Evolving while nodding to the past! From knee-length skirts to midi, then mini and now the revival of maxi skirts— remarkable!
Fashion has undergone a significant transformation from the structured, rule-bound ensembles of the 60s to the expressive, boundary-pushing styles of today.
Once dictated by strict guidelines and classic silhouettes, dressing has evolved into an art form where colors clash boldly, proportions defy convention, and self-expression takes center stage.
“Fashion is no longer uptight; it’s easygoing now. You can wear what you want, regardless of the occasion,” says Laurence Mwangi, a designer.
The journey from tailored elegance to fluid, unstructured designs mirrors societal shifts, blending tradition with modernity. From the rich, vibrant prints of the ’60s to today’s daring street wear, fashion in Kenya has become a dynamic canvas, reflecting identity, status, and creativity while embracing the resurgence of past trends with a contemporary twist. “We always go back in time. If you want to know where fashion is headed, you have to look at where it came from.”Waceke Bee, Fashion Content Creator, says.
The 60s marked Kenya’s transition into independence, and fashion reflected this newfound identity. Women embraced conservative yet elegant styles, often wearing knee-length dresses with A-line silhouettes, influenced by British colonial fashion. The iconic kitenge and kanga fabrics, rich in color and patterns, became everyday attire for women, symbolizing cultural pride.
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Western styles
Men’s fashion was influenced by Western styles, with tailored suits becoming a status symbol, especially among professionals and politicians. The youth, however, began experimenting with more casual styles, incorporating bell-bottom trousers and floral shirts, reflecting the global counterculture movement.
With the rise of African pride movements, the 1970s saw an increase in traditional African attire. Women adopted flowing dresses with elaborate embroidery, often pairing them with headscarves. The kitenge fabric became even more prominent, symbolizing status and cultural heritage.
Men’s fashion leaned towards colorful shirts with wide collars, often paired with high-waisted trousers. The afro hairstyle became a defining trend, representing black identity and resistance against colonial influences. Fashion became a medium for self-expression and political awareness.
At this point, bell bottoms were a whole movement for the youngies embraced by both genders.
Extravagance defined the ‘80s, with bold colors, shoulder pads, sequined outfits, and peplum dresses making strong statements. Men embraced double-breasted suits in daring hues while denim jackets became the go-to look for urban youth, heavily influenced by pop culture icons like Michael Jackson and Madonna.
Texture played a crucial role—satin, silk, and velvet symbolized affluence and power. Bell bottoms, now a staple for both genders, were a movement of their own, embraced by the younger generation.
“The ‘80s must have been beautiful—fashion rules started becoming vague, paving the way for the bold and diverse styles we see today,” says Wanjiru Rayen, a fashion student.
Music and film trends
The ‘90s saw the powerful influence of hip-hop culture on Kenyan youth. Baggy jeans, oversized t-shirts, and sneakers dominated urban fashion, inspired by global music and film trends. Meanwhile, traditional fabrics like leso and kitenge remained staples for formal occasions.
The color palette ranged from earthy tones to neon bright, and as Nairobi’s fashion scene grew, local designers began merging traditional elements with modern silhouettes.
The early 2000s brought increased exposure to international brands and celebrity-driven fashion. Skinny jeans, bodycon dresses, and designer accessories took over, reflecting the influence of Western pop culture. Yet, local designers continued to fuse traditional and contemporary aesthetics.
“The evolution of fashion is crazy—it feels like we have an entire handbook to work from. Trends provide a foundation, but there’s still so much to explore,” says Laureen Mweu, a stylist
Today, fashion is an eclectic blend of past and present, with vintage-inspired trends like ‘80s power suits, ‘90s baggy jeans, and traditional beadwork making their way into modern streetwear. The thrift culture (mitumba) is thriving, making fashion more accessible while promoting sustainability.
Textures have also evolved, with a preference for sustainable and locally sourced materials. The color symbolism remains strong—bright African prints represent cultural heritage, while minimalist styles and neutral tones appeal to the modern professional. Sustainability is now at the forefront of fashion conversations. Designers and consumers alike are becoming more conscious of ethical sourcing, fabric choices, and the environmental impact of clothing production.
“The future of fashion is about sustainability—being mindful of what you wear, choosing the right fabrics, and embracing recycling,” says Nana Aziz, a fashion consumer. “The key to the future of fashion is responsibility—being thoughtful in shopping, in creation, and consumption,” says Tausi Konde, a designer. As we move towards a more sustainable and inclusive future, fashion continues to be a powerful force—one that embraces its history while shaping the future.
