Fashion isn’t just about clothes, is it?
Think about the last time you put on something that truly resonated with you—maybe a blazer that made you ‘stand tall’ or a dress that felt like it was made for you. That feeling is the centre of elegance. It brings that quiet confidence about who you are.
In today’s world, where fast fashion is everywhere, choosing an ageless style that celebrates sustainability feels almost like an unconventional act. It’s because the decision to choose what stands the test of time, which doesn’t come with fast fashion, is not usual.
It leaves you wondering why some pieces just keep making their way back into your wardrobe, while others quickly fade into the “what was I thinking?” pile. Those long-lasting pieces are more than just fabric; they’re memories, statements, and reminders of who you are when you’re at your most confident.
YAAWAA’s 2020 Ethereal Collection captures this essence. A brand that seeks to bridge the gap between traditionally themed wear and modern elegance that stands the test of time. Founded in 2019 by Ohemaa Yaa Serwaa-Kyerewaa Awuah, YAAWAA redefines African fashion with a blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary style. Designed for the modern woman, each piece embodies African aesthetics and global appeal, celebrating culture with a modern edge.
Imagine slipping into something that fits just right, where every stitch feels intentional, every detail thoughtfully placed. That’s the ethos of Ohemaa’s collection. Her pieces are crafted with care—tailored cuts that hug you in all the right ways, and fabrics that feel like luxury. They’re more than just clothes; they’re like extensions of you, designed to amplify your grace and strength without a single word.
YAAWAA’s commitment to storytelling shines through in each garment, created by artisans who bring handmade, intricate designs to life. Each outfit is more than clothing—they’re wearable art that empowers women to express individuality and confidence, seamlessly fitting into both every day and special occasions.
Proud of the African heritage, YAAWAA partners with artisans across the continent to honour and elevate traditional techniques within contemporary designs. This approach celebrates African artisanship and ensures each piece carries cultural pride.
Her collections have been showcased at events like Glitz Fashion Week, Nairobi Fashion Week, and African Fashion Week. YAAWAA continues to inspire confidence and creativity, honouring the richness of Indigenous origin on a global stage.
The brand seeks to answer questions about what elegance truly means. For some, it’s about simplicity; for others, sophistication. For all of us, it is personal. The outfits in the Ethereal Collection are not loud, but they say so much. They are for the woman who knows that style is less about trends and more about resonance. She is not swayed by what’s “in” this season because she knows her look is about more than just keeping up. It is more about feeling grounded, bold, and true to herself.
MINI CASSY
The soft blush pink CASSY dress tells all it needs to at first glance: sophistication at its finest. Through its tailored, minimalistic design, it holds a powerful presence that is difficult to ignore. The satin material is a standout choice, with a glossy, reflective quality that enhances the dress’s luxurious feel. Satin is often associated with glamour, and with the Cassy dress, the soft blush hue adds a touch of romantic elegance. The fabric’s sheen catches light beautifully, drawing attention without overwhelming the look.
Colour and Tone:
Blush pink is a versatile colour, embodying both femininity and a delicate feel. It is a shade that complements a variety of skin tones and brings warmth to the overall ensemble. The colour in the outfit is understated but far from boring—it allows the dress to make a statement while retaining a sense of softness.
Cut and Fit:
The dress is carefully tailored, with a fitted design that hugs the body without being too tight. The V-neckline adds a hint of allure, drawing the eye upward. The free hem at the bottom gives it a touch of playfulness, balancing the sleek design. Making the legs elongated, the dress is an ultimate classic that can make the wearer look casual, chic, sexy, and elegant in any setting.
Styling and Accessories:
Here, the choice of simple black pumps works harmoniously with the blush pink, soothing the outfit while adding a classic touch. Minimal jewellery allows the dress itself to remain the focal point, showcasing a modern take on elegance where less is more.
The entirety of this outfit makes it ideal for formal outings, cocktail events, or high-profile gatherings where understated elegance speaks volumes. It is a look that demands attention quietly, embodying confidence through simplicity.
BIANCA TWO-PIECE
A playful mix of colours and styles never hurts in fashion. At least when done with intentionality and skill. The BIANCA two-piece combines artistic flair with a sense of redefined elegance. The patterned mini dress, layered with a textured blush jacket, creates a blend of modern artistry and classic sophistication.
This outfit is all about contrasts in texture. The dress’s fabric appears to infuse a mix of soft and sharp textures, with the overlay jacket adding depth. The jacket’s textured sleeves and intricate detailing contrast beautifully with the smooth, printed dress, adding layers to the ensemble without making it overly complicated.
Pattern and Design:
The dress itself brings in a unique print that seems inspired by abstract art. Shades of blue and white give it a contemporary feel, while the brush-stroke-like patterns evoke a sense of creativity. This artistic choice complements the jacket’s blush tones, adding vibrancy to the otherwise soft colour.
Layering and Structure:
The structured, cropped jacket with voluminous sleeves enhances the entire outlook of the dress. It brings an avant-garde edge to an otherwise playful dress, making the outfit versatile enough for semi-formal settings. The contrast between the flared dress and the jacket’s puffy sleeves gives a modern twist to traditional silhouettes, showcasing a balance between formality and artistic expression.
Accessories and Styling:
The minimal black heels are a practical yet stylish choice, adding height and elegance without detracting from the outfit’s intricacies. Also, the subtle makeup and straight, polished hairstyle complement the look, allowing the outfit’s unique patterns to stand out.
When you have an outfit like the BIANCA dress, it is perfect for art exhibitions, fashion events, or up-to-par social gatherings. It speaks to a personality that values creativity and elegance, a person unafraid to mix textures and patterns in a refined way. This outfit doesn’t merely conform to trends, it rather redefines them, presenting a modern perspective on classic elegance.
Ohemaa’s choice of fabric style and cut in both of these outfits speaks to a deeper narrative about the power of fashion. In a world where self-expression is valued more than ever, choosing outfits that convey elegance and confidence can be empowering. Fashion is no longer just about clothing; it is about making a statement of unashamed boldness. These looks evoke a sense of empowerment through elegance, showing that poise is not about following trends but about expressing one’s identity.
They reflect a modern take on timeless fashion. A nod to the past with a gaze fixed firmly on the future. The decision to wear blush pink, a colour traditionally associated with femininity, in a bold, tailored form disrupts stereotypes and redefines what it means to dress with grace and authority.
Both outfits exude elegance and sophistication, but a few enhancements could elevate them further. For the Mini Cassy dress, a statement necklace or sleek drop earrings could complement the open neckline, drawing attention to the face while maintaining a minimalist appeal. For the Bianca outfit, refining the jacket’s length to better complement the dress by shortening the sleeves or making it more defined could make the jacket more cohesive. Heels in a color pulled from the dress’s pattern, like blue or blush pink, would bring out the dress’s artistic vibe and add visual interest.
All in all, elegance was made as a statement in the 2021 collection. It shows that Ohemaa knows elegance isn’t just a look; it’s a mindset, a way of saying, “This is who I am, and I stand by it.” She exudes this in all outfits.
YAAWAA will continue to be a brand committed to ethical sourcing and sustainable practices, crafting high-quality, timeless fashion that has gained international acclaim for its minimalist aesthetic and superb craftsmanship. From chic workwear to standout occasion pieces, YAAWAA continues to offer versatile designs that integrate effortlessly into urban, social, and corporate life, giving a reminder to reflect on who you are and what you stand for through fashion.
So, next time you reach into your wardrobe, ask yourself: does this piece make me feel like the best version of me? If it does, then you know you’ve found elegance—your own personal, timeless brand of it.