Retro fashion trends
Fashion trends evolve over time, how else can we explain why our parents’ and grandparents’ pictures are different from today’s pictures. No, we’re not just talking about the picture quality or the way they used to pose.
Unlike human hair wigs, crop tops and silk fits; afro haircuts, maxi skirts and oleku outfits were among the the fashion trends that separated the baddies from the wannabes back in the day.
These trends are either now completely obsolete or have made a comeback into modern fashion. In this article, we highlight 7 old school fashion trends that your parents can relate to (for a change):
1. Cowries
Cowries, which are actually the thickened shell of marine snails, matchmade fashion and religion together. Originally, cowries served as a form of currency and were also used for religious purposes. As fashion pieces, they were used to adorn women’s hairstyles, dresses, necks, wrists, waists and ankles. Religious people also used it for oracle divination and to attract fortune.
Cowries have also taken root in these in modern times. Remember when Beyoncé wore a headpiece and dress adorned with cowries? Or when some designers went as far as using it to design nose masks when the Covid-19 pandemic was at it’s peak?
2. Tribal Marks
Tribal marks are deep cuts that are carved on the faces of people from some Nigerian tribes. Although now an archaic practice, tribal marks were once predominant (mostly in the Yoruba and Hausa tribes) because of how symbolic they were.
While tribal marks served mostly as means for identification and as measures to ward off evil especially for children or women that were struggling with stillbirths and ogbanje; they were also used as permanent beauty enhancers for men and women. They were worn with pride because they symbolised beauty, honor and heritage.
They also had their own thing with tattoos; even though, it was mostly just tattooing their names and simple shapes on their body. We still respect their game.
3. Hair Styles
Amongst the popular hairstyles for women back then were threading, plaits, jerry curls and setting. For men, the bad boy haircut that could get you all the ladies was an afro punk with a stylish front parting. For most men though, complete skinning and low cut was sufficient.
Unlike now, hairdos were strictly for women. The only exceptions were men with natural locs or Sango worshippers.
4. Vintage Outfits
Vintage clothing is one of those fashion trends that has made a fashion comeback. Back then, baggy vintage shirts and short suits (with knee-length trouser suits) were the everyday outfits for men while Agbada was reserved for occasions. Women usually rocked their geles, bubas and wrappers.
If there is one thing that is evident from old school fashion, it is that fashion truly evolves.
#TraditionalValues is a segment documenting the beauty of indigenous culture. This editions showcases the vintage fashion trends of Nigerians.
