African fashion is more than just clothing. It is a way of expressing your identity, culture, and creativity. Whether you are looking for a casual, formal, or festive outfit, there is an African style that suits your personality and mood. In this article, we will show you the latest trends in African fashion, and how you can style them for different occasions. You will discover the beauty, diversity, and versatility of African clothing, and how you can incorporate it into your wardrobe. Get ready to be inspired by the stunning colors, patterns, and designs of African fashion.
What is African print and why is it so special?
African print, also known as Ankara, Kente, Dashiki, Kitenge, Batik, or Wax print, is a type of fabric that features colorful and intricate patterns that are printed using wax or dye. It originated from various countries and regions in Africa, such as Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia, and more. Each print has its meaning and symbolism, such as unity, royalty, wisdom, courage, and more. They are a way of celebrating and honoring the rich and diverse cultures and traditions of Africa.
African print has become a global phenomenon, and it can be used for various types of clothing, such as dresses, skirts, tops, pants, jumpsuits, coats, jackets, blazers, and more. It is popular and versatile because it can create a vibrant and eye-catching look that can suit any season, event, or mood. Some of the celebrities and influencers who have worn African print include Beyoncé, Rihanna, Lupita Nyong’o, Michelle Obama, and more. African print is a way of expressing your individuality and creativity, and it can make you stand out from the crowd.
The Top Five African Print Trends for 2024
If you are looking for some inspiration and ideas on how to wear African print, here are the top five trends that you should try out in 2024.
Bold and Bright Colors
One of the hallmarks of African print is the use of bold and bright colors that can make any outfit stand out and look vibrant. Some of the colors that are trending in 2024 include yellow, orange, pink, red, green, blue, purple, and more. These colors can add some warmth and energy to your look, and they can also reflect your personality and mood.
To wear bold and bright colors, you can choose an African print dress, skirt, top, or pants that feature one or more of these colors, and pair it with some matching or contrasting accessories, such as shoes, bags, jewelry, head wraps, or turbans. You can also mix and match different colors to create a unique and fun look. For example, you can wear a yellow Ankara dress with a pink belt and shoes, or a green Kente skirt with a blue top and accessories.
Mixed Prints and Patterns
Another fun and creative way of wearing African print is to mix and match different prints and patterns that can create a unique and eye-catching look. Some of the prints and patterns that are trending in 2024 include geometric, floral, animal, tribal, and more. These prints and patterns can add some texture and dimension to your look, and they can also show your adventurous and playful side.
To wear mixed prints and patterns, you can choose an African print top, skirt, pants, or jacket that features one or more of these prints and patterns, and pair it with another African print item that has a different print or pattern. You can also wear a solid color item to separate the prints and patterns and create some contrast. For example, you can wear a floral Ankara top with a geometric Kitenge skirt, or an animal print Dashiki jacket with tribal print Batik pants.
Asymmetrical and Off-shoulder styles
A chic and modern way of wearing African print is to choose asymmetrical and off-shoulder styles that can accentuate your features and add some edge to your look. Some of the styles that are trending in 2024 include one-shoulder, cold-shoulder, wrap, slit, ruffle, and more. These styles can show off some skin and curves, and they can also make you look elegant and sophisticated.
To wear asymmetrical and off-shoulder styles, you can choose an African print dress, top, or skirt that features one or more of these styles, and pair it with some accessories that can highlight your neckline, shoulders, arms, or legs. You can also add a jacket or scarf for some extra coverage or warmth. For example, you can wear a one-shoulder Ankara dress with a slit and ruffle, or a cold-shoulder Kente top with a wrap and belt.
Maxi and midi dresses and skirts
A classic and elegant way of wearing African print is to choose maxi and midi dresses and skirts that can flatter your figure and suit any occasion. Some of the styles that are trending in 2024 include A-line, pencil, pleated, flared, and more. These styles can create a feminine and graceful look, and they can also make you look taller and slimmer.
To wear maxi and midi dresses and skirts, you can choose an African print dress or skirt that features one or more of these styles, and pair it with some shoes and accessories that can complete your look. You can also add a blazer or cardigan for a formal or casual look. For example, you can wear a pencil Ankara skirt with a flared Kente top, or a pleated Batik dress with a belt and jacket.
Some tips on how to wear maxi and midi dresses and skirts are:
- Choose the right length and fit that can suit your height and body type. You can opt for a maxi dress or skirt that reaches your ankles or toes or a midi dress or skirt that reaches your calves or knees. You can also choose a dress or skirt that hugs your curves or flows around your body.
- Pair them with heels or flats that can match or contrast with your print, or that can add some height or comfort. You can choose heels or flats that have some color, pattern, or detail, or that have some height or comfort.
- Add a blazer or cardigan for a formal or casual look, especially if you are wearing these styles in colder seasons or occasions. You can choose a blazer or cardigan that complements or contrasts with your print, or that has some texture or detail.
Co-ords and Jumpsuits
A trendy and convenient way of wearing African print is to choose co-ords and jumpsuits that can create a cohesive and stylish look. Some of the styles that are trending in 2024 include crop tops and skirts, shirts and pants, rompers, and more. These styles can save you time and hassle, and they can also make you look fashionable and confident.
To wear co-ords and jumpsuits, you can choose an African print co-ord or jumpsuit that features one or more of these styles, and pair it with some accessories that can enhance your look. You can also layer it with a coat or sweater for a different look. For example, you can wear a crop top and skirt Ankara co-ord with a head wrap and shoes, or a romper Dashiki jumpsuit with a jacket and bag.
The Best Accessories to Complement Your African Print Outfits
Accessories are an essential part of any outfit, and they can enhance your African print outfits and make them more personal and expressive. Some of the types of accessories that you can use to complement your African print outfits are:
- Jewelry: Jewelry can add some sparkle and glamour to your African print outfits, and you can choose jewelry that matches or contrasts with your print. Some of the types of jewelry that are popular and suitable for African print are beads, shells, coins, metal, and stones.
- Shoes: Shoes can complete your African print outfits, and you can choose shoes that are comfortable and stylish. Some of the types of shoes that are trendy and appropriate for African print are sandals, flats, heels, boots
- Bags: Bags can carry your essentials and add some personality to your African print outfits, and you can choose bags that are functional and fashionable. Some of the types of bags that are chic and compatible with African print are clutches, totes, backpacks, etc.
- Head wraps and turbans: Head wraps and turbans can protect your hair and add some flair to your African print outfits, and you can choose head wraps and turbans that are colorful and versatile. Some of the types of head wraps and turbans that are stylish and adaptable for African print are bandanas, scarves, hats, etc.
Conclusion
African fashion is a vibrant and diverse expression of culture and creativity, and you can embrace it by following the latest trends and tips that we have shared with you. African fashion can make you look and feel confident, stylish, and unique, and you can wear it for any occasion, season, or mood. We would love to see how you rock the African clothing trend in 2024, so please share your feedback or photos with us.