Digital Fashion and the Urban Youth in Nairobi: G-String as a Space for Erotic and Sexual Imagination

Abstract

The landscape of urban fashion in Nairobi, Kenya, is rapidly evolving, driven by digital platforms and influenced by celebrities, musicians, and social media influencers. Among the emerging trends, is the G-string- a tiny piece of lingerie that leaves little to the imagination that has increasingly become a symbol of seduction and sensuality in modern times. The popularity of G-string fashion stands out as a space for erotic and sexual imagination among urban youth. This paper argues that the convergence of digital technology and globalized consumer culture is reshaping social and economic dynamics in African urban centers, leading to the emergence of new forms of romance and altering traditional sexualities. However, this shift has also resulted in what is termed as 'deranged cosmology' among the youth in urban Kenya. Through an investigation into the influence of digital platforms on fashion trends and the socio-cultural implications of G-string fashion, this study aims to dissect the impact of commoditized sex and romance facilitated by global economic forces. Furthermore, it explores the transformative effects of digital fashion on familial relationships and traditional cultural values, highlighting the complexities of identity formation and social cohesion among urban youth in Nairobi.