Nkao Tempela: Stepping On Necks for Detty Dezemba

Meji Meji Pop-Up In Accra

Stepping into Detty Dezemba, the motto is ALWAYS 'nkao tempela'. Many know the piano song by Ch'cco ft Mellow Sleazy but do people know what the lyrics mean?

In the song they say, "Shapa ka plug ya di bozza you'd swear I'm Xhosa... nkao tempela" (Ch'cco et al., 2021) . 'Nkao tempela' embodies the attitude of stepping out boldly, making a statement, and owning your presence. It reflects confidence, dominance, and a flair for standing out, much like stomping or "stepping on" in a figurative sense. And if there’s one thing everyone knows, it’s that Xhosa people have mastered the art of tempeling—they always step into a room and own it.

The Pre-Trip Scrollathon

My 2024 Detty Dezemba Pinterest Collage

It starts weeks before the trip. Armed with your phone or laptop, you dive into the labyrinth of online stores, scrolling through countless websites for the perfect clothes. You’re not just shopping; you’re curating a wardrobe that will carry you through every wedding, brunch, party, and impromptu hangout. From flowy to figure-hugging dresses, crisp linen shirts to dazzling accessories, every piece must scream “I understood the assignment.”

The stakes are high. You’re dressing for the gram, for family gatherings, and for tourist attractions.

The Beauty Checklist

Once the clothes are sorted, the real work begins. Hair, nails, lashes, and everything in between—each element is critical to the final look. Do you go for braids? If so, which braids? A sleek pony is cute, but you might want to swim. Natural twist-out? Whatever you choose, it has to last through the festivities and still look fresh for that NYE party.

Nails are another battlefield. Pinterest boards are scoured for the perfect design—something that’s bold but not gaudy, festive and definitely over the top. You’ll sit through hours of intricate nail art because, in December, your hands need to tell a story as vibrant as the outfits you’ve picked.

The lash appointment is almost non-negotiable—if the eyes are the windows to the soul, then your lashes are the curtains that frame them.

The Days-of Chaos

Ayra Starr and Tems at Obi's house - Dezemba 2024

The day of an event arrives, and despite your best efforts to plan, chaos ensues. You wake up early to start getting ready, only to realize the timeline you’ve set is laughably optimistic. The hairstylist is running late, or worse, you’re halfway through taking down an old style when you realize you’re running out of time. Cue the panic as you’re forced to attend with your hair half-done, half-out—a tragic but relatable December tale.

Makeup becomes a race against the clock yho. The blending, the contouring, the highlighting—it all takes time, but the clock is merciless (African time comes in CLUTCH thought). By the time you’re finally ready, your outfit is a masterpiece, wa re tempela and the compliments make it all worthwhile.

Dressing as a Cultural Statement

In African Decembers, dressing well is about more than just appearances. It’s a cultural statement, a way to honor traditions while embracing modern trends. Just take a look at our actual cultural attire, it’s about showing up and showing out, turning heads and commanding respect. Each outfit tells a story, each accessory adds depth, and each look is a celebration of who we are.

So yes, the process can be exhausting. It can test your patience, your wallet, and your time management skills. But when you step into the room, looking like the embodiment of *Dezemba*, it’s all worth it. After all, in Africa, the festive season isn’t just a celebration—it’s a fashion show, and you’re the star of the runway.

The Takeaway

In conclusion, Detty Dezemba 2024 was not just about the events, the parties, or the unforgettable moments—it was about stepping into the season with a sense of purpose, pride, and style. As we all embraced the energy of "nkao tempela," we understood that fashion during this time is more than just clothes; it’s a statement of who we are. From curating the perfect wardrobe to the chaotic beauty routines, every step was part of the journey to embody the essence of Dezemba. The final look, perfected through sweat (in that Harmattan heat SIJULUKILE shem) and hustle, became more than just an outfit—it became a celebration of culture, confidence, and community. So, as we stepped into the festivities, we didn’t just show up; we made our presence felt, owning the runway of African December with the same boldness and flair that "nkao tempela" represents.