African Clothing

Traditional African clothing articles are dated back to hundreds of years ago. Not only is African clothing unique in style, but it also represents symbolism, tribalism and history. Africa is a continent full of different cultures and people and African clothing represents all of these styles. Throughout the years African clothing has modernized and changed to fit the latest fashion trends, while still keeping its unique style. Today, African clothing comes in various colors, design, materials and styles. They can be used for various functions and occasions or even just for every day wear. Each of these clothing styles has their very own authentic look and identity.

African clothing is stylish and functional. There are various styles available, which include articles of clothing that are Kenyan, Nigerian, Ghanaian, Senegalese, Rwandan, Ugandan, Egyptian, Kitenge, Lace, Leso, Gele, Iro, Isiagu, Kanzu, Kalasiris, etc. Each style is a reflection of its region and diversity. The ethnic styles are versatile and an informative way to visually represent what African clothing and culture is about. African clothes are ideal for those wishing to connect with both the past and future generations.

The most popular African styles includes:

Dashikis:

This is a colorful and unique garment that covers the upper part of the body. It is often paired with drawstring pants. Dashiki garments are worn in formal and informal occasions and for a variety of ceremonies.

Boubou:

A boubou is a type of Dashiki that is generally worn with matching pants and a long robe that covers the outfit. They come in various styles and colors and are suitable for any function.

Kente:

The kente is made from a cloth that is a type of silk and cotton. The fabric is made of interwoven cloth strips, which originates from Ghana.

Kaba:

A kaba is a long wrap-around skirt and matching blouse made from African wax print or cloth. The skirt has a pair of strings in the waist, which is drawn together to fit the waist or sometimes normal zips could even be used.

Yoruba:

The yoruba is a four-piece outfit, which consists of a hat, a Buba, embroidered pants and a flowing Agbada. A Yoruba also includes an African Bariga, which is an outfit that is comprised of a long-sleeved shirt, a hat, and embroidered pants and a flowing Buba.

Modern Traditional African Clothing:

Modern African outfits can easily be worn to work, parties or even as daily casual wear. These outfits include African pencil dresses, African print skirts, trousers, jumpsuits, playsuits, etc. African outfits are made using African wax prints or Ankara prints but come in a more modern, stylish and easy form. There is a wide selection of fashionable clothing available today that comes in various colors, design, materials and styles.

Types of African Clothing for Couples

Nothing beats a couple happily in love and that is proudly show-casing their love and union to the world by wearing matching outfits. African clothing is ideal to immediately announce their union to the world. African fabric for couples ranges from Kente, Gele, Dashiki, Ankara, Kitenge and Kanga.

Ankara Clothing:

Ankara is made from fabric and cloth. Ankara fabric has a range of African prints in animal, patterned or florals, where each person can choose their personal preference. Ankara has beautiful tops and pants for the ladies to flatter their bodies, as well as ankara tops and matching pants for the men. Ankara comes in complementary colours and fabrics to match couples perfectly. There is also lace and ankara designs which are more elegant and formal for couples who like to attend formal parties, dates and events.

Dashiki Clothing:

Dashiki has a cotton feel and comes in bright patterns for each individual. These suit individuals who want a more casual look as shirts and tops are often loose-fitting and comfortable. Couples can match their outfits, which are best worn to informal places and events.

African wear for couples is no longer restricted to kitenge, kente and ankara. There are many native matching clothing items for couples, such as patchwork, hoodies, coats, pants and sleeveless tops. The articles of clothing are tailored and custom-made to become unique African clothing pieces for daily wear.

What African Clothing Items are Ideal for Kids?

There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing items of African clothing for kids. Every parent wants their kid to look beautiful and neatly attired, but comfort is also an important factor to consider. Kids want to keep up with the latest trends, and they also outgrow their clothes quickly, so clothes should be purchased when needed. There are many beautiful African dresses for girls and comfortable clothes for boys to show the authentic style and culture of Africa, all the while being kid friendly. These include traditional dresses, Dashikis and French lace apparel.

Traditional Dresses for Girls:

African dresses are pieces of clothing made from premium fabrics like hand-woven silk, cotton or hand-painted satin. They don’t necessarily come in one piece – the items are often made up as 2-piece dresses, which often consists of a flared top, a skirt and a head wrap.

Dashikis for Boys:

Dashikis are the traditional outfit worn by men; they are comfortable for little boys too! It has a fabric wrap that is cool and flexible for kids on the go and is bright and colourful to easily grab their attention.

French Lace Apparel for Boys and Girls:

Dress up your child in beautiful formal wear by choosing French lace apparel. The pieces are not only elegant and sophisticated but come in traditional colours for formal events.

Is There an African Clothing Store Near Me?

Fortunately, if you live in Africa, there are stores worldwide that sell traditional and modern African clothing. A quick search on the internet with your location is all you need. If you aren’t able to get to a store, online shopping is always available. Amazon has a range of African clothes and categories for easy access to clothing around the world.

How to Match African Clothing and Accessories  

There are many hoodies, jewelry, scarves, head wraps, caps, hats, shoes and other items that are available, which are specially designed to match African pieces of clothing. Matching African clothing to accessories can be attained through the use of different suede shoes and loafers for the man. Ladies can pair outfits with trendy high heels. To set off the African look, clothing can be paired with a kufi. A kufi is a traditional West African hat. Sometimes a gele may be used, which is a matching headscarf or head tie. A shoulder stash or shawl is also paired, which is called Iborun or Ipele. A wrapper, which is a colorful garment, can be used for formal and informal functions and suits both simple draped clothing and fully tailored ensembles.

What Are Good African Clothing Brands?

Today’s top clothing brands take traditional African clothing and give the clothes a contemporary twist to suit modern pieces of clothing, while still keeping the authentic African style. African brands are constantly evolving and expanding their branding to keep up with the latest and famous trends. Some of these brands include:

• Aurenceairline
• Deola Sagoe
• Lion Cloth and Ashes
• Ohema Ohene
• Orange Culture
• NN Vintage
• MaXhosa by Laduma
• Tsotetsi KL

Where to Buy African Clothing?

Visit your local clothing stores that stock traditional African clothing to purchase these unique and elegant pieces. Online shopping is also available for quick and convenient access to clothing. There are many African clothing stores such as Kisua, Diyanu and Amazon. Demand Africa also has a range of apparel that is suited to the African style.