REDEFINING AFRICAN FASHION AND CULTURE IN SOUTH FLORIDA AND BEYOND

BY EVELYN ONYEJURUWA

 

Ankara Miami, a beacon of cultural fusion and expression, stands at the forefront of promoting African fashion and culture in South Florida. Since its inception in 2011 by Evelyn Onyejuruwa, former Miss Nigeria Florida, the trendsetting brand fervently championed the inclusion of African fashion and culture in the local market and mainstream media.

With a vision to celebrate the richness and progression of African culture, Ankara Miami embarked on a mission to showcase the diversity and vibrancy of African prints and fabric through wide-spread promotion and a variety of special events, including pop-up shops and high-end fashion productions such as Ankara Miami Fashion Week and Ankara SWIM. With Miami as its vibrant backdrop, Ankara Miami became a vital conduit, connecting the diaspora to its roots and introducing the wider audience to the diversity of African fashion.

At the heart of Ankara Miami’s pop-ups and fashion productions are its designers, whose talent and creativity breathe life into each garment or hand-crafted accessory. Through meticulous attention to detail and a deep reverence for tradition, these designers infuse contemporary flair into age-old techniques, crafting pieces that resonate with elegance and authenticity.

One such designer is JZO, a Nigerian-based brand whose creative approach to African fashion has garnered acclaim on both sides of the Atlantic. Drawing inspiration from the rich tapestry of African heritage, JZO creates unique garments that serve as a testament to the enduring allure of African aesthetics, captivating audiences with their innovative appeal.

Another shining example is Jean Decort, whose journey from the bustling streets of Panama to the Ankara Miami Fashion Week stage exemplifies the company’s commitment to amplifying talent rooted in African culture – no matter the physical location. With an affinity for bold colors and hand-painted graphic designs, Jean Decort seamlessly blends cultural motifs with modern silhouettes, offering a fun and purposeful narrative that transcends borders.

Since its inception, Ankara Miami has not only provided a platform for the exquisite craftsmanship of African designers but has also fostered collaborations and partnerships with local municipalities & nationally recognized brands such as Macy’s and Black Enterprise. Additionally, through initiatives such as Ankara Delights Pop-Up Shop – a quarterly retail shopping event aimed at showcasing and encouraging emerging talent, South Florida-based consumers are also able to easily shop authentic hand-crafted fashion and goods direct from the continent.

As Ankara Miami continues to redefine the narrative surrounding African fashion and culture in South Florida and beyond, its impact extends far beyond the realm of style. By celebrating Africa’s rich cultural heritage and fostering cross-cultural exchange, Ankara Miami serves as a bridge, uniting communities and creating a deeper appreciation for the diversity that enriches our world.