“I don’t actually have a style, I guess dramatic prints and a pair of sunglasses are my go to look.”

Arabang Ramakau

Meet my mom, Arabang who is one my fashion style inspirations. Bold prints play a major role in her overall style aesthetic along with a minimal colour palette which matches her matte lipstick choice.

She enjoys bohemian, geometric and floral prints on her blouses, t-shirts, accessories and especially bubble pants with small strings around her ankles.  Although her style is boho inspired, she continues to bring a sense of chic and elegance to her overall look.

Usually her fashion piece statements are exaggerated by her necklaces, earrings and colourful rings moreover, this has to be one of my favourite fashion lessons I have learnt from her. Her lounge wear looks are still print based and colour co-ordinated which resembles a few 60’s and 70’s looks. These looks are still glamorous enough for the runway, paired with nude high heeled boots, bold lipstick colour and a pair of cat eyed sunglasses to finish the overall look.

Although our styles are similar based on our colour choices, there are different textures and silhouettes we find interesting. My favourite textures are more smooth, silky and a bit scratchy while she enjoys scratchy wool winter coats. Scratchy black winter coats are also one of my fashion lessons inspired by her choice of pairing them with deep blue denim jeans, brown thigh high boots creating an edgy yet clean look.

My lovely mom continues to push the boundaries through the use of bold prints which does reference her inner child, “as long as you feel good in it, wear it. If it suits your body shape, wear it.” These are the words she goes by for her fashion and style inspirations.

Written by Lebohang Ramakau