Kente is an African traditional fabric of the Ashanti people of Ghana. It is a hand-woven cloth made with intricate patterns and bright colours. The fabric is woven on a loom with combined yarns of cotton and silk to create various dynamic geometric patterns. Kente, as most people know it, is not primarily the printed waxed designs made by textile companies. The printed designs are only evidence of the providence of technology. The ancient fabrics were weaved on wooden looms with dyed thread. I would like to think that this process of weaving bears a resemblance to the Aso Ofi of the Yoruba people. Discover the global base for Aso-Oke, Iseyin.
Kente weaving is a unique art of the Ghanaians that takes quite a while to learn. Perfecting the skills of weaving could take years. That is why the woven Kente fabrics are expensive and are seen as a symbol of royalty. The fabric is a symbol of history and the culture of the Ghanaian people. Beyond the pleasing aesthetics, weavers are able to express stories and emotions through their works, creating unique patterns and techniques. These patterns and techniques are then given names by the weavers as a product of their creativity. It is safe to call it art.
Kente, as most people know it, is not primarily the printed waxed designs made by textile companies. The ancient fabrics were weaved on wooden looms with dyed thread.
Quick Fact
How to wear Kente
Kente has social-cultural significance. It is associated with prestige and wealth. Historically, kings and royals were the only ones allowed to wear the fabric; they were the only ones who could afford it. Today, it is worn for important ceremonies such as weddings, burials, and festivals. The men wear a single large piece of fabric in a toga-like style, wrapped around the body with one shoulder and arm left exposed, while the women wear it in two pieces: as a wrapped dress around the chest, leaving both arms free, and as a shawl.
Also, with the growth of style and fashion, some women prefer to sew theirs into dresses. Stay up to date on the newest in the world of Fashion, Arts, Beauty and Lifestyle; Follow FAB on socials.
The Irresistible effect of Kente on the international stage
Over time, Kente has transcended its traditional role to become the most popular African fabric in the world. It is seen as a symbol of African culture. In foreign movies, It is the go-to fabric often used to depict the African people. It doesn’t matter if the characters are of Kenyan or Batswana origin; they always get costumed in kente prints. Who is to blame? The fabric is truly beautiful. With its burst of colours, originality, and rich creativity behind it, it is almost irresistible to costume designers. Here are 5 Kenyan brands you shouldn’t miss.
Uniting the Race
Annually, African Americans and students from black colleges in the United States graduate wearing kente stoles. In 2019, the members of the U.S. Congress wore stoles during the Congressional Black Caucus Emancipation Day event as a symbol of African unity and heritage, solidarity, and pride.
With celebrities and public figures, kente has gained a reputation as a fashionable fabric. Africans in diaspora proudly wear it to show off their African identity. Explore eFab Summer Edition now!
Kente embodies style, creativity, and the rich African culture. It is a powerful symbol of identity, and it is no surprise that its popularity continues to grow. Let Kente continue to pave the way for the globalisation and appreciation of other African fabrics that equally hold the stories and legacies of the coloured people. Tour the world of African prints here.
