The fashion train starts in Paris, winds its way into Milan and makes noise in New York thus we have fierce competition even with echoes that reverberate  from UK, Tokyo, Buenos Aires, Lagos and Jo’burg.

I did not agree with all the trends but when the runway speaks, it has a amazing effect to stun its critics when the streets embrace them. After tireless trending’s in the latest magazines and the visions of fashion gods, I have narrowed down a selected few as an F.Y.I.  My regards to Nederlands based Vlisco for the exclusive look at their Haute Maroquinerie choice leather items to be showcased at their boutiques in Togo, Cote d’Voire, Congo DRC and Benin.

Leather is making a come back in the form of the ultra fitted jacket, the boot and now with a wax print flavor. I have checked and currently Vlisco is the only company specializing in the synthesis of wax print with leather. Women who choose to wear the leather jacket need to be aware that its best when worn with a outfit that nicely hugs your body for example this French Connection Jacket(so this means tank tops, strapless, sleeveless or sleek dresses are a plus).

The knee cut pant leg has been featured by designers such as Andre 3000, Marc Jacobs and Ozwald Boateng. Benjamin Bixby(an Andre 3000 design) captured it best in this time warp inspired 3piece menswear that is accented with the wool jacket.

Ozwald Boateng is introducing men to the world of tweed (which we women have been enjoying in our business attire) that is made attractive in his use of a silken cotton pant and shirt. Both the Andre 3000 and Ozwald Boateng line displayed the bow-tie as part of their launch in Milan this year.

California, USA based, Ethiopian/German designer Yodit Eklund has done her background proud by utilizing her upbringing in nations across Africa (our own included). The Bantu swimwear collection has a heavy East Africa beach culture influence with some of the items labeled as the Mombasa Body Suit.

The pendant ring is to be admired, men have their brass knuckle rings and now see this Marc by Marc Jacobs feline brand which will sure to dazzle a cocktail party crowd. House of Dereon continues to exemplify demure and fun in a dress. With the brightness of the colors, a less is more approach proves you don’t need lots of accessories to be a vamp(a stand-out beauty) at an event.

Let me leave you with some fashion tips. When you purchase your first leather jacket the smell of it will throw you off but don’t worry, this temporary scent wears off as you air dry it nightly. Your local dry cleaner becomes extremely important in preserving your leather investment which can last for generations to come. Proper care of pendant rings will involve the annual use of baking soda with a newspaper to gently rub away build-up or better yet invest in taking it to a jeweler for cleaning.