controlled the production and marketing of the adire.
Now, Adire is made in more complicated designs for gowns and T-shirts that can be worn for both special occasions and casual outings.
Afro hairstyles
Afro styles reigned in Nigeria in the ’60s and ’70s which explains why they can be found in most of our parents’ photo albums. Although Afro has never really gone out of vogue, it has become more popular recently. Guys and even girls have taken a likeness to this beautiful natural hairstyle and are now rocking it as their everyday looks. Natural Afro wigs are also being made for people that love to adopt it as a temporal look.
There are other reasons Afro hairstyles are one of the beauty and fashion trends traced to the independence era. For one, afro hair can be considered the most versatile hairstyle worldwide. It can be styled in several ways, such as waves, twists, intricate braiding patterns, and curly hairstyles. Also, wearing a natural Afro hairstyle creates a vital connection to African culture. If you’re a woman with African roots, Afro-textured hair may give you a better sense of identity, symbolizing black pride.
