Francisca

About Francisca

https://www.africanfashionandlifestyles.com/

Hi, I am Francisca! I bring to you the best in african fashion trends,outfit ideas and tips.

Posts by Francisca Obeng:

15 Gorgeous Office Wear For Curvy Ladies

Office Wear for Curvy Ladies

There are so many myths about what plus-size women can and cannot wear. Curvy women are many times asked to limit themselves to dull colors, straight-leg pants, long dresses and skirts, vertical stripes and so many other misleading style tips that we all need to unlearn. Everyone should have the freedom to wear whatever they want as long as it is occasion-appropriate and they are comfortable in it.

When it comes to the office, decent and formal wear is expected. Well, that is just the norm and not at all debatable. Here are some office wear ideas for curvy ladies that will ensure you keep it trendy and maintain your style while still looking formal and presentable in different settings.

Office Professional wear for curvy ladies

This style is what most people will wear on a day-to-day work setup. The outfits are mostly characterized by suits, button-down shirts, and blazers. People who work in the government, banks, or law firms can highly relate to this. This style is usually standard for all body types and the following are just a few trendy suit styles for office wear for plus-size ladies.

Suit: fashionnovacurve

Suit: Lugo_collection

Polkadot suit office wear for curvy ladies

Source: lollysticks

Navy blue skirt and coat style for curvy ladies

Suit: Lugo_collection

Suit: sheincurve

Business formal office wear for curvy ladies

Business formal outfits are usually a little more polished and stylish and are reserved for business events such as appreciation or award ceremonies and product launch events. Media personalities are also often in this style. Belted dresses or dresses that are a bit cinched are the most common business wear for curvy ladies at such events.

Asymmetric neck style dress for plus size ladies

Source: aishajoynews

Source: lollysticks

Outfit: fashionnovacurve

Source: lollysticks

Smart casual wear for plus size ladies

A combination of official and casual wear is termed smart casual. I feel like this is the most comfortable type of office wear as you can just pair your comfiest jeans and a blazer and there you have it! Most smart casual office wear for plus-size ladies include a pair of jeans or even some cool sneakers.

Source: lollysticks

Outfit: fashionnovacurve

Outfit: fashionnovacurve

Outfit: Rebdolls

Outfit: karen_millen

Outfit: fashionnovacurve

Office wear for curvy ladies never has to be boring. From the variety of colors and designs you can pick, there is so much versatility when it comes to styling. Unleash the stylish you even at work!

15 Beautiful African Hair Braiding Styles

African hair braids are gradually making a name for themselves in the world, if it’s not Alicia Keys styling this type of hair with some beautiful transparent beads, it is RiRi taking us by surprise with some beautiful black braids.

It’s not only because of its link to our Afro centrism, but because of its flexibility and versatility. There are thousands of varieties of different colours and styles you can choose from.

Below are 15 top different types of African hair braiding styles carefully selected for you to rock this year.

African hair braiding styles you should try this year 2022

Assymmetrical sides Ghana braids

This braid is eye-catching with its alluring asymmetrical sides that look like a love symbol.

Black bob braids with unequal length

This African hair braid oozes class and elegance just like the way the usual bob hairstyle would.

Poetic Justice Braids

This braid is not only famous because Janet Jackson rocked it in a movie but rather because of it’s elegance and beauty.

Spacy cornrows braids

This is one of the African hair braiding styles with effortlessly clean rows!

Twisted box braids

The twist and gold colour highlights makes this braid cheesy and comely.

Two sides braids

This is one of the most simple African hair braiding styles in vogue. Very classy and chick.

Pink Twisted braids

You can explore this style with a different shiny colour of your choice.

Jungle Braids

This is one of the most trendiest African hair braiding styles in 2022. Everyone loves it because the style is simply novel and gorgeous.

Black box braids with colourful ends

Mixing two colours can never go out in style. And if you must do make sure the colour at the ends are bright.

Knotless braids

This style comes in handy as you will have varieties of styling options to choose from.

Cornrows with curls

This is one of the coolest curly African hair braiding styles you should try if you need a hairstyle that will accentuate your beauty.

Braids with beads

I doubt anyone can beat out the beauty and Afrocentricity of this hair. African hair braiding styles with beads is one way to show how exotic you are.

Large box braids with curly ends

This is another African hair braiding styles with curls. It is simple to make and can be very easy on one’s head.

Dyed box braids

You can choose to dye your hair or go with your usual colour. But do not forget to add those transparent beads to give it some finishing touches.

Cornrows with high bun and pink highlights

This is just femininely elegant. You don’t have to use pink, you can use your favorite colour as the highlight.

I hope you find your perfect braid!

15 Gorgeous Kids Braids Hairstyles For Your Baby Girl

15 Beautiful Kids Braids your Little Girl will Love

If you’re looking for a kids braids hairstyles for your little one, then these kids braids ypu are about to see are your go-to.

Braids don’t just stay longer on the hair, they are easy to make and they can be styled into several shapes and designs to suit your kid’s preference.

Whether your child wants a style for school or end-of-term party or even a birthday photoshoot, kids braids come in handy.

So if you’re looking for an inspiration on which type of braid to make for your kids, I have carefully selected ten beautiful and clean kids braids you can try on your them.

Lovely Kids Braids Cornrow Styles

Big and small cornrows with bun

This is perfect for little girls who love their hair packed. It allows for greater freedom for the kid to move around without being too bothered about their hair disturbing.

Kids Braid With Beads

If your little girl fancies hairstyle with beads, then this might just be the best choice for you.

Braids in Bantu knots

I just love this braid, the Bantu knots sits flawlessly while giving your child a cute petite look.

Two simple plaited braid

Perfect for a school end-of-term party or a birthday photoshoot, this hairstyle will accentuate your girl’s face so elegantly.

Medium-sized braids with transparent bead

This is a mesmerizing beautiful kids braid with beads, as you can see this hairstyle will add shim and glimmer to your baby girl’s face.

Kids Braid With Heart Styles

Do you love to draw a heart with cornrows to express love for your little girl? Then try this kid’s braids with heart-shaped cornrows.

Kids Braid With Curly Ends

If you want your little girl to look more confident and bold, then this kid’s braid might just be your ally. You can play around with other colors such as a darker shade of purple, too.

Cornrows with bun and curly ends

This is an extravagant kids braids that do just what it is expected to do, making your baby girl look more extravagant.

Black braids with beads

Don’t you just love those beads with eyes? They add a shimmering effect even though they are not sparkling like transparent beads.

Braids with colorful beads and rubber threads

This is another kid’s braids hairstyle with beads that just takes our breath away. If your daughter loves a lot of color and fun, this hairstyle might just be her best fit.

I hope you find the one perfect for your kids!

22 Fashionably Smart Corporate Wears For Ladies

Fashionable Corporate Wear for Ladies

Corporate wears for ladies is one fashion category that has evolved a lot since the 20^th century. From the boring skirt suits and plain uniforms that were worn years ago, corporate styles have diversified into various fashionable designs.

Brown suit corporate style for slim ladies

In African culture, modest dressing is highly valued. Most families can be very strict when it comes to dressing.

White corporate work wear for slim ladies

I mean, if you are from Africa, especially Nigeria, you most definitely know what I am talking about. Corporate wear for ladies is largely embraced as most designs and can even double as a corporate wear for church.

African ladies are at the forefront of popularizing this trend with their beautiful sense of style. Corporate corner is one of the most reliable suppliers of office wear for ladies in Nigeria. These are a few of the designs they stock up on.

Corporate formal wear for ladies is most of the time expected to be of neutral colors. Probably because neutral and dark colors are seen as more official. Many ladies are however now going out of their comfort zone and exploring brighter colors. Alicia (hintofglamour) is our muse when it comes to going wild with colors.

Suit: Zara

Suit: Zara

Suit: materialtbilisi

Coat: staud.clothing

Suit: Zara

For the decency expected in places of worship, corporate wear is a good way for ladies to look modest and still maintain their style. These corporate wear ideas for church might save you a lot of time while getting ready.

More Corporate Wears For Ladies Styles

Outfit: corporatecorner

Outfit: corporatecorner

Photo credits: edaowofashion

Outfit: karen-millen

Photo credits: edaowofashion

Outfit: coastfashion

Office Wears for Curvy Ladies

It has always been a huge myth that curvier women appear less corporate and don’t have the “business look”. Serwaa Amihere is a Ghanaian journalist and her style effortlessly proves this myth wrong. Check out these office wear for curvy ladies by her.

Modern corporate wear for ladies looks stylish with the right designs and colors.

Grab yourself an outfit from these designers and suppliers and bring out the elegant in you!

17 Mordern Iro and Buba Styles

Iro and Buba is a Nigerian attire worn by the Yoruba people of western Nigeria. With Iro being the wrapper and Buba the blouse, the attire is worn with a beautiful head tie usually the color of the Iro known as Gele.

Originally, Iro and Buba are made out of the traditional Yoruba Aso Oke material which is a woven fabric. However, rolling with the times, Iro and Buba styles can be made out of Adire-the traditional dyed fabric, Ankara, Lace, Silk, or any material there is.

Looking for what occasion to wear your Iro and Buba to? No worries! The style can be worn for different kinds of occasions ranging from weddings to parties.

As fashion evolved, so did the Iro and Buba style. From the ‘60s style of cutting the wrapper short to become Oleku, to draping the Iro in front in a goddess knot which was originally tied at the back, to the 21st century Iro gown style. Whichever style is being rocked, Iro can never go out of fashion.

As always, we are here to give you the latest Iro and Buba Styles from Iro and Buba Ankara Styles; Iro and Buba Lace Styles; to Iro and Buba Oleku Styles. Just feast your eyes as you keep scrolling, better still, get ready to slay your Iro and Buba with these latest styles.

How to style your Iro and Buba in 2022?

Colonize it – Switch the gele for a fascinator to give that modern yet traditional look. This switch is all shades of rich aunty vibes.

Corset it! – For that snatched Figure 8, you can add a corset to your Buba.

Drape it!- This style can be achieved with lightweight materials such as silk, chiffon, etc. Simply tie the Iro in the front or at the side draping it and tying it in a knot. You can also mix and match your materials for this style by pairing Ankara and Silk, Lace and Ankara, etc.

Fringe It!- Give your style that extra pizzaz when your add fringe or feathers to the hem of your Iro and Buba or either of the two.

Bling It!- They say diamonds are a girl’s best friend. Whatever makes you sparkle, do it, sis. Adding rhinestone, pearls, or Swarovski crystals to your style will not only make you stand out, but you will also outshine them all.

Lace It!- Lace is that link between traditional and modern when it comes to this classic style. The overall look is nothing but pure class.

Check out breathtaking more Asoebi styles like these here

More Iro and Buba Styles

Cut It!- Yes! Oleku is back and giving all shades of finesse like it never left. Simply adjust the length of your Iro slightly above or below your knee and viola! Oleku!

Blend it!- For your Iro and Buba Ankara style, you can blend it with a modern design cotton fabric or keep it simple and stylish.

Construct it!- There is nothing like a dress looking like a work of art, especially a structured dress. Every cut and curve is designed to fit your body.

We hope you rock one of these styles and slay it! Stay glued for more trendy African fashion.

15 AFRICAN PRINT JUMPSUIT STYLES FOR LADIES

AFRICAN PRINT JUMPSUITS FOR LADIES.

African print Jumpsuits styles have become so popular in this day and age. They are roomy and comfortable, plus they are a whole outfit so you don’t have to struggle to put together a fit when you are running late. Just pick your favorite jumpsuit and you’re good to go! The only problem arises when you’re pressed and need to use the bathroom, it can be a really stressful episode. The pros however outweigh the cons so we can overlook that.

Jumpsuits in African print are some of the trendiest. The diversity and beauty of African print make them stand out. Not to mention the variety of styles they come in. Let’s look at the three broad categories of African print jumpsuit styles and some of the best creations designers have come up with.

African Print Jumpsuits That Turn Heads

Pants-style

Since there are many different types of pants, pants-style jumpsuits also come in various designs. From wide-leg to palazzos and culottes, the list is endless. These designers outdid themselves with their African print wide-leg jumpsuits.

Designed by ubh_styles

Designed by adjoayeboahclothing

Designed by iwearafrican

Jumpsuit from ad_lineclothing

blue and yellow african print pattern for jumpsuit

Designed by teabyfade

African print jumpsuits for plus-size ladies leave me in awe every single time I spot them. Check these out…

african print jumpsuit style for plus size

Designed by pamdee-fashion

Designed by pamdee_fashion

Designed by pamdee_fashion

Designed by pamdee_fashion

Rompers

Rompers are jumpsuits in the form of shorts.

Fun fact: Rompers started as children’s clothing hence the name. Romp means to play..

Shorts come with a lot of flexibility and are especially convenient during hot weather. African print jumpsuit shorts can be worn casually, sporty, or even formally. It all depends on the print and design.

Designed by dua_africandesignskenya

Designed by laviye

Designed by ragsnprints

Designed by ofuure

Detachable skirts.

These come as either rompers or pants-style jumpsuits but have a detachable overskirt. You can therefore switch your look however you want. How cool is that? Here are a few gorgeous African print jumpsuits with detachable skirts I picked out for you.

Jumpsuit from diyanu

Jumpsuit from diyanu

African print jumpsuit designs have got to be the best in the jumpsuit market. Every lady should include owning at least one or two on their bucket list. Do you own any and what brand is it?

2022 Amazing Asoebi Wedding Styles

2022 ASOEBI WEDDING STYLES

Wedding season is coming and it’s time to R-E-P-R-E-S-E-N-T!

Asoebi is a Yoruba parlance that translates ‘Family cloth’. It is a piece of fabric chosen by the families of the couple to represent the family on the day of the wedding. In modern times, the asoebi can now be worn by both family and friends. Asoebi brings a certain richness, color, and vibe to any wedding. Now, imagine a wedding without colorful fabrics and high rising gele, plain right?

With the evolution of fashion and life in general, also came the evolution of asoebi with wedding guests gracing the events in different styles and patterns that make you wonder if you missed your way and arrived in Paris for a fashion show. No, you didn’t! You are welcome to the world of Asoebi wedding styles you may or may not know existed.

Like always, we don’t want you to be left out when you receive your fabrics and we also want you up there receiving accolades for how beautiful your asoebi dress style is. So, we are bringing to you hot and fresh 2022 Asoebi Wedding Style trends you must try. Each style is curated to fit all from- Asoebi styles for plus-size ladies, Asoebi lace styles to Minimalist Asoebi styles. We have got it all just for you.

As you scroll through, make sure you take a screenshot or save this article for when the time comes.

Asoebi Bella Lace Styles

Puffy Sleeves

Remember when we all thought puffy sleeves were archaic and not fashionable? well, they are back and better! The puffy sleeves are back from the ’80s and here to stay!

Take a cue from these Asoebi wedding styles and consider adding that high dramatic puffy sleeve to your dress.

Asoebi Wedding Styles Tha Breathes

The Invisible Sleeve

This trend begs to answer the question, “What sleeve?”. This 2021 Asoebi wedding style trend followed us to the new year. The Skintone net or lace gives the illusion of skin. The harder they stare the more they wonder what’s there!

More Asoebi Dress Styles For Days

Here Comes The Guest

You may not be the bride, but you sure can feel like one. But please, try to give the bride her shine, okay. However, the train is a nice attachment to your asoebi wedding styles. It can be positioned in front, by the side, or at the back. Trains give you the regal and queenly look and vibe, adding a touch of royalty to your overall look.

SEE MORE ELECTRIFYING ASOEBI STYLES HERE

Minimalist Chic

So you are not a fan of dramatic clothing. That’s okay, but it does not mean you can’t turn heads in your minimalistic chic clothing. The key to slaying a minimalist asoebi wedding style is in the fitting- it should be the right size with clean cuts and patterns.

Don’t leave your stylist to figure it all out, go for your fitting!

High Fashion

Where are all the dramatic-high-fashion-loving ladies at? These Asoebi Wedding styles will have stepping into a wedding looking like you just walked out of a fashion runway. These structured dresses take their inspiration from design and geometry and are perfect for asoebi style.

We hope these gorgeous asoebi styles for weddings inspire you to give your best and slay at that forthcoming wedding. Add in the comments the Asoebi wedding style you will be trying out.

YOU SHOULD TAKE A LOOK AT THESE ANKARA ASOEBI STYLES HERE

15 Latest Ankara Short Dresses Designs For Elegant Ladies

Ankara short dresses are indeed the current fashion rave amongst ladies in Africa and around the world.

Whether you’re going to a party, a wedding reception, church, and even your working place, Ankara can be perfectly designed to fit into your taste.

From long, short to maxi designs, they can be made to fit into just any style. Ankara short dresses is one of the go-to style for ladies.

Not only does it require just a little material to sew but it can also help you accentuate your femininity with those partly exposed legs.

Here are some of the fifteen latest Ankara short dress designs that you should try out.

Long sleeve net hands on flowery v-necked tube dress

This Ankara short dress design is just elegant especially with its attached pleated short cape at the waistline.

Short tube dress with extravagant bishop sleeve

This look is perfect for a place where you don’t know how formal or informal it will be.

Sleeky pinafore bodice on split fitted skirt

Why not slay this Ankara short dress with a white buttoned long sleeve just like Nancy Isime?

Ankara Short Dress For Plus Size

Bishop sleeve on mini tube dress

This is a perfect Ankara short dress for plus size glam queens.

This is another Ankara short dress style that will look great for chubby glam queens.

Off shoulder body con with flared hems

You can’t go wrong with this Ankara short dress style which perfectly accentuates your assets!

Looking for classy African print tops like these? See 20+ styles here

Colourful turtled neck smock dress

Ankara short dress designs like this is good for any occasion and feels very comfy on the body.

One sleeve hand on mini tube gown

The bell hands makes this dress design even more endearing.

Comely shift dress with side pockets.

I love this look because you can dab it with sneakers or stilettos if you choose to.

Elegant Ankara themed blazers

This blazer can double as an Ankara short free dress or quite suitable for a formal or more professional occasion with a sleek tailored pants.

Crop top on mini skirt

Perhaps you are a fan of Ankara short skirts and tops, and this look is absolutely top class Ankara style for you to choose..

Turtleneck Ankara Short Dress

This captivating look is great for just any traditional wedding reception.

Petal themed bodice with single long sleeve net hand

Smock dress with tiny wrap around on waistline

This cheesy Ankara short dress is great for one thing and that’s because it can be worn to just any occasion.

Flowery bishop hands on plain bandage dress

Perfect for a dinner date!

Deep neckline on mini tube dress

Slay with glamour by wearing this tantalizing Ankara short dress to a party.

I hope you found your perfect style in this collection of Ankara short dress styles for ladies for yourself.

Slay on ladies!

SEE MORE STYLEES LIKE THESE HERE

10 Trending Asoebi Corset Styles For Fashionistas

Asoebi corset styles have over taken the fashion scene in Africa and we are here for every bit of it.

Asoebi is no doubt the most worn dress worn by classy women for almost all owambe parties in Nigeria.

The beauty and rich aunty vibes it gives off can not be underestimated. No wonder celebrities in Nigeria like Tacha Akide did not fail to grace an owambe with a gorgeous aseobi.

If you’re looking for a style inspiration for your next occasion, then these ten asoebi corset styles are your best fit;

Elegant fitted asoebi corset style with exaggerated sleeves

This style is perfect if you want to look elegant without going too simple. Perfect for weddings, book launch and bridal look.

Puffy bell sleeves on simple tub gown

This design is quite simple but beautiful with it’s bell sleeved hands. It doesn’t look too complex and can be worn without the headache of having too much of everything.

Short net sleeve with corset on split fringe gown

With or without a gele this style can draw the attention of everyone in an event. If this is your perfect choice endeavour you make it with a sharp colour such as red or lighter shade of green. You can also swap the net hands with a lace.

Elegant short flared gown with long sleeves

You wanna steal the show and get away with it? This is your perfect owambe style. The embroideries on this gown makes it more classy and stylish.

Looking for gorgeous Ankara styles like these rather? See 20+ styles here

Off shoulder corset on split gown

This is your perfect aseobi style for wedding. The bold colour makes it even more endearing and classic.

One sleeve with lace corset on split frock

You can make a fashion statement like a fashion model with this beautiful aseobi style.

Petals empire sleeve with embroidered split gown

As classy as it looks the embroideries makes it even more glamorous.

Tub gown with attached ball sleeve and wraparound cape

Here’s another aseobi style that’s perfect for a owambe. Cheesy and still elegant.

Simple sleek embroidered tub gown

It is no surprise this design was worn by so many celebrities like Mercy Eke, Nini, Toke and so many others. This is perfect choice for glam queens.

Open shoulders Asoebi velvet style

If you won’t be shopping this velvet derived asoebi style for the next owambe, then I don’t know what you will be wearing.

These are the top ten asoebi corset styles that is currently trending in 2022, do well to sew the one perfect for your shape and occasion.

Go owambe!

10 Gorgeous Latest Ankara Styles You will love

2022 LATEST ANKARA STYLES

They say you are never fully dressed without a smile. In 21^st Century Africa, like a smile, your wardrobe is not complete without any piece of the latest Ankara styles in it.

In fact, not owning any piece of Ankara at this point should be considered a crime. It’s also really amazing what can be made out of Ankara, from office wear to party dresses, lingerie, even swimwear, and the ultimate asoebi; so you are not without excuse.

So, get scrolling and while you are at it, call your tailor, stylist, or designer because you are about to pepper them. So here are 2022 latest Ankara styles:

Ankara Gown Styles

Ankara gowns are a must-have in every fashionable female’s wardrobe. With gowns, you can go all out from short, long, midi, form-fitting, loose, kaftans, etc. Your creativity should not and cannot be limited with gowns, you are free to explore as much as you want. So here are the top 3 2022 Ankara gown styles you should try:

1. The Latest Ankara Styles For Corset Dress

2022 is here and let it not be heard that you don’t own an Ankara piece, and if you have a 6 yards fabric sitting in your closet with no idea of any style for Ankara, we have got you covered, literally, from Ankara gown styles to Ankara styles for couples, Ankara styles for plus size ladies, any style of Ankara you can think of, we have got it for you.

2. The Ankara Milkmaid sleeve style

3. The Structured Dress

Work Styles for Ankara

We are moving to that time when we can confidently wear Ankara to work. Up your work clothes with these Ankara Styles For Work:

Ankara Gown Style for Work

2. Ankara Two-Piece Style

3. Ankara Jumpsuit Style

Looking for classy African print tops like these? See 20+ styles here

Ankara Styles for Plus Size Ladies

Ladies! It’s time to show up and show out them curves. These styles are classy chic and simple to sew and wear for all our thick and luscious plus size ladies

Ankara Crop Top and Skirt

2.Ankara Gown Styles for Plus Size Ladies

3. Two Piece Ankara Crop Top and Skirt

Ankara Styles For Couples

2022 is that year to step in style with your partner. Yes! Be that couple goals that slay together. Don’t what styles to do? Here you go:

Ankara Trousers Style

Ankara trouser styles are so chic and classy, you can never go wrong with it. 2022 top Ankara trouser styles:

We trust we have given you enough styles to rock 2022 in style. Now, get your tailor on the phone and share with them these trendy Ankara styles.

Also, put in the comments what styles you want to see, and stay tuned because we bringing it to you hot!