Search
Close this search box.
Search
Close this search box.

style tips

AFROCENTRIC FALL STYLE GUIDE FOR MEN: STAY STYLISH THIS SEASON

welcome to Ekpo’s Afrocentric Fall style guide. Fall is upon us, and it’s time to refresh your wardrobe with some essential pieces that not only keep you warm but also showcase your unique style. If you’re looking to maintain an Afro-centric vibe while staying on top of the latest fashion trends, we’ve got you covered. Here are some staples that every Afrocentric guy should have in his wardrobe this fall. Linen Shirts: Comfort Meets Style Linen shirts are a must-have for the Afro-centric fall season style. These shirts are not just for summer; they’re perfect for layering in the cooler months too. The breathable fabric ensures you stay comfortable whether you’re at a casual gathering or a more formal event. Pair a crisp white linen shirt with wide-leg pants for an effortlessly stylish look that exudes confidence. Don’t be afraid to play with colors and patterns – think earthy tones and bold prints to make a statement. Wide Leg Pants: Embrace the Volume Wide leg pants are making a comeback, and they’re an excellent choice for men’s fall season style. These pants offer a relaxed fit that’s both comfortable and stylish. They can be dressed up with a fitted blazer for a sophisticated look or dressed down with a simple tee for a more casual vibe. For an Afro-centric twist, choose pants in rich, warm colors like deep browns, burnt oranges, or olive greens. These hues not only reflect the autumnal palette but also add a touch of cultural flair to your ensemble. Mules: The Perfect Blend of Fashion and Function Mules are the footwear you didn’t know you needed until now. These slip-on shoes are perfect for the fall season, offering a blend of comfort and style that’s hard to beat. They’re versatile enough to be paired with everything from jeans to wide-leg pants. For an Afro-centric edge, opt for mules made from textured materials like suede or leather, and look for designs that incorporate traditional patterns or beadwork. These details add a unique touch to your outfit, making you stand out in the best way possible. Jorts: A Bold Choice for Fall Yes, you read that right – jorts are still in play this fall. These jean shorts are perfect for those warmer fall days when you want to keep things casual yet stylish. Pair them with a linen shirt and mules for an easy-going look that’s both comfortable and trendy. To keep things Afro-centric, choose jorts with unique embellishments or patches that reflect African artistry. This not only adds a personal touch to your outfit but also celebrates your heritage in a modern way. Dashiki Tops: A Cultural Staple No Afro-centric wardrobe is complete without a dashiki top. These vibrant, colorful shirts are perfect for adding a cultural touch to your fall fashion. Dashiki tops are versatile enough to be worn with jeans, wide-leg pants, or even layered under a blazer for a more polished look. The intricate patterns and bold colors make a strong statement, ensuring you stand out wherever you go. Plus, they’re incredibly comfortable, making them a great choice for any fall activity. Staying stylish this fall doesn’t mean you have to abandon your Afro-centric roots. By incorporating these key pieces into your wardrobe, you can create a look that’s both fashionable and culturally rich. Remember, the key to our Afrocentric Fall style guide is confidence – wear these pieces with pride and let your heritage shine through.

AFROCENTRIC FALL STYLE GUIDE FOR MEN: STAY STYLISH THIS SEASON Read More »

YOU NEED TO GET THESE 5 ITEMS THIS SUMMER

Things are really starting to heat up, and it doesn’t help that summer is around the corner, or does it? well, at the very least, it helps if you are prepared for it. we’re not here today to help you prepare for things “heating up” as it were (that’s not on the agenda today, maybe some other time) what is on the agenda is to get you ready for summer style wise. now, if you think getting your wardrobe ready for summer is not important, i hate to break it to you but it is. not only does getting your wardrobe ready for a particular weather season help with your comfort, health, functionality, organization, and economic efficiency it also helps boost your mental well-being. Being dressed appropriately for the season can boost your mood and confidence. Feeling good in your clothes contributes positively to your overall well-being and mental health. so consider these before you dismiss the need to consider your wardrobe. Now, without any further delay, let’s dive straight to it Here’s a list of things We At EKPO think You Might need this summer: (P.S: click links to shop directly from amazon) Shorts/jorts *Excellent casual piece of menswear* Get yourself some shorts this summer instead of the common place trousers. Shorts just found their identity in men’s fashion recently, and we believe there is a place for them, and it’s just important you know how to wear them.  Jorts have also grown in popularity in recent years, and has been spotted on a number of style icons, both domestically and abroad. These Y2K Blue Denim Shorts Summer Casual Loose Straight Leg Unisex Baggy Jeans Shorts/Jorts from Pohadon are too good to miss, and you should definitely consider getting yourself a pair at For a more graceful, classy look, you definitely want shorts that end above the knee. Let the shorts be proportional to your thighs, not too tight. And just avoid long shorts. a good example are the ever green 505 Levi’s that you can currently get at sweet limited deal off with a 45% off Dressier shorts will most often come with turn-ups or cuffs, which can be a catchy little detail when wearing shorts. Chinos are always good, and they come in really good, almost bright colors. these 100% cotton amazon essential shorts below are best sellers and go for a reasonable price Shorts Rule of thumb: Pay attention to the fit and your physique. If you have long, slim legs, choose slim cut shorts that end above the knee for a great look.  Hats Hats are definitely in this summer and you should have a couple in your wardrobe come june. we’ve put together a couple of great selection to choose from, but one thing you should consider when picking out hats for the summer, is how well it complement the rest of your wardrobe. however, that shouldn’t limit you or restrict you to just generic choices An example is the sun hat with neck flap, which, although a bit unconventional it could make as a great statement piece and is a very functional for really sunny days. Baseball hats and trucker hats are great options as well and are extremely versatile so you should definitely have either in your selection. Carhartt Men’s Rugged Professional Series Canvas Mesh-Back Cap is definitely is a best seller and is definitely worth a must-have this summer the Under Armour is also a great pick, and comes in several colorways. Accessories  A gentleman’s wardrobe is indeed a  work of art and reflects a lot, and this isn’t possible without a good number of accessories.  The Sturdy Cuban Link Chains bracelet below goes for a very reasonable price and is a very clean look. You shouldn’t just go around looking bland in that jacket, shirt, bag, or whatever, and most importantly, in your blazer. Accessorize yourself this summer! you don’t have to go overboard with it, a couple of rings, a chain, a bracelet etc would get the job done. we have a selection of great accessories to pick from to get you summer ready. if you’re going for a grunge aesthetic, the HZMAN Genuine Leather Tree of life Bracelet is your best bet. Cuban Link Chain is a great option for a neck piece, stylish, clean and smart And last but not least-Vintage Silver Punk Rings Set for Men is a go-to for finger accessories at a very reasonable price. Rubber mules this go-to summer footwear is a must-have this season. not only are they great for comfort, breathability, water resistance (when you decide to hit the pool side), and easy to clean affordability and versatility are also factors to consider. Rubber mules are lightweight and compact, making them easy to pack for summer vacations. They don’t take up much space in your luggage and are perfect for various summer destinations. mules and slips on should definitely be in your rotation. The Damyuan Clogs are lightweight, quick drying and great for the waterside. shop now check it out Bowling shirts Bowling shirts are typically designed to be unisex, making them a great option for anyone looking to add a versatile and stylish piece to their summer wardrobe. Their adaptable design can suit various body types and fashion preferences. On cooler summer evenings or in air-conditioned environments, bowling shirts can be easily layered over a t-shirt or tank top. This adds an extra element of style and practicality, allowing you to adjust to changing temperatures. shop this look now there you have it folks, As the sun shines brighter and the days grow longer, it’s the perfect time to refresh your wardrobe with summer essentials that blend style and comfort. safe! ekpo.com.ng

YOU NEED TO GET THESE 5 ITEMS THIS SUMMER Read More »

A GUIDE TO MASTERING PLAIN AND PATTERN ENGLISH STYLES FOR MEN

Guys, let’s face it, when it comes to fashion, we sometimes prefer the path of least resistance. But fear not, I’m here to make your wardrobe decisions a breeze, we’re delving into the captivating realm of plain and pattern English styles for men. So, buckle up, gentlemen, and let’s embark on this stylish journey together Plain Two-Piece: Keep It Classic, Keep It Cool Let’s kick things off with an effortless classic: the plain-on-plain monochrome look. There’s something timeless and undeniably cool about slipping into a well-tailored two-piece suit or a sharp ensemble of matching trousers and a shirt. Brands like “Fear of God” and “Ajabeng” excel at crafting sleek, minimalist pieces that embody understated sophistication. Embracing the plain two-piece not only simplifies your morning routine but also ensures you’ll always look put-together whether you’re heading to the office or a night out on the town. Plain on Pattern: Strike the Perfect Balance Now, let’s add a twist to the mix – plain top on patterned pants or shorts. It’s a combo that never fails to impress, as long as you strike the right balance. Opt for a laid-back plain top, whether it’s a crisp white shirt, a relaxed polo, or a cozy sweater, paired with eye-catching bottoms. From subtle pinstripes to bold floral prints, the options for patterned pants and shorts are endless. The key is to ensure the patterns complement each other without overwhelming the overall look. Think of your plain top as the calm anchor that grounds the outfit, while the patterned bottoms inject personality and flair. Pattern Outerwear: Make a Statement Who says the fun has to stop at the core of your outfit? Let your outerwear do the talking with a bold patterned piece. Whether it’s a flashy jacket, a snazzy hoodie, or a dapper blazer, don’t shy away from making a statement. Patterned outerwear serves as the perfect opportunity to showcase your individual style and inject a dose of personality into your ensemble. Channel your inner trendsetter by experimenting with unconventional prints, unexpected color combinations, and unique silhouettes. Remember, confidence is key – own your outerwear with pride, and watch heads turn wherever you go. Patterned Tie: Elevate Your Plain Ensemble Time to up your tie game! Add a dash of flair to your plain top by incorporating a patterned tie. Not only will it make you stand out from the crowd, but you’re also guaranteed to receive a flurry of compliments. The beauty of a patterned tie lies in its ability to instantly elevate even the most basic of outfits. Whether you’re attending a formal event or a casual gathering, a well-chosen tie can serve as the perfect conversation starter and a reflection of your unique personality. From classic stripes to playful polka dots, don’t be afraid to let your tie do the talking. Patterned Accessories: The Devil’s in the Details Let’s not forget about the little things that pack a big punch; accessories! Spice up your outfit with patterned scarves, socks, belts, or even shoes. It’s these small touches that take your style from ordinary to extraordinary, so don’t hold back on the pattern play. Whether you’re rocking a bold paisley pocket square or a pair of quirky argyle socks, accessories offer endless opportunities for self-expression and creativity. Experiment with different textures, colors, and patterns to add depth and dimension to your look. Remember, the devil’s in the details – so embrace the power of patterned accessories and watch your style soar to new heights. Combine Complementary Patterns: Be Bold, Not Blind Last but not least, dare to combine complementary patterns with finesse. The key here is to tread carefully, ensuring your ensemble doesn’t scream “color blind.” With a bit of experimentation and an eye for cohesion, you’ll master the art of mixing and matching patterns. Start by selecting patterns that share similar color palettes or themes, ensuring they complement rather than clash with each other. Whether you’re layering a striped shirt under a checkered blazer or pairing a floral tie with a geometric pocket square, the possibilities are endless. Remember, confidence is your greatest accessory, so wear your mixed patterns with pride and let your style shine. So there you have it, gents—a comprehensive guide to navigating the intricate world of plain and pattern English styles for men. these tips are sure to elevate your sartorial game. Remember, confidence is the ultimate accessory – wear it proudly, and own your unique sense of style!

A GUIDE TO MASTERING PLAIN AND PATTERN ENGLISH STYLES FOR MEN Read More »

5 SURE TIPS TO GET YOU READY FOR SUMMER 2023

summer 2023 is upon us it officially begins in June which is less than a month from now. Spring is generally believed to be the best time of the year for many reasons. but your summer could be just as lit and so much more if you prepare for it. have no fear, because Ekpo is back with 5 sure tips to get you ready for summer 2023. from footwear to outfit options to skincare there’s enough to take into consideration. so let’s get into it 5 tips to get you ready for summer. SWAP THE JEANS You’ve been rocking jeans all winter and spring how about trying something different this summer? besides, denim is one of the heaviest fabrics they’re not bad for summer style but there are way more breathable options to choose from. this summer you can try out light weight cotton, wool and even linen pants instead they are very comfortable can be worn for a long period of time (which is great for long working hours) and can be styled in a number of ways for casual and formal settings. they are great for monochromatic looks, and can be tailored to your specifications. denim cotton pants and wide leg denim are also options to consider for the denim lovers who can’t let it go. cargo pants are also still very much in style light cotton cargo pants would also be a great summer outfit choice. TRY ONE PIECE-GARMENTS During winter and early spring layering was the strong points of most outfits great layering always elevates any ensemble. but that will not be as possible during summer except in cases of light cotton sweaters and sweater vests over button-up shirts. another option to explore is one-piece or two piece set garments. this could range from traditional outfits like kaftans and senators to suits/jump suits and wrap dresses for ladies. they are all stylish summer compatible options. USE SUNSCREEN I promise you we cannot stress this enough you might have heard this before but we still had to include it in this list. because as much as a lot more Africans are beginning to embrace the need for sunscreen a good number still think it isn’t necessary. applying sun screen will keep your skin from aging, drying and will retain glow. the best time to apply sunscreen is 30mins before you head out and for sensitive skin, use specific suncreen for your skin type. gel sun screen generally have the best results. LOW RISE SHOES Foot wear is one of the areas you can really be experimental during summer time. however, low rise shoes are the most appropriate for summer and there a whole range to choose from loafers and sneakers for dressing up Birken stocks and huaraches for dressing down and more casual ocassions. PROTECT YOUR EYES Turns out the skin around your eyes tend to be really sensitive constant exposure could really damage them. soinstead of constantly squinting why not get yourself a pair of shades. so there you have it 5 tips to get you ready for summer are you looking forward to summer 2023?

5 SURE TIPS TO GET YOU READY FOR SUMMER 2023 Read More »

8 FOOTWEAR ESSENTIALS FOR EVERY MAN IN 2023

Look no further for your style tips, Ekpo is back with 8 footwear essentials for every man in 2023. are you a stylish guy looking to have a solid footwear Rotation? or maybe you’re not really into fashion and you just need some tips on the right shoes to shop for? we’ve got you covered. the whole point of any wardrobe essentials list is to have the fundamental pieces to ensure you’re not not caught lacking in any type of setting. from casual, to official, to the great outdoors. you should come correct. so let’s dive straight in, 8 footwear essentials for every man in 2023. 1. TRAINERS You need to have a pair of trainers bro. it might seem like a no brainer but sometimes your work outfit priorities, end up overshadowing everything else and you really don’t want to be that guy that shows up to a link up with friends in some oxfords. so get yourself some trainers. the Adidas Stan smith trainers have stood the test of time, so it’s a great option. the puma CA classic pro, and converse trainers are other great choices. just get something comfortable within your price range. 2. LOAFERS This particular item can get over looked sometimes. you could feel like having a pair of lace up formal shoes already cover it. but loafers are way more versatile and utilitarian. you can style them in a number of ways. with traditional attrie, formal, semi-formal and casual. we’ve seen style icon, Tyler the creator rock loafers with socks and shorts severally. so it’s really up to how willing you are to experiment. almost any online store would have a decent range of options to select from. you could also have a pair made at the shoemakers. don’t sleep on loafers this year. 3. TECHNICAL SLIDES Why wear a regular pair of slides when you could wear technical slides? tech slides have become increasingly popular in recent years with NBDA leading the way in that space. tech slides are perfect for cozy indoor and outdoor settings. they are equally stylish as they are comfortable. you can find a good pair online or in a physical store. Birkin stocks are also a great option in place of technical slides. 4. SNEAKERS A solid pair of sneakers can really elevate your outfit. trainers are great and all for a toned down and very minimalist look. but you need to also be able to out the Jordan’s and Nikes when the need arises. depending on your preference, there’s a good range to pick from. A good option is the New balance Dad shoe that has been somewhat of a trend ever since Balenciaga released the Triple S Sneaker. other brands like Sketchers and reebok have great Dad shoe and sneaker offerings. and of course, the air Jordan’s are great options as well. 5. LEATHER SLIPPERS As great as casual foot-ware is nothing beats the leather slippers and Traditional outift combo. as an African guy a good pair of leather slippers should not be overlooked in your shoe rack selection. you might have to pull out those bad boys for an Owmabe you never know. 6. RUBBER SLIDES You’re definietly going to need rubber slides for your pool side and beach outings they’re perfect for the waterside and can afford to get wet unlike the technical slides and Birkin stocks. it’s also great for quick neighborhood runs where they might possibly get dirty and dusty and that wouldn’t be a problem because they’re easy to clean. 7. FORMAL SHOES Of course, a footwear essentials list is in-complete without formal wear. Brogues, monk straps, oxfords and even Dr martens, all suffice as formal footwear this is a must have for every guy regardless of your occupation. the time will certainly come for formal wear. if you like the classics, the oxford and brogues are just right for you. or you could decide to switch it up with the contemporary Dr martens for a change. what ever makes you most comfortable and confident in your formal wear. 8. BOOTS You’re completley set at this point. you can be confident that your shoe game is on fleek. dessert boots, Chelsea boots, and leather boots are examples of boot options. they’re several contemporary leather and rubber boot designs to choose from. there’s the wellington boot, heeled Chelsea boots, chunky soles, Dr. martens lace up leather boots etc. all depends on your style Preferenceand what you feel confident in. (can’t stress that last point enough) that being said it’s important that you prioritize comfort and quality in your footwear essentials. it’s actually all part of sustainability if you think about it. we don’t really use some pieces because after we buy them we find out that we are not comfortable in them or it’s not great quality. then we end up abandoning it and having to get another one. so shop wisely don’t buy stuff you won’t use and don’t buy stuff you’re not comfortable in.

8 FOOTWEAR ESSENTIALS FOR EVERY MAN IN 2023 Read More »

5 MENSWEAR TRENDS TO GET YOU SUMMER-READY

here are 5 menswear trends to get you summer ready. Summer is around the corner, and you know what that means: time to update your style. From Wide-leg pants to soft pastels, we at EKPO have put together 5 updated easy Menswear trends from the catwalks to get you summer-ready. 1. PASTELS “Finna Be Looking like the rainbow this summer.” its all about the softer shade this summer, from coral pink to bright yellow as spotted on your favourite style-stars and seen on the runway. it all depends on the shade that best suits you & how you decide to style em’. 2. CONVERTIBLE KICKS: “What We like to refer to as Two-in-One Shoes” *Made very popular by Gucci* this is another big trend that’s already visible amongst style stars and influencers, and we are so sure this trend will take over the summer holiday. No worries no need to break the bank to catch in on this trend several main-stream street brands like Asos, GAFA sandals and Maliko, offer a range of styles at affordable prices. 3.SUNGLASSES *Go Big Or Go Home* Bigger, bolder, and wider eye catching patterns in tinted lenses are all popping right now when it comes to sunglasses trends for summer 17, (which is a major switch from last summer’s mirrored lenses trend). 4. BUM BAGS  *Def! The Hottest menswear accessory right now*  Bum bags are unarguably the hottest accessory right now, and we at EKPO are positive this trend will equally take over the summer. 5.GREY HAIR *Most popular men’s hairstyle right now* Dyed grey hair, amongst the several men’s hairstyle trends, is what’s popping right now, This trend has already been adopted by top stars like Wizkid and several influencers. its safe to try this if you need to switch up for summer THANKS FOR STOPING BY, AND DON’T FORGET YOUR COMMENTS AND CONTRIBUTION, MEAN ALOT TO US AT EKPO.

5 MENSWEAR TRENDS TO GET YOU SUMMER-READY Read More »

TIPS FOR GETTING STREETSTYLE SNAPPED AT FASHION WEEK

Lagos Fashion and Design Week is officially upon us once again,from the 25th-28th October, Lagos will play host to all the fashion lovers/enthusiasts under one roof to view the latest Spring/Summer 2018 collection from our Nigerian designers #LFDW. Another thing that gets us excited here is all the #streetstyle shots we get to see during the 4-day LFDW fashion takeover,in anticipation of that we decided to give you easy tips to get you streetstyle snapped at Fashion Week ARRIVE ON TIME: If the show starts for 4:00 arrive by 3:00, its really simple make sure you arrive atleast an hour or an hour thirty minuets( in the day time) before the runway shows kick off because thats when the streets will be buzzing with all the streetstyle activities. Once the show kicks off barely will you meet people engaging in streetstyle till after the runway shows. Another reason to arrive on time is so you don’t show up when the celebrities are,because you and your outfits will be overlooked if WIZKID or TOKE MAKINWA are in the building, its simple logic,expect you are more famous than them then this can be overlooked in your situation but if not, You better arrive in time! DRESS FOR YOURSELF! its fashion week…YES! Your trying to stand out and get noticed…..YES! but the problem here is that a lot of people miss it because they are trying too hard with the outfits and all the things going on that the outfit becomes distasteful and this can almost show if you don’t own the look. in this case we advice you dress according to your style and own every part of that look because its natural for a photographer to go for an individual whose owning his/her look compared to someone who has all the designers on but still doesn’t seem be well put. get it ? – in summarisation be comfortable in your own look and if you must step outside your comfort zone make sure to own the whole 9 GET A FASHION WEEK PARTNER just like the saying goes “Two heads are better than one”, well thats the same in this fashion situation. We can all agree to an extent it gets boring doing stuff by yourself,so why not get a fashion week partner in crime – it just makes the fashion week stress more fun. get ready together, get thoughts on your outfits together, arrive together and if no streetsyle photographer decides to snap you, well let your fashion week partner get you all the shots you need. Afterall what are friends for ? and also the best streetstyle shots are the ones that are partnered up #PROTIP Outfits………..checkDigital Cam,laptops( for content curators),power banks/chargers……..checkFashion week partner………..checkAre we on time?……check check check Now we have all this together, one last thing! Make Sure You Walk the LFDW streets like its your runway and make sure to own it like Pro. Thanks for stopping by Photography By HENRI UDUKU

TIPS FOR GETTING STREETSTYLE SNAPPED AT FASHION WEEK Read More »