Dashikis are very colorful, loose-fitting garments that covers the upper half of the body. They have originated in Africa and are widely recognized as an “African” look. Dashikis became very popular in the 1960’s when there was a struggle for equality among races here in the United States. Sometimes they were even worn as protest against society’s disrespect for African Americans. If we can take a minute to analyze, they were very bright as opposed to being drab. They were also worn loose instead of fitted. Lastly, instead of being tucked in, they were worn outside. They were even worn on occasions where a suit and tie would’ve been expected. Today, dashikis have become an underground trends for African Americans and it is definitely a trend that is a force to be reckoned with. Here are a series of photos where a Dashiki is worn by Jibreel Jalloh.
Dashiki: Gift from Paris
Pants: Nudie Jeans
Shoes: Vittorio Russo
Satchel: Cole Haan
1. What country are you from?
Sierra Leone (Freetown)
2. What inspires you to wear a Dashiki?
Pride in my ancestry.
3. What does a Dashiki represent to you?
Beauty in African culture
4. How many do you own?
Two. Both were gifts.
5. Do you believe Dashiki’s redefines male fashion?
Nope. But there seems to be a peak in interest in African clothing and styles.