Inspiration Behind African Lioness Hoodies

Rhoda Irechukwu • March 11, 2024

April 14, 2022

A woman wearing sunglasses and a red hoodie is reading a newspaper.

Hoodie sweatshirts or tracksuits are universal outfits these days. They are sports or athletic wear, but they are also worn at leisure where I believe the word athleisure was coined.


Sweatshirts and pants or tracksuits have come a long way in fashion so that they are designed in different ways and with different embellishments on them. They have logos and other graphic designs on them that distinguish them from others.


Tracksuits are also of different weights. Some are light, for not so cold weather and some are pretty heavy for deep winter seasons. But what distinguished our brand from others is the story behind it’s inspiration which I’m about to share with you in this article.


Our African Lioness Hoodies tracksuit was born out of my personal experiences as an African woman in the diaspora. I want to share some of the characteristics of an African woman in my opinion:


She is determined

She is intentional

She is focused

She is resilient

She is caring

She is loving

She is patient

She is unstoppable

She is a leader

She is a community builder

She is a homemaker

She is a mother

She is a wife

She is a sister

She is a friend


What are the characteristics of a Lioness?


An icon of bold and fierce beauty yet gentle and nurturing

A true queen in her paradise

Extremely independent and ambitious

Empowering and caring for others

Plays a strategic role in her pride along with her king

She is fearless

A fighter for a just cause


When you merge these characteristics together, you have a formidable, wise and strong woman known as an African Lioness. I believe I have these qualities. So when I was designing this piece, I was speaking to myself, projecting my attributes, encouraging myself, having come a long way, having fallen and picked myself up many times, having made giant decisions and having achieved tremendous milestones in life so far with little or no support from anyone, I can rightly say that I am an African Lioness.


I want to use my brand to not only tell my story but also to encourage every woman who has been through so much and is still standing. Every woman is a lioness. If you look at the African Lioness artwork on this apparel, you will notice that her hair is the map of Africa depicting her heritage, the lion on her head depicts strength, and the rest of her body depicts beauty.



timeless-elegance-traditional-beaded-shoulder-cape-for-every-wedding-bride
By Rhoda Irechukwu June 10, 2025
Whether you are preparing for a grand church wedding or an intimate outdoor ceremony, incorporating a wedding shoulder cape into your ensemble can elevate your bridal look.
3D Lace Fabric
By Rhoda Irechukwu June 5, 2025
Find premium 3D Lace Fabric with exquisite designs & custom options. Get sustainable, high-quality materials delivered globally. Start your order now!
Detroit Lions Men's T-Shirts
By Rhoda Irechukwu May 19, 2025
Show your Detroit Lions pride with top-rated men's t-shirts at just $13.99! Perfect for game days or everyday wear. Affordable, stylish, and made for die-hard fans!
By Cain Palmer May 12, 2025
Ankara headwraps are more than just accessories; they’re powerful displays of cultural pride, individuality, and style. These authentic African wraps add bold flair to any outfit. From Detroit to Dearborn, Michigan women are falling in love with these versatile wraps for their elegance, functionality, and ability to transform any look. Whether for a formal event or casual day out, Ankara headwraps are a stunning way to elevate your style. For those who want to make Ankara headwraps a staple in their wardrobe, Rho & Nya’s collection offers high-quality, vibrant options to suit every taste. Here’s how to incorporate these stunning wraps into your daily style and why they’re a must-have accessory. Cultural Roots with a Modern Twist Ankara fabrics are renowned for their bold designs and deep cultural meaning. Historically, headwraps symbolized identity, status, and celebration in African traditions. Today, they continue to carry cultural significance while also becoming a global fashion statement. These vibrant wraps adapt seamlessly to various occasions, offering elegance and practicality. Whether you’re meeting friends for coffee or attending a glamorous event, an Ankara headwrap can be the perfect finishing touch. They also serve as a practical solution for Michigan’s unpredictable weather, offering protection and flair year-round. What Makes Rho & Nya’s Ankara Headwraps Special Rho & Nya’s Ankara headwraps stand out for their quality and design. Here’s what makes them exceptional: Premium Materials Made with 100% Ankara cotton, these wraps are soft, breathable, and durable. The fabric maintains its vibrancy and texture, keeping your look flawless from morning to night. Distinct Patterns From bold geometric designs to nature-inspired prints, each headwrap is a masterpiece. Whether your style leans toward dramatic or understated, there’s something for everyone. Versatile Sizes The variety of sizes allows for endless styling possibilities: Spray (13" x 90") Hands (22.5" x 62") Fish (13" x 88") Patches (16" x 72") Whether you prefer intricate, voluminous wraps or sleek and simple styles, these dimensions make it easy to customize your look. How to Style Your Ankara Headwrap One of the most appealing aspects of Ankara headwraps is their versatility. Here are some style ideas for different settings: Casual Basics A colorful wrap paired with a neutral outfit, like jeans and a plain top, instantly adds a vibrant touch. Opt for a quick turban style to elevate a low-key look. Formal Elegance For weddings or formal events, choose wraps in jewel tones or metallic designs. Pair them with a sleek dress or tailored jumpsuit, and accessorize with bold earrings for extra impact. Professional Polished Keep it work-friendly by selecting subtle designs or neutral tones. Worn with a blazer and fitted trousers or a pencil skirt, an Ankara headwrap adds a personal yet sophisticated twist to office attire. Hair Protection Beyond style, Ankara headwraps are a practical way to protect your hair from harsh weather or maintain braided, natural, or freshly styled hair. Tips for Beginners If you’re new to headwraps, the idea of styling them may feel intimidating. Follow these tips to get started with ease: Secure Your Base Tie your hair into a bun or ponytail for a sturdy foundation. Practice Wrap Styles Experiment with turbans, bows, or crowns to find what suits you best. Keep It Secure Use pins or tuck loose ends neatly to ensure your wrap stays in place. Create Outfit Balance Pair bold wraps with simple outfits and neutral wraps with patterned clothing for a harmonious look. Why Michigan Loves Ankara Headwraps Across Michigan, from the trendy streets of Ann Arbor to bustling neighbourhoods in Detroit, Ankara headwraps are becoming a fashion favourite. Their combination of cultural expression, practicality, and stunning design makes them a beloved accessory for women who want to stand out. By shopping at Rho & Nya , you’re not only investing in a stylish piece but also supporting a brand that values tradition and quality. Each wrap tells a story, crafted with care to celebrate the beauty and heritage of African culture. Shop Your Perfect Wrap Ankara headwraps are a cultural and creative fashion statement that suits any occasion. Whether you’re looking to make your daily outfit pop or bring tradition into a formal look, these wraps provide unlimited potential for self-expression. Explore Rho & Nya’s collection to discover high-quality wraps in a variety of patterns, sizes, and styles. It’s the perfect time to express your individuality, honor your heritage, and transform your wardrobe with vibrant Ankara headwraps!
African Unisex Apparel
By Rhoda Irechukwu May 6, 2025
Break away from fast fashion with Rho & Nya’s ethical unisex clothing. Sustainability, cultural authenticity, and premium craftsmanship meet in every piece.
Men's fashion accessories
By Rhoda Irechukwu April 28, 2025
The 2025 fashion trend has struck a new leaf. Men's fashion style goes with African fashion, unapologetic heritage, bold prints, and eye-searing colors. Read more!
By Rhoda Irechukwu April 21, 2025
Fashion is not only about appearance but also about storytelling and respect for identity. That's particularly true for Michigan in 2025, where traditional African attire is making waves. From colorful Ankara prints to classy Kente cloth, these pieces of clothing are revolutionizing Michigan fashion. The trend is a mix of respect for culture, creativity, and respect for sustainability and diversity. Why Traditional African Clothing Matters African traditional wear has profound cultural meaning. Every color and pattern is significant, worn as a badge of honor and heritage. Kente cloth, for example, symbolizes tradition and royalty, Ankara print symbolizes new, confident African fashion. Michigan communities have adopted these wearings for fashion and cultural purposes. Celebrations and festivals in Lansing and Detroit have also employed these fashion and storytelling. The clothes help people remember heritage, too, guarantee individuals celebrate African culture, which guarantees clothing becomes an experience-filled life. Everyday Adaptations of Tradition One of the characteristics of 2025 is how African-inspired fashion is being reimagined for daily life. Fashion enthusiasts such as Rho & Nya are redoing classic designs, merging ancient patterns with modern ones to fit the pace of modern living. Ankara blazers, maxi dresses, and headwraps are a few ways in which the traditional fabrics are being refurbished to be dressed into an office or a daily wardrobe. Statement accessories and colorful handbags are some of the accessories that also provide an opportunity for one to incorporate pieces of culture into their wardrobe. There are new fabrics coming into use as well. Designers are creating functional products, including sweat-wicking or UV-protective Kente wear, such that African prints are not only beautiful but also functional. Emphasis on Sustainability Sustainability is currently the height of fashion, and classic African clothing is well positioned to tap into this movement. The impermanence and timelessness of these garments are ideal for slow fashion, a process that values timelessness and ethical production. Michigan's green towns, particularly Grand Rapids and Ann Arbor cities, are pioneering eco-African fashion-inspired clothing. Rho & Nya fashion shops combine environmentally green materials, reused fabrics, and equitable working conditions to create low environmental stress clothing while keeping with cultural ingenuity. Tutorials that teach individuals how to design or redesign their own fashion African-inspired outfits are becoming highly popular, allowing individuals a practical hands-on session while encouraging sustainability. Embracing Inclusivity in Michigan African styles have come along with a culture of inclusivity throughout Michigan. The attire speaks of diversity and oneness, leaving space to celebrate diverse identities and cultures. Activities such as African Fashion Week Detroit give African models and designers an avenue to exhibit their skill as well as teach people about craftsmanship and culture. Social media platforms also facilitate the phenomenon, as manufacturers offer new ideas on dressing up African attire into daily wear, putting cultures together without bias. This growing representation is a clarion call to all from all directions to experiment and embrace African-infused trends. It is not fashion; it is closing knowledge and connection gaps. Michigan's Growing Love for African Fashion Across the state, African-inspired fashion has been extremely popular. In the business environment, social gatherings, or on university campuses, this brightly appearing clothing is ubiquitous. Ankara ties and Kente gowns are trendy, while street fashion such as African-print hoodies or dresses attracts the attention of young people, particularly in such environments as the University of Michigan. Pop-ups, boutiques, and virtual boutiques are bringing these looks within reach. Social media has been among the primary movers behind the movement, as businesses like Rho & Nya leverage platforms like Instagram to connect style-focused Michiganders who are ready to be a part of it. Tradition Meets Tomorrow African traditional attire has come to be something so much bigger than just occasion wear. It's become an even bigger movement honoring the past but reaching forward to the future. The state of Michigan and its people are at the forefront, taking African fashion to higher levels of creativity, sustainability, and inclusivity. Whether you’re drawn to bold textiles, sustainable craftsmanship, or the meaningful stories behind these garments, African-inspired fashion is here to stay. Explore this movement and make a statement with designs from talented creators like Rho & Nya, who are blending heritage with modern-day brilliance.
By Rhoda Irechukwu April 14, 2025
African kids accessories, such as, bring back school & what's current to present the best of both worlds. From the AL Unisex Kids Wristband to the Sea Snails Ankara Hair Bonnet.
American Fashion
By Cain Palmer April 8, 2025
Learn how 10 iconic american brands transformed global fashion, from denim to luxury, with rho & nya leading the way in modern innovation. Read more!
Michigan Men's Fashion Accessories
By Rhoda Irechukwu March 24, 2025
Michigan men's fashion redefined! Explore 10 essential accessories to transform your wardrobe with functional and stylish must-haves. Read more about this!
More Posts