Fashion: Sika Blending London Style with an African Aesthetic

Sika [Ghana]

[Image credits: Wonderland Collection – Sika]

I was strolling through Greenwich Market Wednesday afternoon trying to while up some time before a meeting and took the opportunity to pop into Cherry Picked Boutique, the home of Sika’s pretty dresses, to see if they had some of the new collection I had seen online. Greenwich Market is one of my favourite places in London and the place where I first came across the Sika label when whilst perusing the stalls a flash of, the now ubiquitous, Wax Cloth fabric caught my eye in one of the boutiques surrounding the perimeter. This was a few years back when Wax Cloth fabrics and fair trade were gaining in popularity, and with my curiosity roused I backtracked, entered the shop and was instantly enamored with the styles hanging on the racks.

Though based in London, Ghanaian designer Phyllis Taylor credits Ghana’s rich and diverse culture for inspiration; and her designs for her label Sika have traditionally sought to blend London style with an African aesthetic through the use of the bold and colourful cotton prints commonly used in Ghana and other parts of West Africa that have become synonymous with Africa. With an eye on responsible production fabrics are sourced from the local markets in Ghana; whilst all the garments are produced in Ghana by highly skilled local tailors and seamstresses. In doing so Sika helps to provide sustainable income-generation within the local community.

[Image credits: Gemini Collection – Sika]

Having had a look at the entire collection online I like the direction the label is taking, especially with the fabrics which include some beautifully printed silks. There is a more sophisticated, grownup feel to the latest collection entitled Gemini. The playful touches in the form of ruffles, bows and cute silhouettes are still there but the inclusion of more streamlined silhouettes add a sexier feel aided by the use of the silk fabrics and simpler prints. The collection is rounded off by a chic selection of coats and capes.

[Image credits: Gemini Collection – Sika]

The label has branched out include the Little Miss Sika collection for budding young fashionistas, a collaboration with Sole of Africa Sandals and more recently luxury home furnishings.

Additional Details:
Prices range from: £49 – £140
Sika delivers outside the UK contact Sika directly for further details
For further information visit: www.sikadesigns.co.uk
To purchase visit: boutique.sikadesigns.co.uk
Shop: 5a Greenwich Market, Greenwich, London, SE10 9HZ