In the ever-evolving world of fashion, where trends come and go like waves on a beach, it takes a keen eye and a creative spirit to stand out from the crowd. Enter Afua Reid, a Ghanaian-born fashion stylist who effortlessly blends modern classics with trendy elements, creating a style that is uniquely her own.
We had the pleasure of sitting down with this style maven to delve into her background, signature style, and her thoughts on the importance of dressing up.
A passion for fashion
Afua's journey into the world of fashion began in her early years, with a childhood dream of participating in Miss World and donning glamorous dresses. Growing up in a household of five sisters, she quickly realized the power of personal style and the impact it can have on one's confidence. "I've been obsessed with fashion since I was 10," Afua recalls. "My sisters always wanted to look their best, and I loved helping them find their unique style. That's when I knew that personal styling was my calling."
When asked to describe her signature style, Afua confidently proclaims it to be a blend of confidence and individuality. Her penchant for modern classics shines through in her choice of timeless pieces, which she fearlessly pairs with trendy elements to keep her style constantly refreshed. "Fashion is all about self-expression," she asserts. "I believe that your style should speak volumes about who you are, without uttering a single word."
But what truly excites Afua about styling women? "The ability to empower and assist women in finding their personal style," she replies. "When a woman can openly express her feelings about her style, and I can be there to guide her and solve her style problems, that's when the magic happens."
For Afua, dressing up goes beyond the surface level of aesthetics. "Your style is an instant language," she explains. "It's a way for you to communicate who you are without uttering a single word. When you dress well, people are naturally drawn to you, and it opens doors to new connections and opportunities."
Effortlessly elevating your look
When it comes to instantly elevating a look, Afua has a secret weapon up her stylish sleeve: a pair of earrings. "Earrings have this incredible power to take a boring outfit from Z to A," she reveals. "They instantly draw attention to your face and add a touch of sophistication to any ensemble. It's a small accessory that can make a big impact."
Overcoming the heat
As the summer heat continues to rise, we couldn't resist asking Afua for her top three items to elevate your look in hot temperatures. Her recommendations? First and foremost, she swears by the luxurious feel of linen fabrics. "A two-piece linen set can make anyone look and feel elegant and rich, even on the hottest of days," she shares.
Next on her list is a silk scarf. "Not only does it add a pop of colour and a statement to any outfit, but it also serves as a versatile accessory that can be worn in multiple ways," Afua advises. Whether tied around the neck, draped over the shoulders, or wrapped around the head, a silk scarf adds that extra touch of glamour and flair.
Lastly, Afua emphasizes the importance of versatile shoes. "The right pair of shoes can transform any summer look," she enthuses. "A pair of embellished sandals can take a plain linen set or any simple dress to the next level. Don't be afraid to experiment with different styles and textures to find your perfect summer shoe."
To truly make a statement, Afua suggests adding a bold accessory to your summer ensemble. "Whether it's a colourful scarf, a pair of sunglasses that perfectly complements your face shape, or a wide-brimmed hat, a statement accessory can instantly elevate your look and make it memorable," she advises.
In conclusion ...
As our conversation with Afua Reid comes to a close, one thing becomes abundantly clear: personal style is a powerful tool that goes beyond mere fashion choices. It is a means of self-expression, empowerment, and connection. Afua's passion for helping women discover their unique style is an inspiration to all, reminding us that fashion is not just about clothes, but about embracing our individuality and confidently making our mark on the world, one stylish step at a time.
To learn more from Afua, join our July Dress-Up Challenge in The Clubhouse!