In this post, I’ll be walking you through how to wear Ankara for any occasion. Whether you're a seasoned fashionista or just looking to step up your style game, there’s something here for everyone. After all, in Nigeria, fashion is not just about looking good, it’s about making a statement.
What Makes Ankara Unique?
Before diving into the different ways to wear Ankara, it’s important to understand why this fabric holds such a strong place in Nigerian culture. Originally known as "Dutch wax print," Ankara has a long history that’s rooted in the textile trade between West Africa and Europe. Over the years, it has become more than just a fabric – it's a cultural symbol, a way to express individual creativity, and a connection to our heritage.
The beauty of Ankara lies in its versatility. It can be worn in a simple, laid-back way or be styled into something dramatic, elaborate, and regal. It’s all about how you choose to express yourself through the fabric.
Choosing the Right Ankara for the Occasion
The first step in rocking Ankara is selecting the right fabric. There are so many different designs and prints available, so it’s important to choose one that fits the occasion. Here’s how to decide:
- Weddings: In Nigeria, weddings are one of the biggest occasions for showing off Ankara. Whether it’s a traditional wedding or the reception (where "Aso Ebi" is key), Ankara can be styled into stunning pieces. Bright, bold prints with intricate details are perfect for such events. Think of adding lace or tulle to give it that "owambe" feel.
- Casual Outings: For casual events like a day out with friends or a small family gathering, you can opt for simpler, less dramatic Ankara prints. Go for lighter patterns that don’t scream for attention but still keep you looking sharp.
- Church: If you’re wearing Ankara to church, opt for something modest and elegant. Ankara skirts and blouses or simple, long gowns with minimal embellishments work best for church. You can still stand out while keeping the look appropriate for the environment.
- Office Wear: Ankara isn’t just for parties; it’s becoming more and more common in corporate settings. The key to rocking Ankara at work is to keep it professional. Think Ankara blazers paired with solid color trousers, pencil skirts, or Ankara shift dresses. The right balance of vibrancy and class can make you stand out without being too much.
- Formal Occasions: For formal events like galas or award ceremonies, Ankara can be just as glamorous as any other fabric. The trick here is to elevate your look. Long gowns, mermaid cuts, or structured blouses with tailored trousers can give you that red-carpet-worthy appearance.
Ankara Styles for Women
Now that you’ve chosen the right fabric, let's talk about the many ways to style Ankara for women. Nigerian fashion designers have taken the versatility of Ankara to the next level, creating endless possibilities. Below are some popular styles you can consider for different occasions:
1. Ankara Gowns
Ankara gowns are a classic and timeless choice. Depending on the cut, they can be worn to casual outings, church, or even to a wedding.
- Maxi Gowns: These are floor-length gowns that can be worn to weddings, religious gatherings, or formal occasions. They are perfect for when you want to look elegant without putting too much effort into accessorizing. A maxi gown with bold patterns will always make you look sophisticated.
- Midi Gowns: For something a little more relaxed but still classy, opt for a midi gown. They work well for semi-formal events, birthday parties, or even a casual day out. A well-fitted midi gown paired with some simple jewelry is an effortless way to look chic.
- A-line Gowns: The A-line cut is flattering for most body types and can be worn to almost any occasion. It’s a style that accentuates your waist and flows outward, giving you that soft, feminine look. For a wedding or church service, this can be a perfect choice.
2. Ankara Skirt and Blouse
Another timeless favorite among Nigerian women is the Ankara skirt and blouse combo. This style offers endless possibilities for mixing and matching.
- Peplum Blouses: The peplum blouse, with its flared waistline, is perfect for accentuating your curves. Pair it with a high-waisted Ankara skirt for that figure-hugging yet elegant look. This style is great for weddings, church, or any semi-formal occasion.
- Pencil Skirts: If you’re looking for something more structured, the pencil skirt is your best bet. Paired with a simple blouse, you can wear it to the office or to a formal event. It's also great for giving you that “boss lady” vibe.
- Flared Skirts: For a more laid-back, playful look, a flared Ankara skirt is perfect. It adds movement and is incredibly comfortable for casual outings or traditional events.
3. Ankara Jumpsuits
If you want to make a bold fashion statement, an Ankara jumpsuit is the way to go. Jumpsuits are sleek, modern, and versatile. Depending on the cut and design, they can be worn to weddings, birthday parties, or even red-carpet events.
- Wide-Leg Jumpsuits: These have a flowy, elegant feel and can be dressed up with accessories for a formal event. Pair with high heels and a statement necklace, and you're good to go.
- Fitted Jumpsuits: If you prefer something more form-fitting, a tailored Ankara jumpsuit is a great option. It’s bold and stylish but can also be professional enough for a business meeting or conference.
4. Ankara Shorts and Trousers
For more casual occasions, Ankara shorts or trousers are perfect. They can be paired with a plain white or black blouse for a balanced look.
- High-Waisted Ankara Trousers: These are perfect for a casual day out or even for work. You can tuck in a simple blouse and accessorize with minimal jewelry for a chic yet professional look.
- Ankara Shorts: If you’re going for a picnic or a beach day, Ankara shorts can be a fun and playful choice. Pair them with a light top and you’re ready for a relaxed day out.
Ankara Styles for Men
Ankara isn’t just for the ladies! Nigerian men have also embraced the beauty of this fabric, and they wear it just as stylishly. Here are some great Ankara styles for men:
1. Ankara Agbada
When it comes to traditional events, nothing beats an Ankara agbada. This three-piece outfit, consisting of a large flowing gown, a wrapper, and a fitted inner piece, is perfect for weddings, chieftaincy titles, or religious celebrations. The agbada adds an air of prestige and importance, and when it’s made with Ankara, it brings a fresh, vibrant twist to a classic look.
2. Ankara Shirts
Ankara shirts can be worn with jeans, chinos, or even traditional trousers. The best part? They can be styled for casual or semi-formal occasions, depending on how you pair them.
- Short-Sleeve Ankara Shirts: These are perfect for a day out or even a casual Friday at the office. You can pair it with jeans for a laid-back look or with chinos for something a bit more polished.
- Long-Sleeve Ankara Shirts: For a slightly more formal look, opt for a long-sleeve Ankara shirt. It can be worn to a business meeting, wedding, or formal event. Pair it with tailored trousers and you’re good to go.
3. Ankara Senator Styles
The Senator style is a popular option for men who want to look sleek and modern. This two-piece outfit, which usually consists of a long tunic and trousers, is perfect for formal and semi-formal events. Made with Ankara, it adds a vibrant twist to the classic design.
4. Ankara Blazers
For the modern Nigerian man, an Ankara blazer is the perfect way to blend tradition with contemporary fashion. Whether you’re heading to a business event or a wedding, pairing an Ankara blazer with solid-colored trousers makes for a stylish, statement look.
Accessorizing Your Ankara Look
Accessorizing is key when it comes to wearing Ankara. Here are some tips on how to accessorize based on the occasion:
- Jewelry: For weddings and other formal events, don’t be afraid to go bold with your jewelry. Chunky necklaces, statement earrings, and bold rings can elevate your Ankara look. For casual outings or work settings, stick to simpler, more delicate pieces.
- Footwear: Your choice of footwear can make or break your outfit. For formal events, go for high heels or polished dress shoes. For casual outings, flats, sandals, or loafers can work perfectly.
- Headwraps and Hats: Gele (headwraps) are a must-have for any Nigerian woman attending a wedding or formal event. For men, pairing Ankara with a matching cap can tie the whole look together.
Conclusion
Ankara is more than just fabric—it’s a part of our Nigerian identity. It has the power to tell stories, honor traditions, and showcase our creativity, all while making us look fabulous. Whether you’re attending a wedding, church service, or even a casual hangout, there’s an Ankara style for every occasion. The key is to choose the right design, style it appropriately, and accessorize in a way that complements the look.
Here’s a quick recap of how to wear Nigerian Ankara for any occasion:
- For Weddings: Go bold with intricate designs, flowing gowns, or a regal agbada for men. Elevate your look with gele or matching caps.
- For Casual Outings: Keep it simple yet stylish with Ankara shorts, blouses, or easy-to-wear jumpsuits. Pair with comfortable shoes and minimal accessories.
- For Church: Opt for modest, elegant pieces such as midi or maxi gowns, or a skirt and blouse combination. Keep your accessories understated.
- For Office Wear: Ankara blazers or well-tailored dresses can be the perfect way to mix tradition with professionalism. Stick to clean lines and minimal jewelry.
- For Formal Events: Glam it up with long gowns, mermaid cuts, or structured blouses for women, and sharp, fitted Ankara suits or senator styles for men.
At the end of the day, wearing Ankara is about confidence and embracing the vibrant essence of Nigeria. As you step out in your Ankara pieces, let your personality shine through, and don’t be afraid to experiment with colors, patterns, and styles that resonate with you.
In a world where fast fashion is becoming the norm, Ankara reminds us of the beauty of craftsmanship and the significance of cultural pride. So, go ahead and rock that Ankara with pride. Whether you’re the bride at a wedding, the guest of honor at a birthday party, or simply the best-dressed person at the office, Ankara will always have your back. And remember, in Nigerian fashion, it’s not just about what you wear, but how you wear it.