The Soulhaus?

“Emergence Into The Limelight: The Rise Of Fashion In Africa” by Gheya Boulware A thought-provoking piece on the evolution of fashion in Africa, which has been marked by significant strides. Here we explore the advancements, challenges faced and the hopeful solutions shaping the continent’s fashion narrative. Renowned South African luxury designers such as Thebe Magugu consistently raise the bar in the world of couture and ready-to-wear. The innovative designs, meticulous craftsmanship, and unique perspectives continually push the boundaries of fashion, captivating audiences worldwide. Yet … there are still questions like, “What measures will be taken to provide strong support systems for emerging designers in the region?” and “Will ‘made in Africa’ perpetuate stereotypes of inferior quality or demonstrate the continent’s strength for producing high-quality clothing and accessories?” The fashion industry continuously seeks answers, but one thing is for certain - today’s African designers are tapping into cultural elements while working earnestly to maintain the continent’s legacy and heritage. They are skillfully bridging the gap between traditional design techniques and cutting-edge innovations while creating both high-end and mass-produced products. Swing by The Soulhaus to delve into more on the advancements made, barriers encountered, and potential solutions for supporting the rise of fashion in Africa. https://lnkd.in/eVZ-keAu

"Hope deferred makes the heart sick, But?when?the desire comes,?it is?a tree of life." --Proverbs 13:12 NKJV On April 17, 2024, Tiffany Harrison reached out to me and offered to introduce me to one of her colleagues in the fashion and lifestyle sphere, Jocelyn McCall. Mind you, this was the same day I got offers from RJ Communications and Miller Integrated Marketing, so in the spirit of divine alignment, I said yes! The next day, Tiffany e-introduced me to Jocelyn, and that night we got to talking. Long story short, I am now a Contributor at The Soulhaus?! For years, I've dreamed of one day being able to be paid to write about things I truly care about, and in this first piece, I got to talk about fashion--specifically, the style influencer who've inspired me this summer. As both and aesthete and plus size girlie, you have no idea how creating this piece nourished my soul. So thank you, Tiffany. Thank you, Jocelyn. And thank you, Lord, for divine appointments. https://lnkd.in/gWhEizkH #hired #fashion #style #plussizefashion #editorial #fashionwriter #writer #contentcreator #praiseHim

As an editor at The Soulhaus? , I am appreciative of the opportunity to be writing about and sharing my favorite products and brands leading the creative renaissance across the Caribbean. Metal x Wire rejects fleeting trends to opt into modular elements and interchangeable pieces, intentionally crafted to be reinvented as jewelry mirrors your evolving self. Founded in 2021, with sustainability woven into their very fabric, the brand utilizes responsibly sourced gemstones and recycled gold to create made-to-order pieces that minimize waste. Born in Jamaica, METALXWIRE’s Founder and Creative Director?Symoné Currie?was recognized by Lorraine Schwartz and the Natural Diamond Council as one of six emerging designers. Earlier this year, Symoné and I collaborated on a digital Valentine’s Day campaign inspired by self-love and starring Shannon Chen See, poet, visual artist and model from Kingston, #Jamaica. Read more: https://lnkd.in/g2TixFiB

Social media is buzzing with reactions to?Hulu's new book-to-series adaptation of?the?hotly debated best-selling novel, “Queenie”. The development team at Hulu continues to bring Caribbean diaspora stories (see Black Cake) to the forefront, fostering deep nostalgia and cultural representation amongst immigrant and first-generation diaspora members in the United States. via Marie Claire #streamingtelevision #hulu #diaspora #series https://lnkd.in/g2AxxEX6

Whether you’re headed to a rooftop networking event or taking some well-deserved time off to vacation, this summer handbag edit curated by Gheya Boulware features artful carriers by Black designers that will ensure that you never leave the house without a touch of allure. Shop Here: https://lnkd.in/eJVAdifV

On an island filled with boldly branded, sugary soda and snack advertisements made elsewhere, the best refreshers are actually brand’less and plucked from a tree found in your yard (or your neighbors ??) As a continuation to their sun-kissed creative synergy, JUICE, a photo editorial, was co-creative directed Marleisse Stephens and Belinda Downie. Read and see more on The Soulhaus? https://lnkd.in/gEBctj6d Photography: Marleisse S. Art Director: Bel Downie Model: Jeff Crossley Location: Wickie Wackie Beach Bar

Many of you are aware of my deep-rooted passion for African and Afro-Diasporic fashion. At this point, I live and breathe the industry, aha. So when Gheya Boulware invited me to contribute to The Soulhaus? article sharing my perspectives and experience as a fashion consultant/podcast host at STYLED BY NIF and African and Afro-Diasporic researcher at the Council for International African Fashion Education, I was thrilled to share the incredible work we've been engaged in and the emerging trends we've been pioneering. This article encapsulates diverse perspectives, ranging from the evolution of fashion education and infrastructure in Africa to discussions on luxury fashion and the profound impact of African fashion in the Western world. As the fashion scene in Africa and its Diasporas continues its upward trajectory, there's a palpable curiosity about its enduring stability, both regionally and globally. In every conversation I join centred on the continent, individuals consistently express their dreams and aspirations, with many already taking deliberate action to establish a lasting presence for African fashion worldwide. I am constantly inspired and taking notes to greatly position myself and my local fashion community in Canada to be partners in this movement. From discussions surrounding investments and the development of programs to support emerging and established designers in the region as well as its diasporas, to the burgeoning age of media as a tool for change, we are witnessing an exciting era unfold—one that promises to shape the future of African fashion on a profound scale. Our time is now! ?? Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/gWF8y7Ge #fashion #africanfashion #fashioneducation #luxaryfashion #fashiontrends #ambitiontoaction #longlasting #unity #changemakers