African American Fashion Trends of 2018: A Look Back at Defining Styles
2018 was a significant year for fashion, with African American creatives and influencers at the forefront of many defining trends. From the runways of New York Fashion Week to the streets of Harlem and beyond, African American fashion in 2018 was a vibrant tapestry of cultural pride, self-expression, and bold aesthetics. This article revisits some of the most impactful trends that captured the essence of African American style during that year.
The Rise of Afrofuturism
2018 saw Afrofuturism take center stage, influencing not just fashion but also music, film, and art. This cultural movement, which reimagines a future informed by African diaspora experiences and aesthetics, found expression in bold metallics, geometric patterns, and futuristic silhouettes.
The Enduring Power of the Headwrap
Headwraps have always been an integral part of African culture, representing heritage, spirituality, and style. In 2018, they transcended their traditional context to become a mainstream fashion statement. Celebrities and influencers alike embraced the versatility of headwraps, sporting them in a myriad of colors, fabrics, and styles.
African Braids 2018: A Celebration of Versatility and Heritage
Braiding, a centuries-old tradition deeply rooted in African culture, continued to evolve into intricate and expressive hairstyles in 2018. From Fulani braids adorned with beads to elaborate cornrow designs, African American braid styles celebrated heritage while pushing creative boundaries. These styles transcended mere aesthetics, serving as a powerful statement of identity and self-love.
Athleisure Meets African Prints: A Winning Combination
2018 witnessed the fusion of comfort and culture as athleisure embraced the vibrancy of African prints. Sneakers paired with Ankara print joggers, dashikis reimagined as bomber jackets, and headwraps incorporated into workout attire showcased the versatility of African fashion.
A Return to Natural Hair Textures
The natural hair movement, gaining momentum in recent years, reached new heights in 2018. African American women embraced their natural hair textures – from tight coils to loose waves – challenging conventional beauty standards and celebrating individuality. This shift towards self-acceptance extended beyond hairstyles, influencing the beauty industry as a whole.
“2018 was a pivotal year for the natural hair movement,” says Maya Johnson, a natural hair stylist and advocate based in Atlanta. “It wasn’t just about embracing your natural texture but also about challenging the notion that there’s only one way to be beautiful.”
African American Fashion Trends 2018: A Legacy of Impact
The fashion trends embraced by the African American community in 2018 extended beyond aesthetics, reflecting a cultural shift towards self-love, heritage appreciation, and unapologetic expression. This fusion of style and substance continues to shape the fashion landscape, inspiring a new generation of designers, influencers, and individuals to embrace their cultural identity with pride.
If you’re looking to recreate some of these iconic looks or simply draw inspiration, platforms like African American Fashion 2018 offer a glimpse into the creativity and diversity that defined the year’s style.
