Fashion
Galaxy of creative talents at ATU fashion show
Though formerly considered a profession for school drop-outs and, therefore, unattractive, fashion design and textiles productionis fast becoming a great industry and making a significant impact on the lives and fortunes of many Ghanaians.
Identified as a creative industry, the actors in this field have made their impact to be feltby producing beautiful garments to satisfy the needs of their customers, both locally and internationally.
The display of variety and equally –matched designs at the 2022 Accra Technical University (ATU)final year students’ Fashion Design and Textile Show made it impossible for spectators to put a finger on which particular design was the best.
The Vice-Chancellor of ATU, Prof. Samuel Odoi, in his address, said he was glad the university had equipped the students with the requisite skills which had turned them into unique designers and entrepreneurs.
He lauded the support parents had given to their wards throughout their period of studies in the university, making it possible for the students to complete their courses successfully.
The Head of Fashion Design and Textile Department (HOD), Mrs Catherine Adu, also said fashion and textile had become a lucrative industry for both amateurs and the professionals. And in the quest to satisfy the growing demands in the industry, sustainability was the watchword.
She said from production stage to post-production, there were various practices in the industry that contributed to an unsustainable pattern and had affected the ecosystem.
“Fashion plays a crucial role in everyone’s life and the type of dress we wear, the accessories we put on help to define who we area,” she said.
According to her, fashion trends kept changing because designers would use their creativity to merge old styles with new trends and introduce a new fashion altogether. She said in the past, fashion was used to symbolise wealth, elegance and glamour, but today it reflected a way of life, the inner beauty and people’s comfort.
Mrs Adu said the Department trained students to acquire holistic knowledge and a well-balanced perspective which enabled them to become professionals to operate in the modern fashion design and textile industry.
The Guest Speaker who is the Creative Director and Co-founder of Wear Ghana Limited, MsAngorkorNai-Kwade, who said she started from a humble beginning, urged the students to aim high in life since there were many opportunities to be explored, provided they were prepared to embrace the challenges that would come their way.
She advised them to sharpen their skills, improve on their mistakes, draw inspirations from those who have excelled in the industry, know their capabilities and limitations, develop the right attitude to work, do the right thing, and be content with their capabilities since each person was endowed with a unique talent.
By Raymond Kyekye
Fashion
Block Heels: Perfect blend of style, comfort, versatility
Footwear trends have evolved over the years, and one of the most practical yet stylish options for women is the block heel.
This versatile shoe blends elegance with comfort, making it a preferred choice for corporate settings, churches, and social gatherings.
Unlike stilettos, block heels offer stability, making them easy to walk in.
Corporate fashion
Traditionally, corporate fashion often included wedge heels or classic pumps.
However, the fashion landscape has shifted to embrace block heels as a stylish and practical alternative.
These heels provide a broader surface area, distributing body weight evenly and reducing strain on the feet.
As a result, many workplaces have accepted block heels as part of formal attire, allowing employees to wear them comfortably throughout the workday.
Versatility
Block heels are not limited to corporate settings. Many women pair them with their church outfits, showcasing various designs and colours.
Available in shades like pink, purple, blue, yellow, silver, gold, and black, these heels complement different looks, whether for a religious gathering, lectures, presentations, or parties. Top brands such as Pretty Little Thing, Walmart, Fashion Nova, Amazon, DSW, and Macy’s offer a wide range of block heels catering to different budgets.
Why Block Heels?
Compared to stilettos or kitten heels, block heels provide better balance, making them an ideal choice for beginners and experienced wearers alike.
Short block heels, in particular, are recommended for those new to wearing heels, as they offer comfort and ease of movement.
Tips for Walking in Block Heels
1. Practice regularly – Consistent practice will help improve your balance and confidence.
2. Step heel to toe – Walk naturally by placing your heel down first, followed by your toe.
3. Take small steps – Walking slowly in small steps ensures better control and stability.
4. Lean back slightly – This helps maintain an upright posture and prevents unnecessary pressure on the feet.
5. Follow an imaginary straight line – Visualising a straight path can enhance walking precision.
6. Ensure a proper fit – Wearing well-fitted block heels enhances comfort and reduces foot fatigue.
Block heels are special shoes with thick heels that make walking easy. If you are new to wearing heels, start with short block heels.
They have become a staple in women’s fashion, providing the perfect blend of elegance, comfort, and versatility.
By following simple walking techniques, anyone can confidently step out in block heels and enjoy both fashion and function.
By Georgina Boadiwaa Ntim
Fashion
Kente styles on display
Colourful kente designs were on display at the investiture of President John Dramani Mahama and Prof. Naana Jane Opoku- Agyemang.
While many attendees looked spectacular, others looked exceptional in how they rock the kente.
It projected the pride and superiority of the local texture to the international community as guest dressed resplendently in various designs.
Here are some of the impressive designs on display.
By Linda Abrefi Wadie
