Wafrica’s kimono collections, which heavily feature African designs on the traditional Japanese garment, are fine examples of an artistic fusion of cultures done right.

While the designs retained the robe’s traditional shape, the fabric used in the creations are sourced primarily from Senegal and Nigeria, according to Nigerian site Konbini.

Mouangue stated that their creation is not an attempt to make a fashion statement nor create a profitable business commercial venture, but to start a conversation about cultural identities.

“In response to the argument that globalization may rob us of our cultural identity, a conversation between two ancient, strong and sophisticated identities: Japan and Africa,” Mouangue wrote on their website. “The conversation is about the beauty of weaving strands of our stories together.” Read more