African fashion, from the beginning of time has been a rich tapestry of diverse cultures, traditions and innovation – a colourful way of human expression.
In recent years, a long-forgotten precious pearl has found its way back to this dynamic industry. The resurgence of cowrie shells in modern African fashion stands as a powerful symbol of heritage, wealth, and beauty.
However, cowries are not a newfound gemstone, they were used centuries ago as currency and ornaments across the African continent.
Today, we will explore the historical significance of cowries, their cultural value, and their current impact on contemporary African fashion.
The Historical Significance of Cowries
Centuries ago, cowries were not your everyday jewellery, they held immense cultural and economic value before the rise of gold and other foreign currencies.
Cowries were the acceptable currency of trade because of their association with status, wealth, and power. It didn’t stop there, African herbalists and traditional worshippers used cowries for religious practices because it was believed to ward off evil spirits or negative energy. This practice is more common amongst the Yorubas in Nigeria who use it as a means of communication with traditional divinities.
Cowrie shells have deep-rooted symbolism in African cultures because they represent femininity, prosperity, and fertility.
The expansion of trade routes led to the spread of cowries across Europe and some parts of the Middle East.
Resurgence in Modern African Fashion
In recent years, cowries have begun to make their way into contemporary African fashion and style. Designers and artisans are starting to incorporate cowries into clothing, hairstyling, accessories, and jewellery to create unique pieces that pay homage to ancient tradition while maintaining contemporary aesthetics.
Today, you’ll find more cowrie-adorned clothing, bags, and hair accessories in fashion stores and even in pop culture, music videos like Adekunle Gold’s “Party no dey Stop” display the richness of cowry shells in afro beats.
Incorporating cowries into modern fashion helps designers celebrate their heritage and find deeper connections to their roots.
Global Appeal of Cowries
Cowries transcends its traditional boundaries and is highly appreciated and adopted by fashion brands and enthusiasts around the world like Purple Fashion and La Carlia.
Cowries are now being worn by popular celebrities like Beyonce and Novi Brown.
The revival of cowrie shells in modern African fashion serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and timelessness of cultural symbols. Cowries have seamlessly transitioned from historical artefacts to contemporary fashion statements, uniting the past and present in a harmonious way.
As designers and consumers continue to appreciate the cultural and aesthetic value of cowrie-adorned pieces, these shells are set to remain an integral part of the evolving tapestry of African fashion for years to come.
This piece, Cowrie Shells & its Influence on Modern African Fashion, was originally published in Modaculture Digital Sept-Oct 2023. Go HERE to view it.
