Now in its eighth season, the ASOS Africa Collection returns for Autumn/Winter ’13.
Since launching its modest debut capsule collection eight seasons ago, the ethical ASOS Africa line has gone from strength to strength. Not only has it been picked up by the likes of First Lady Michelle Obama but the collection has grown in size and style.
For AW13, ASOS Africa takes on a much more grownup aesthetic. Gone are the statement print dungarees that would look great on Cara D but probably not many else, and the vibrant print clashes and saccharine colour palettes. Here we have a much more refined collection of 15 separates from below the knee plaid shirts to wearable shirt dresses.
As always the collection is not only manufactured in Africa using fair and safe employment, but it looks to the continent for inspiration too. For AW13 the Masai Tribes of Kenya act as inspiration and their traditional use of three way Shuka fabrics. The ASOS design team have thus incorporated this into the collection by fusing together three variations of plaids, crafted into a number or styles including drawstring and pinafore detail dresses and oversized shirts and sweatshirts.
Nodding to one of AW13’s biggest trends – the print clash, the plaids sit beside anything from leopard print jacquard to a charming scenic elephant print. A muted colour palette softens everything up from simple monochrome to moss greens and deep burgundy.
The collection has been made in Kenya by SOKO, a clothing workshop which provides fair and safe employment to some of Kenya’s poorest communities. SOKO predominantly employ and train women, giving them vital financial support to help with their children’s welfare and education.
The StyleNest team currently have their eye on the plaid sweater and skirt combo – a sporty, tomboy take on this season’s tartan trend.
The 15-piece ASOS Africa Collection for AW13 is available to buy online now at ASOS. Prices start from £36.
For more Autumn/Winter ’13 trends and how to wear them visit StyleNest’s Get The Look page here.