Because Women Can: Trend Alert!

Ezinne Zinkata

“What men can do, women can do better” “What men can wear, women can wear better”
  Fashionistas are on a moving androgynous train. They definitely aren’t screeching to a halt just yet; they want to have it all! Dear men, what looks hotter than a woman rocking masculine clothes? – Fire wouldn’t even dare.

 The Agbada a.k.a grand boubou (or what I like to call ‘the big man outfit’) has for decades regally graced the backs of men in West Africa. Although this traditional outfit goes by different names in several West African countries, it is however popularly called Agbada in Nigeria. How this bulky mass of fabric caught the fancy of fashion forward females beats me, but I love the fashion audacity!

 Here are ways to rock this trend without looking like you’re in transition to having a sex change.

• Work with your frame, not against it. The orthodox boubou-length for men is ankle-grazing, but if you are vertically challenged, opt for a shorter boubou; preferably hip length.

Toyin Aimakhu

 ... Taller frames can push boundaries by opting for a knee-length boubou.

Yemi Alade

• Stick to tailored pants. You wouldn’t want to look like you were thrown into a sack, so avoid wearing baggy pants. Rather, opt for an ankle-length-straight-leg cut.

•  Avoid overwhelming accessories. The grand boubou is a statement outfit, so keep accessories to the barest minimum. 
• Heels! Heels!! Heels!!! Nothing screams “I’m female” louder than heels.  Give balance to the masculine look with a pair of killer heels.

Or be a fashion dare devil; rebel and create your rules. Just look fab!

Photo Credit: 360nobs