Across the African diaspora, fashion has always been more than aesthetics. We have made rags into riches, transformed struggle into triumph, and done it all with intention and style. Historically, fashion has been a survival tool, a status marker, and a storytelling device—long before runways and trend forecasts existed. The Akan people mastered this language centuries ago, using Adinkra in ceremonial dress and afterlife rituals to communicate legacy with humility and precision.
Adinkra symbols are inherently intergenerational—fashion as inheritance. Black Fashion Week moves with that same reverence. In honor of our co-curated exhibition, Connecting Threads: African Fashion in Chicago, now on view at the Field Museum through March 1, we created a limited collection of six custom Adinkra keepsake pieces. Designed to be worn, remembered, and passed down, these pieces are an offering to the future—fashion as memory, message, and lineage… for those willing to be generous ancestors.
Freedom (Fawahodie)
Freedom Adinkra Symbol Unisex T-Shirt $19.99 – $24.99
Freedom is never passive—it comes with responsibility. The Fawohodie symbol, inspired by the Adinkra phrase “fawohodie ene obre na enam” (“independence comes with responsibility”), represents emancipation, self-determination, and limitless expression.
Designed as a unisex essential in sizes S–5XL, this tee honors freedom not just as a right—but as a practice.
Royalty (Adinkrahene)
Royalty Adinkra Symbol Youth Staple T-Shirt $19.99
Known as the chief of Adinkra symbols, Adinkrahene represents leadership, charisma, and greatness. It embodies the core values that shaped Akan culture—and the legacy we pass to the next generation.
This youth tee was designed for little kings and queens learning early what it means to lead with strength and purpose.
Learn from the Past (Sankofa)
Learn From Past Adinkra Symbol Tan Eco Tote Bag $24.99
Sankofa teaches us that progress requires remembrance. Depicted as a bird looking backward while moving forward, it translates to “return and retrieve”—a call to reclaim what was left behind.
Carry this timeless lesson with you in our eco-friendly tote, available in multiple colors and designed for everyday intention.
Strength (Dwennimmen)
Strength Adinkra Symbol Long Sleeve Shirt $29.99
Dwennimmen, symbolized by ram’s horns, represents strength balanced with humility. It reminds us that resilience and gentleness can coexist—especially in Black identity.
Stay strong, stay grounded, and stay cozy in this unisex long-sleeve designed for those who carry power with grace.
Transformation (Sesa wo Suban)
Transformation Adinkra Symbol White Glossy Mug $12.99 – $17.99
Sesa Wo Suban translates to “transform your life.” Represented as a star within a wheel, this symbol honors growth, adaptability, and forward motion.
Let every sip remind you how far you’ve come—or gift it to someone stepping into their next chapter.
Wisdom and Knowledge (Mate Masie)
Wisdom and Knowledge Adinkra Symbol Women’s Crop Top $24.99
“I have heard and I have kept it.” Mate Masie represents wisdom earned through listening, understanding, and reflection. Its four interlinked eyes symbolize deep knowing.
Designed in four colors, this crop top is meant to live in your closet—and your legacy—for years to come.
As seen on the runway during our co-produced Fashion Runway Show at the Chicago Field Museum.
Meet us on our socials:
IG- https://www.instagram.com/blackfashionweekusa/
FB- https://www.facebook.com/blackfashionweek/
Follow Black Fashion Week USA for exclusive designer features, runway coverage, and year-round Black fashion trends.