Being an African means I own a couple of African fashion pieces. Now that am far away from home, I own quite a number. When I was getting ready to leave Kenya for the states, one thing that I wanted to carry in plenty, aside from the spices, was my African print clothes; also called kitenge. I think it’s the idea of knowing that this is the one thing that gives you your identity, while reminding you of where you’re from and your culture. The funny thing is I never knew I would be so keen to wear African print inspired anything! This look was reserved for our aunties and mums because it really was not cool 😊 However, one day there was this beautiful piece of material that I found, it was dark green and red and I imagined all the amazing designs I could make from it. I asked my mum for it and I went and made my first ever design. A nice crop top (before crop tops were the in thing) together with a flared skirt. I officially owned my first matching set!Mixing and matching African prints back then was not very common. The norm is to wear it as a set or a neutral color on top while pairing it with the African print on the bottom. Mixing patterns artfully can be super tricky, it’s all about what prints balance each other. It can feel like a daunting task or that you need a stylist eye, because on its own African print is already colorful, bold and full of patterns. So how do you mix two already busy prints?First, you can clash your colors and still come up with a killer look. It also helps in recreating bold fashionable statement outfits that allow you to be creative with your style.TIPS ON HOW TO MIX AND MATCH;When you are getting ready to mix African print navigate this tricky path by using these tips; Choose a dominant print - pick a dominant color that is shared by both prints, as the rest of the print should act like the accents. When you pick a print the simpler the graphic prints, the easier it is to mix.Select prints that have different scales - this could mean a large stripe mixed with a small floral design.Use a belt to break up the patterns - a solid colored belt can break up the patterns between a shirt, pants or skirt. If you put on your accessories they should tie in to the overall look not distract. Think mixing textures!Same prints in different colors - a great way to start; choose the same exact pattern but in different colors. Your patterns should share the same color family to achieve elegant and modern balance.When mixing more than two prints together - break the outfit with a solid color especially if the two mixing prints are already vibrant. Ensure your patterns and textures don’t compete; look for a connection!Remember when trying to mix and match African print the take away is to balance out the prints in such a way that it won’t be overwhelming. Create something visually exciting and most importantly, African print is not for the faint hearted. Always wear it with confidence, this print is for you to stand out so #beboldbebravebedifferentLet me know how you mix and match your African print!My necklace is from my dear friend Sharon and I would recommend you check her out on Facebook @friendswholikenecklaceswithsharon She carries a wide selection of necklaces you gotta have!!

HOW TO MIX AND MATCH AFRICAN PRINT