Accra, Straight-Up!
Freedom, friendship and fierce looks on the streets of Ghana’s capital.
In 1977 on the Kings Road, Terry Jones commissioned Steve Johnston to photograph London punks against a wall and called it a Straight-Up. The format quickly became an i-D staple and a bible of global personal style. To celebrate i-D’s relaunch, we took to the streets of five cultural capitals – including Accra, where photographer Nana Kwadwo Agyei Addo honed in on the passers-by who caught his eye.
Get to know them below and also check out the rest of our Worldwi-De Straight-Ups in London, New York, Paris and Tokyo.
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The concept of Straight-Ups by i-D is a celebration of personal style, individuality, and the cultural pulse of diverse cities. This format, first introduced in 1977 by Terry Jones, brought to life the unique aesthetic of London's punk scene, offering an unfiltered and authentic look into the street styles that define global fashion. Over time, it has become synonymous with i-D, serving as a bible for personal style and a platform that celebrates fashion as a form of self-expression.
Being the first Ghanaian to be part of this iconic tradition is an incredible honor. It’s a moment that not only highlights my journey as a photographer but also showcases Ghana’s vibrant and evolving fashion scene to the world. Through this project, I had the privilege of capturing Accra's energy, creativity, and modernity, proving that Ghana is not just a cultural hub but also a growing force in contemporary fashion and trends.
The project was shot in a documentary film style to preserve the authenticity of both the images and the people. This approach allowed the raw energy and unfiltered character of Accra’s streets to shine through, capturing not just what people wore but how they wore it—reflecting their confidence, stories, and individuality. This format amplified the organic beauty of Ghanaian street style and gave the world a glimpse into the modern expression of our culture.
This experience has helped bring global attention to Ghanaian talent, bridging the gap between our local expressions and the broader fashion dialogue. It's inspiring to see how Straight-Ups has evolved from its punk beginnings to embrace the dynamic and diverse styles of cities like Accra. For me, this was a platform to tell a story—not just about clothing, but about identity, community, and the pride of being Ghanaian in a global context.