A fabric once familiar in many Ghanaian homes becomes a statement of contemporary style in the hands of designer Larry Jafaru Mohammed.

Through his label, Larry Jay, the Accra-born creative is giving traditional textiles, particularly tie-dye, a fresh identity while championing local craftsmanship and inclusive fashion.

Founded in 2017, Larry Jay grew from Mohammed’s earlier experience designing accessories in 2012 before he moved into ready-to-wear clothing around 2016.

His vision was to build a fashion business that created opportunities for artisans in his community while celebrating African creativity.

The label’s ethically produced, unisex collections draw inspiration from African cultures, textiles and nature. Streamlined silhouettes, camp-collar shirts and flowing skirts bring a contemporary sensibility to familiar cultural influences.

Recycling and upcycling locally sourced materials also form part of Mohammed’s approach to responsible fashion.

His Spring 2021 Nomad collection explored tradition, comfort and the spirit of travel. Purple featured prominently in its monochromatic looks, while tie-dye brought memories of fabrics worn by earlier generations into modern wardrobes.

Mohammed even photographed some designs on his parents, drawing inspiration from their stylish 1970s photographs.

The collection also carried a message beyond clothing. Presented during the pandemic, it featured models of different races and religions to promote peace and solidarity.

For Mohammed, fashion is therefore more than creating attractive garments. It is a way to preserve cultural memories, support creative communities and communicate shared humanity.

Through Larry Jay, Ghanaian heritage finds room in contemporary wardrobes without losing its connection to the past.

A beautifully tailored pair of trousers can lose its appeal when the wrong underwear creates visible lines, unwanted outlines or fabric that clings awkwardly to the body.

While much attention is given to finding the perfect cut, colour and fit, an often-overlooked detail in women’s fashion is what goes underneath.

The growing conversation around thoughtful dressing is shifting attention towards underwear as an essential part of building a polished wardrobe.

The Foundation of a Flattering Outfit

For fitted and tailored trousers, seamless underwear with laser-cut edges offers a smoother finish by minimising visible panty lines.

Choosing the right colour is equally important. Contrary to the common assumption that white underwear works best beneath light-coloured clothing, nude shades that closely match an individual’s skin tone are often less visible under cream, white and pale linen fabrics.

The choice of underwear also depends on the trouser silhouette. Wide-leg trousers, for example, can be paired with biker shorts to reduce friction between the thighs, prevent chafing and stop fabric from catching against the legs.

For lightweight or flowing trousers, smoothing shorts provide another option. They help create a more streamlined appearance while preventing delicate fabrics from clinging to the body.

Why the Details Matter

These styling considerations reflect a broader understanding of fashion: looking well-dressed involves more than following trends or purchasing expensive clothing. Fit, fabric, proportions and appropriate undergarments all contribute to the finished look.

For women building versatile wardrobes, especially in Ghana’s warm climate where lightweight fabrics and breathable clothing are practical choices, selecting suitable underwear can make everyday dressing more comfortable.

The lesson is simple: the best outfits are often supported by details nobody sees. Sometimes, the difference between an ordinary look and a polished one begins underneath the clothes.

Fashion is not about fitting into a particular body type; it is about understanding your proportions and making clothes work for you.

For petite women, finding that balance can sometimes be challenging, particularly when oversized silhouettes, awkward hemlines and poorly fitted jackets dominate the wardrobe.

The secret, however, lies in thoughtful styling rather than restricting personal expression.

Creating the Illusion of Height

A few wardrobe adjustments can make a noticeable difference. V-neck and scoop-neck tops, for instance, draw the eye upwards, creating the appearance of a longer neckline and torso. Well-fitted shoulders are equally important.

Blazers and jackets should sit naturally at the shoulder seams, with sleeves ending around the wrist for a polished finish.

High-waisted skirts and trousers are another useful styling choice. Tucking in tops or adding a slim belt helps define the waist while creating the impression of longer legs.

Cropped jeans can also work beautifully when their hems fall at or just above the ankle, particularly when paired with heels.

Finding the Right Balance

Proportion is central to dressing a petite frame. Dresses and skirts that finish above the knee or reach the ankles can create a more balanced silhouette, while mid-calf lengths may visually shorten the legs.

Oversized clothing and large prints are not necessarily off-limits, but they require careful styling. A belt can introduce definition to a loose dress, while bold prints can be balanced with solid-coloured pieces.

For outerwear, open coats or designs ending around the knee offer flattering alternatives.

Ultimately, petite fashion is not about following rigid rules. It is about understanding fit, proportion and personal taste. Confidence remains the most important accessory, allowing every woman to embrace her height and express her individual style.