Buhle Mbonambi
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Cultural Arrival: AFCON 2023 teams turn Félix Houphouët Boigny International Airport into a cultural runway, blending tradition with contemporary flair.
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Sartorial Showdown: From Ghana's vibrant Kente cloth to Nigeria's unity in white and green, witness a style fusion that goes beyond football at AFCON 2023.
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Fashion Celebration: More than just goals, the tournament in Côte d’Ivoire is a celebration of Africa's rich tapestry, with local designers, unique fan fashion, and a showcase of the continent's diverse identity.
Talk about anding in style.
The Félix Houphouët Boigny International Airport in Abidjan recently turned into a fashion show runway as teams from all corners of Africa landed for AFCON 2023.
It wasn't just about the players arriving; it was a parade of cultural pride and style. And this turned the arrivals hall into a vibrant display of African cultural diversity.
Stylish Contenders
Ghana, Senegal, Nigeria, Namibia, Mali and Cameroon kicked off the style showdown, blending traditional attire with a touch of contemporary flair. Ghana's squad rocked the rich and vibrant hues of Kente cloth, showcasing their cultural roots.
Nigeria opted for their classic white tunics and trousers, spiced up with green embroidery and matching hats, shouting out team unity. Senegal, Namibia, Cameroon, Mauritania, and The Gambia brought their A-game with tunics and trousers representing their national colours in style.
Mali were resplendent in a Malian bogolan, made with the signature mud cloth.
Egypt and Morocco chose comfort with athleisure wear, but that didn't mean compromising on style. Their tracksuits and golfers were carefully crafted to mirror their national flags, creating a fusion of sporty and cultural vibes.
Fashion & Football Bond
Football and culture have always enjoyed a symbiotic, mutually beneficial relationship, and AFCON 2023 in Côte d’Ivoire is keeping this tradition alive. Note the practice kits worn by the teams.
They are fashion forward, emblazoned with prints and they have cultural meaning. Fans are also showcasing their allegiance not just through cheers but also through unique fashion choices. On the grandstand, fans are spotted in custom-made clothing in support of their teams.
Local Designers Join the Game
Côte d’Ivoire's designers, Gilles Toures and Ciss St Moïs, jumped on the opportunity, creating special merchandise for the tournament. Toures's designs even made a splash at the opening ceremony, with performers rocking specially designed t-shirts. It's not just about the game; it's a celebration of local talent and style.
AFCON 2023: More Than Football
This tournament isn't just about goals and saves; it's a chance for the world to witness the beauty of Made in Africa fashion. Ivorian designers add a touch of sophistication, highlighting the cultural richness of the host nation. Visitors can explore indigenous fabrics at the Marché De Treichville in Abidjan or dive into traditional fabric-making in Grand Bassam, the historical capital of Côte d’Ivoire.
A Grand Canvas of Culture and Style
As the matches unfold on the field, AFCON 2023 becomes a canvas for cultural exchange and sartorial expression. It's not just about the games; it's a convergence of sport, style, and tradition. Africa's fashion scene takes the spotlight, inviting the world to appreciate the continent's diverse and vibrant identity.
AFCON 2023 in Côte d’Ivoire isn't just a football tournament; it's a celebration of Africa's rich tapestry of culture and fashion. It has the potential to weave together the threads of tradition and modernity in a display of style, proving that on this grand stage, fashion is as important as the final score.
Header Images: Sourced from Ghana Football, Nigeria Football and Senegal Football associations.