The Edit: 5 Chic Looks to Wear on an Early Fall Getaway
The end of summer doesn’t mean the end of vacations. If a change of scenery is on the horizon, then a corresponding wardrobe that accounts for the shifting temperatures is a worthy investment. Whether you’re taking one last trip to the beach, or a weekend getaway to your favorite bed and breakfast is your first vacation this year, preparing for the the cool days ahead is easier than you might think, thanks to African designers including Abiola Olusola and Andrea Iyamah creating the perfect transitional pieces for the changing seasons.
Fall weather may be unpredictable but below are five pieces from African and Black-owned designer brands that you can depend on to keep you stylish and comfortable this autumn.
The Swimwear
Just like the rays of sunshine that manage to peek through a cloudy fall day, the Eko One-Piece Swimsuit by Nigerian swimwear brand Salt and Sunscreen is guaranteed to brighten your mood. The unpadded one-piece bathing suit features a front knot that adds some dimension to the design, while the red, white and blue abstract design offers versatility for pairing with other pieces. Designing with the feminine physique of curvy African women in mind, Salt and Sunscreen creates swimwear out of high-quality Lycra that ensures a comfortable fit for all body types.
The Cover-up
There is no doubt that cool breezes will strike from time to time, which will require you to cover up a little more than just a swimsuit can offer. The Nike Mesh Dress, also by Salt and Sunscreen, not only offers the perfect accompaniment to the Eko swimsuit, it also doubles up as a stylish dress that can be worn on its own. It’s also the perfect transitional piece for fall—it can effortlessly take you from beach to bar to dinner.
The Day Dress
Stay comfortable and cool while trekking around during the day, with the Demi Dress by Nigerian ready-to-wear brand Abiola Olusola. This mid-length dress has been handcrafted in Lagos by artisans in blue and yellow checked cotton. The lightweight design will keep you cool while the sun is shining, but shield you from those windy days by the shore, proving that you don’t have to sacrifice comfort for style. Inspired by 1990s grunge and Northern Nomadic tribes, this breezy dress perfectly blends its voluminous silhouette and lightweight feel to compliment the changing seasons.
The Going Out Dress
The Sol Mini Dress by Nigerian womenswear brand Andrea Iyamah is an elegant and bold choice for a fall night out. Designed to help you stand out, the Sol dress is rendered in sunshine yellow and a ruching design that is flattering and comfortable, making it a simple yet stylish choice to throw on before taking on the night life of your autumn vacation spot.
Founded by Nigerian fashion designer Dumebi Iyamah, Andrea Iyamah is a clothing line strongly inspired by color. Popular for its eccentric take on swimwear, the brand also specializes in ready-to-wear designs such as this dress, giving you a chic array of vacation-ready looks to choose from.
The Cool Top
Temperatures may be dropping, but so will jaws when you style yourself in the Zali Orange Top from Abiola Olusola. This top is perfect for those cooler evenings when the sun has gone down, but you’re still up. Featuring a square neckline, long sleeves, a fitted silhouette that flares out from the waist, button-down detailing, and a cut-out on the front that distinguishes it, this striking piece comes in pumpkin-orange hue that’s perfect for fall. It can easily be layered into a chic and fashion-forward look when paired with the matching Zali Shorts or tailored slim-fit pants.
Abiola Olusola is dedicated to showcasing local African craftspeople and works with artisans to create and highlight ways in which traditional fabrics and designs can be part of contemporary living. The brand’s mission is to dress women in thoughtfully designed and handmade luxury clothing that are chic, cool, functional and always stylish.
Words by Eloise Johnson