Connect with us

Fashion

Why Ghanaian-American Jeffrey Ampratwum is the menswear expert to watch in fashion!

Published

on

Jeffrey featured image

At the start of the Victoria era, early 19th century – the English began to tone down the royal style dressing of the French army, namely those adorned in prestigious regalia and heavy embroidery. It was a sign of English nationalism and sparked a new wave of appearance in men. A few decades later, the suit was born and heavily influenced those in Italy and America. The British and the Americans have a rich revolutionary history, of course, and coincidentally the British colonized the African country – Gold Coast – until 1957 when they declared their independence and changed their name to Ghana. 

 

As part of an independent Ghana, a host of individuals began to exercise new freedoms and venture out of the country into new territories. Many Ghanaians set their eyes on American travel and a wave of trail blazers left the country and settled in the infamous New York City. For most, it was an opportunity to plant new seeds in the hopes that their children would be afforded even more opportunities for a prosperous life.

 

One of these children of the diaspora is Bronx-born Jeffrey Ampratwum. The only child to Kate Bampoe and Eugene Asante-Ampratwum Mpere, who met in the Bronx after immigrating from Ghana. The dynamics of having African parents and being raised in a heavily eclectic environment gave rise to Jeffreys style and prose. More importantly, we can honestly say that there are only a handful of Ghanaian-Americans living in the states that can exhibit a special presentation that reflects both their African heritage married with the esthetic of their nationality. We recently caught up with Jeffrey to discuss how his early influences provided him with a framework to now become such a strong force in the menswear industry in fashion.

 

Jeffrey. 

AD: Jeffrey, Ɛte sɛn?

 

Jeff: Haha, Eye.

 

AD: I had to test your Twi really quick! You know most Ghanaians who are born in the states dont have a clue about the language unless its spoken fiercely in the home.

 

Jeff: You are 100% correct with that. Ha. But for me, I was lucky in that my mother took me to Ghana before I even knew how to use words. So, in actuality, Twi was the first language and vocabulary I learned, and in essence, English is my second language. So, Im really decent when it comes to using Twi. Im a cheat code! But keep that quiet. Ha.

  

AD: How much of the remnants of the Ghanaian culture factored into your approach to your style and presentation?

 

Jeff: When I was younger and in school, particularly in the Bronx – it wasnt always your proudest moment to be from Africa or to say your family was African. Part of the silly embarrassment was perhaps from the narratives that were spinning on television. Americans were being indoctrinated with visuals of feed the children” which only highlighted the extreme poverty in a few Africans countries. The images and broadcasts were all the same, for decades. So called philanthropist and humanitarians took camera crews into ravaged areas and televised starving children for us to see here in the states. I believe that had a profound effect on young boys and girls born from African parents.

Jeffrey

However, as for me – I always looked at being dark skinned and being deeply rooted into my African culture as a super power. I liked the idea of being different, even though all the kids in all my classes were also children of immigrants. They just couldnt grasp the concept of it at that time. So, from there, it was showtime. My Uncle, Joseph Ken Mintah – was the pioneer as the first in the family to travel to the states – he had extreme style. My mother also is very detailed with her sense of jewelry and fragrances. I adsorbed it all. 

 

AD: Did you start dressing in traditional African attire? What do you mean exactly?

 

Jeff: Not exactly! But, being an only child really allowed for me to sit deep in thought for long periods of time. Being left-handed allowed for me to be extremely dexterous and detailed. And being raised solely by my mother further allowed me to pay attention to the importance of clothing and accessories – as she dressed herself each morning. It was the ultimate cocktail and I was already drunk with creativity. I started customizing all the clothes I had. By no means were we wealthy, so I had to manage just a few outfits for school.

 

My styling began when I would turn 5 outfits into 15 – so essentially, a 5-day school week became New York Fashion Week for me. I would airbrush my sneakers, turn Old Navy sweaters inside out for a fleece appeal, and cuff my jeans in 4 different ways depending on my footwear. This soon became a bad habit and made me late for school many mornings.

 

AD: You see, if you are late to school in Ghana back then – you might as well have sat by the road to hide from both your mother and headmaster! What was college like for you then?

 

Jeff: Right! Ha. It grew legs during my undergrad. Now all the pretty girls were around, I had more freedom to come and go, and more importantly – I had a stage to showcase my style. I joined a student club in the SEEK Program, and soon became the President and started hosting a string of events based around fashion. 4 years and a bachelors degree later, there were 6 fashion shows and 3 beauty pageants under my belt. Huge successes. I started to doubt my real educational reason for attending college, which was to become a dentist. Fashion was dancing on one shoulder and dentistry on the other. But somehow, I figured out how to still involve the two. My best buddy, Kenny – whom I met at the college on the road to become dentists – made it through. So, I live vicariously through him. And now, coincidentally – together we’ve developed a brand – a service of bespoke mens luxury shoes and women’s handbags, and ready to wear womenswear shoes as well. Named, Kenjeffreys. It is serendipitous because all of the products are sourced and handcrafted in Haiti and infused with Ghanaian culture. As Kenny is from Haiti, we properly employ artisans within the community and focus heavily on our social impact.

Following undergrad, I then began at FIT as student, really just trying to test my styling hand – and to learn more about the industry. While there, I came across extremely talented and knowledgeable fashion professionals that have really guided me. Namely, Sadia Seymour and Joseph DeAcetis. Both wildly experienced, patient and embedded with a wealth of information. Respectfully in womenswear and menswear. You cannot beat that, and I am grateful for it.

 

AD: That is strangely unique and admirable. Talk to us about how all those experiences and inspirations give rise to the Jeffrey or Che we see today and ultimately, where that places you in your field of fashion and menswear.

 

Jeff: Sure. Great point. I have been indoctrinated by the basic principles of creativity as an adolescent – with respect to clothing. That is extremely hard to shake. Innately, styling was my ultimate form of communication, seeing that I was a shy introvert. So now, I still revert back to those same feelings…. the feeling of home, warmth, memories, great food and innocent fun. My approach now is exactly the same in the sense that when I am dressing, styling or designing for someone – I am taking into account their entire repertoire and holding a mirror in front of them which reflects the items that they love most. It is a skill that perhaps only empaths are only able to exhibit.

 

Having the ability to read into thoughts and connecting with the motivating spirits that drives people – is a gift. I ran the New York City marathon three times, and the 2nd time I ran it in a tuxedo! It was my ultimate homage and pledging of allegiance to fashion. Ha.

WhatsApp Image 2022 05 18 at 2.20.33 PM

I also believe my extensive traveling experience has aided to the arsenal. Recent trips to Ghana always resets a creative instinct with me, as I look around and arrive back to a place of self-awareness. It feels right. My cousin Harry knows where to be to capture the real essence of the land. And, coincidentally enough, I am often back and forth to the UK as well. Savile row in London, England -as you know – is a menswear connoisseurs Disney Land. It is the traditional hub for the world’s best tailored-bespoke suits. Naples and Florence are a close second. However, sartorially, the British have etched their names in the fine-art making of the suit. I do though spend most of my time in Brighton, UK. Its where my love is and also like a second home for me. The culture there is infused with various styles and the community is inviting. The Duchess of Brighton-Hove, Lady Donna and her amazing friends will assure that you have a great time! 

 

AB: Finally, talk to us about your styling approach with respect to specific talent that you work with.

 

Jeff: Definitely. This is perhaps an area you cannot teach. It is learned with years of experience and even reading the room wrong most times. I tell my fashion students often that they have to continue shooting airballs at the basket. Get out the miss shots, now – and properly learn your subjects. For example, if I am styling a celebrity for the red carpet – several nuances are to be considered before arriving at a dress or a tuxedo. Such as, what stages in life is your talent currently in, how body conscious are they and what are they most nostalgic about. These (and some of my other secrets that I cannot give away) are the pillars to nailing great style, image and presentation.

WhatsApp Image 2022 05 18 at 2.20.33 PM 1 

If I am shooting for a magazine in a studio – its party time. If you are not dancing as a model or grooving as a photographer, you are are in the wrong business, per say! Haha. With me, you are very liable to hear everyone from Bob Marley, James Brown, MJ, and Jay-Z to Queen, Lady Gaga, Biggie, Nas and Beyonce all on the same playlist. I say that to say: I enjoy what I do in fashion, and I will always represent the joys of that. I believe that is what makes me an enigma in this industry. Always professional however, but make it subjective and inject areas of your creativity wherever you can. Particularly in menswear – I keep a very intimate and close pulse on traditional, casual and street styles of these sub genres – and study them gravely like the science they are. That all still comes from sitting deep in thought as I did
Advertisement
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Fashion

Ghana And 5 Other African countries Showcase Rich Fashion and Culture At The First Africa Fashion week -Middle East Edition in Dubai

Published

on

IMG 20230319 WA0047

Talented designers from Africa were given the spotlight at this year’s Africa Fashion Week which was held at the DIFC’s Gate Village in Dubai.

The three-day free event captured the exhibition of culture, beauty, talent, elegance, and excellence while celebrating the grounded heritage of AFRICA.

Activities lined up this year included panel discussions on the topics of Innovation and Technology, Sustainability, and Industry Real Talk.

Patrons had the opportunity to partake in workshops and witness the runway show featuring breathtaking designs by some of the continent’s finest designers.IMG 20230319 WA0047

Collections from Ghana, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Senegal, and Congo were on display throughout the week.

Nana Serwaa

Nana Serwaa

Ghana’s Nana Serwaa of Caped Coast embraced the concept of eco-friendliness and showcased a collection that is sustainably focused. She released the future of fashion with a collection of capes, kaftans, and kimonos, made with authentic and sustainable prints produced in Ghana.IMG 20230319 WA0046

With the vision of “bridging traditional tailoring with modern fashion forward thinking” in mind, Kiza Bespoke from Nigeria appointed Creative Director Zak to express their new collection. The brand symbolized how Kiza bespoke breathes new life into modern tailoring while showcasing that the brand is a fashion presentation with understated refinement.

From Senegal, OMAAD paid homage to its rich African heritage through creative designs that were urban & chic with a modern look and comfortable feel. The Dubai-based fashion label crafted each capsule collection with the purpose and intention of exploring traditions and cultures while embracing the modern world.IMG 20230319 WA0037

Ntombi Couture collection from Zimbabwe displayed its full Zambezi Collection through Hues reminiscent of the Zambezi River and its tranquil sunsets, with a blend of light and structured fabrics and modern expression of African opulence in traditional African prints.

Displayed a mix of earthy tones and bold colors, taking center stage and dazzling patrons at this year’s African Fashion Week was Mantsho from South Africa. The vibrant brand known for its distinctive signature prints and carefully curated textiles echoed a collection that is based on confident African aesthetics with an international sensibility.

A unisex collection, named Yulu, which means UP in Swahili, was presented by Congolese-South African designer Urban Zulu.

Although the designer himself was not present the brand perfectly showcased its new collection to the world. The essence of the collection symbolized the notion of expressing Art as Fashion and Fashion as Art, displaying reimagined African prints in the most contemporary format.

IMG 20230319 WA0045 IMG 20230319 WA0044 IMG 20230319 WA0043 IMG 20230319 WA0042 IMG 20230319 WA0041 IMG 20230319 WA0040 IMG 20230319 WA0039 IMG 20230319 WA0038 IMG 20230319 WA0036

Continue Reading

Fashion

How can I find the perfect summer dress?

Published

on

Picture 1 12

Summer is around the corner and it’s time to start thinking about refreshing our wardrobe with the latest trends in summer dresses. Whether you’re looking for a casual sundress for a picnic or a fancy dress for a wedding, there are plenty of options available to choose from. In this article, we’ll give you some shopping suggestions for summer dresses, including where to find cheap dress wholesalers and the latest midi dresses for women.

Summer dresses are a staple in any woman’s wardrobe during the warmer months. They’re easy to wear, comfortable and stylish. When choosing a summer dress, it’s important to consider the occasion, your body shape, and your personal style. There are several types of summer dresses available such as maxi dresses, midi dresses, mini dresses, and more. Let’s take a look at some of the latest trends in summer dresses.

Midi dresses are a popular choice for women who want a dress that’s not too short or too long. Midi dresses typically fall just below the knee, which makes them versatile and appropriate for a variety of occasions. They can be dressed up or down, and they’re perfect for both casual and formal events. Some popular styles of midi dresses include wrap dresses, shirt dresses, and halter neck dresses. You can find midi dresses in a variety of colors and prints, including floral, stripes, and polka dots.

If you’re looking for a cheap dress wholesaler, there are plenty of options available online. Wholesale clothing suppliers offer a wide range of summer dresses at discounted prices. These dresses are often made from lightweight fabrics such as cotton, linen, and rayon, which are perfect for hot summer days. When shopping for cheap summer dresses, it’s important to consider the quality of the fabric and the fit of the dress. You don’t want to end up with a dress that falls apart after one wash or doesn’t fit properly.

When shopping for summer dresses, it’s important to consider your body shape. Different styles of dresses flatter different body types. For example, if you have an hourglass figure, you may want to choose a dress that cinches at the waist to accentuate your curves. If you have a pear-shaped figure, you may want to choose a dress that flares out at the hips to balance out your silhouette. There are several online guides available that can help you choose the best dress for your body shape.

When it comes to colors and prints, summer dresses are all about bright colors and bold prints. Floral prints are always popular during the summer months, and they’re perfect for adding a touch of femininity to your wardrobe. Stripes are also a popular choice for summer dresses, and they’re perfect for creating a nautical look. If you’re feeling daring, you may want to try a bold print such as animal print or geometric print.

In conclusion, summer dresses are a must-have for any woman’s wardrobe during the warmer months. Whether you prefer maxi dresses, midi dresses, or mini dresses, there are plenty of options available to choose from. When shopping for summer dresses, it’s important to consider the occasion, your body shape, and your personal style. If you’re looking for a cheap dress wholesaler, there are plenty of options available online. Just make sure to choose a reputable supplier and consider the quality of the fabric and the fit of the dress. With these shopping suggestions, you’re sure to find the perfect summer dress for any occasion.

Continue Reading

People & Lifestyle

Scent of Africa Celebrates the First Anniversary of the Eternal Legends Collection

Published

on

IMG 4491 scaled

Scent of Africa, the fine fragrance house created by Ghandour Cosmetics Ltd., celebrated its anniversary of launching the exclusive Eternal Legends Collection inspired by legends in African mythology. (more…)

Continue Reading

Fashion

Hairsalonguider, all about you, need to know

Published

on

Hairsalonguider, all about you, need to know

The hair and fashion industry is ever-evolving, with new trends and styles emerging yearly. This industry generates over $46 billion in revenue annually in the United States alone. In this dynamic and competitive industry, accessing reliable information about hair salons and their services is crucial for customers. With that said, Hair Salon Guider is a website dedicated to providing comprehensive information about hair salons across the United States.

The website covers each state’s top 10 hair salons, focusing on customer reviews and ratings to determine the best options. It provides detailed information about each salon, including its history, address, pricing, timing, contact information, amenities, email, and a brief description of its services. Users can easily navigate the site as it is well-organized, with clear headings and subheadings for each state and city.

Hair Saloon Guider Rating and Reviews:

One of the strengths of Hairsalonguider.com is its focus on customer reviews and ratings. This feature helps ensure that the information is reliable and up-to-date. It also allows customers to make informed decisions when selecting a salon. The website’s user-friendly interface makes it easy for customers to browse various options and read reviews of each salon before making their choice. The website’s design is also clean and visually appealing, with a simple layout makes it easy to find the information you’re looking for. High-quality images are used throughout the site to make it more engaging and visually appealing. The website is also optimized for mobile devices, making it easy to use.

Content Strategy:

Additionally, the website’s detailed information about each salon gives readers a good sense of what to expect from each establishment. Customers can compare pricing, location, and services offered at each salon before deciding. This feature is helpful for customers who are new to an area or looking to switch salons. In summary, Hairsalonguider.com is a valuable resource for anyone looking for information about hair salons in the United States. The website’s focus on customer reviews and ratings ensures reliable and up-to-date information. 

The detailed information about each salon makes comparing options and making informed decisions easy. The website’s clean design and user-friendly interface also make it a pleasure. Moreover, the website is an excellent tool for hair salon owners looking to increase their online presence. With Hairsalonguider.com, salon owners can leverage customer reviews and ratings to improve their business. Positive reviews can attract new customers and increase overall revenue for the salon.

Provide Best Services:

Another benefit of Hairsalonguider.com is that it helps promote competition among salons. Salons are incentivized to provide excellent service and maintain a high rating on the website. This competition ultimately benefits customers by ensuring they receive high-quality services from salons. In addition, Hairsalonguider.com provides a platform for customers to share their experiences and give feedback to salon owners. This feedback can help salons improve their services and customer satisfaction.

Salons can also use this feedback to identify areas for improvement and make necessary changes to enhance the customer experience. Finally, the website’s emphasis on customer reviews and ratings can help build customer trust and credibility. With so many salons to choose from, customers are more likely to trust a salon with positive thoughts and a high rating on the website. This trust and credibility can increase customer loyalty and repeat business for the salon.

Final Words:

Hairsalonguider.com is a valuable resource for customers and hair salon owners alike. The website’s focus on customer reviews and ratings, clean design, and user-friendly interface makes it easy to use and navigate such as Best Hair Salons in Fort Worth.  Salon owners can leverage the website to improve their online presence.



Continue Reading

Fashion

Celebrating Ghana’s heritage month with the best kente plug out of Africa, GOBA KENTE

Published

on

IMG 9570

Every successful trade begins with a need and the capacity to fulfill that need. GOBA kente is a premium handwoven kente brand located at the 27 Westlands Boulevard, Accra-Ghana that capitalizes on providing highly authentic handcrafted kente products to various sets of clientele that the business serves.PH 8720 Original

GOBA Kente was birthed by the capacity of its owner, Baaba Ankrah to satisfy the need of her then client as a Banker. Her clients explained their challenges in sourcing high quality authentic handwoven kente for an event in 2012. She visited the roots of Kente, Bonwire, and built up connections with the master craftsmen, producers and suppliers to be able to serve both the local and international markets.IMG 9568

The custom designs of GOBA are the end results of the high end creativity of the CEO, her team and the expertise of master craftsmen who understand the works of a Loom and knows how to create magic out of colors and patterns.

IMG 9565
After 11 years of challenges and dedication, the brand can boast of not just its unique products but of it’s high end clients both locally and internationally in the likes the of popular Jonesbondweddng, Mrs. Samira Bawumia, Serwaa Amihere, Nana Aba Anamoah, Berla Mundi, Rev. Dr. Mrs. Gifty Lamptey, Mrs. Charlotte Osei, Sheryllee Ralph and many others. The exceptional service rendered to them and more has led to numerous recognition of the brand globally. As we serve, we hope to build and boost the social impact and economic impact of the Ghana kente weaving industry.

Continue Reading

Fashion

How to Style Your Denim Jacket: 7 Fashion Looks for Every Occasion

Published

on

How to Style Your Denim Jacket: 7 Fashion Looks for Every Occasion

Denim jackets are timeless! It’s been on the trend since your parents back in the day, and it’s still the mainstay for millennials and gen z. The main reason, of course, is because of the material that is comfortable and suitable for all types of outfits. You can wear a denim jacket for hanging out at a cafe, watching a music festival, or even as work attire.

Yes, you can wear a denim jacket for any occasion. From a casual event to a formal one, with the right supporting outfit and fashion items, you can style your look without worries of becoming a fashion disaster. Read on below to find the best way to style your denim jacket for any occasion!

1.   With an all-white outfit: Make a denim jacket a statement!

If you want to dress for a casual event, you don’t need to worry about mix & match fashion items. Just pair a denim jacket with a t-shirt, jeans, sneakers, and you’re ready to go! To make your denim jacket look more like a fashion statement, choose an all-white outfit to make you look neater.

2.   Suitable for every event: Combine a denim jacket with a leather skirt

Suitable for any occasion, be it for a formal event, a casual day out, or even a work attire you can pair your denim jacket with a turtleneck cropped top and a high-waist leather skirt. For more formal events at night, you can wear accessories such as earrings with large hoops, or pair your outfit with a black high-knee boot that can make you look more elegant and put out for a formal event.

3.   Catchy when it comes to fashion: Denim jackets and maxi dresses

Wearing a plaid maxi dress to attend a party invitation? Why don’t you mix and match your plaid dress with a denim jacket? The plaid dress is famous for its design that is not too formal but not too casual either. For a more catchy fashion statement, you can wear a denim jacket that is ripped and worn-looking.

4.   Professional and polished: Denim jacket as a fashion statement

Who says you can’t wear denim for a professional setting? You can wear a denim jacket for any occasion even for an office outfit. Denim is the best-added statement to your look, on top of adding warm comfort in a rainy or colder season.

You only need to pair a denim jacket with a neutral-colored blouse and culottes. To make you look more formal but still high fashion, you can add a high knee boot with a catchy animal print for your shoes choice. As a final touch, you can use a clutch or Kelly bag!

5.   For an urgent meeting: Pair any fashion outfit that looks formal with a denim jacket

Have an urgent meeting and don’t have much time to prepare for your outfit? Well, no worries! You can still look professional but still fashionable at work. Mix and match simple t-shirts, wide-length pants made of suede, leather bags, and pointed shoes that are timeless and elegant. To make it look more formal, add outerwear such as a denim jacket that can tie your look and make you look even better! Don’t worry, a denim jacket won’t make you look too casual, instead, it can be a statement point for your whole look.

6.   Perfect pair for a casual dress: A denim jacket is a key

For a social event or casual date, you can pair a casual dress with a denim jacket to elevate your look. Be it a summery dress or a tight dress, whichever your go-to look is, you can add a denim jacket to complete your look. Worry not about the choice of color, because denim jackets which usually have a neutral blue color, are suitable to be combined with all kinds of colors, including vibrant colors, such as yellow, red, or orange.    Your denim jacket is the best kind of clothing that can either tone down or tone up your outfit look.

7.   Cool babes: Denim on Denim

Denim on denim is back in trend and you should try it out to achieve a cool and edgier feel to your outfit. You can pair a denim jacket with jeans, a small sling bag, high heels, and statement sunglasses to add to your look! Neat and polished, you definitely look like the coolest babe alive!

There are more ways to style your denim jackets aside from what we show here! You can find lots of OOTD inspiration and mix-and-match tips on a platform such as TikTok, Instagram, and even Youtube videos. Being fashionable with your favorite denim jacket is easier to be done because you can utilize many platforms in order to get the best fashion inspiration!

Continue Reading

Trending