Animal motifs and traditional prints ruled the runway at LA's Fashion Week, as presented to us by new designer Kevan Hall in his "Africa- A Safari" collection.
The budding designer brought the rhythms, the grace, the sensual styles, and spicy colors from the various tribal nations scattered around Africa. He also incorporated traditional jewelry from the famed Masai tribe located in Kenya, adding an earthy warmness to the mix.
Implications - Other tribes that brought inspiration are Dinka and Zulu. Kevan Hall also drew from the wildlife in Africa such as antelopes and zebras. The collection consists of dashikis, gowns, jackets and vests that are all bright and uniquely patterned with the fabrics being made by artisans in Africa.
Safari Style
Kevan Hall Spring 2008 Collection
Trend Themes
1. Animal Motifs - Expanding use of animal motifs in fashion and design presents opportunities for innovative collaborations with wildlife conservation organizations and eco-friendly material suppliers.
2. Traditional Prints - Revival of traditional prints in fashion opens up opportunities for partnerships with textile artisans and cultural preservation initiatives.
3. Incorporation of Tribal Influences - Integration of tribal styles and jewelry in fashion collections creates potential for cross-cultural collaborations and sustainable sourcing practices.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion - Fashion industry can leverage the trend of safari style by creating sustainable, ethically sourced collections inspired by African tribes and wildlife.
2. Textile - Textile industry can benefit from the resurgence of traditional prints by collaborating with designers to create unique fabrics and patterns rooted in cultural heritage.
3. Conservation - Conservation organizations have the opportunity to collaborate with fashion designers to raise awareness about endangered wildlife through the use of animal motifs and sustainable materials.