In Living Color:  How to Wear Ankara Prints 

In the past few years, there’s been a surge of popularity in Ankara prints. Being bold and beautiful, this African-inspired style is a fresh new trend that is picking up speed all across the globe. Ankara is the West African word for “colorful” and the style is known best for its vivid designs. Stylish celebrities from Beyonce and Jidenna to Michelle Obama and Gwen Stefani have adopted this trend as it spread through the mass market. Ankara prints are worn universally by men and women alike.  Ankara looks have also made an appearance on the runway with designer collections by Stella Jean and Marc Jacobs.

For those looking to tap into this unique and distinct trend, here’s three tips on how to rock Ankara prints.

Find Your Own Fit

The best part about Ankara prints is how versatile the clothing is — they’re super fun, comfortable and stylish to wear. The prints are so modern they work in just about any style, including chic, casual, dressy and sporty. For example, if you’re going for comfort, Ankara print blouses over a pair of jeans or shorts are great for women. For weekend outings or parties, circle skirts paired with black long-sleeved tops can bring some color to the dull, dreary winter season or match the vibrancy of the sun in the summertime. Additionally, you can even wear these attention-grabbing styles as rompers or jumpsuits. For men, Ankara print button-up shirts or vests can be perfect for festivals or vacations.

Accessorize with Ankara

If you’re a little more reserved but want to try this look, another great option is to wear Ankara prints as accessories. Whether they’re on a purse, necklace, headwrap or pair of shoes, these popular prints can add a touch of playfulness to a simple outfit. For example, Ankara print tote bags, purses and handbags can serve as ultra-functional accessories to any outfit. Earrings and necklaces can be statement pieces that draw the eye to the face and add a touch of personality to a more plain look. Ankara prints can even been worn as hair accessories such as head wraps or hair clips, giving a vibrant pop of color to your hair styles.

Take it a step further and incorporate Ankara prints into your home decor, using them as tablecloths, couch pillows and bed comforters. The options for Ankara accessories are truly endless!

Style for Special Occasions

While Ankara prints are great to wear at casual events and celebrations, don’t be afraid to dress them up for more corporate or formal events. The key here is simplicity. A good rule of thumb is to choose Ankara prints with three or less colors that are rich, but not too loud such as green, blue, brown and wine, or pair them with nude or black pieces. For women, this can mean wearing an Ankara print floor-length gown or pencil dress, or pairing a black peplum blouse with an Ankara print blazer. For men, there are any array of Ankara prints and patterns that can be worn as ties or handkerchiefs to complement suits. If styled right, Ankara prints can give you a look that’s stunning and regal for those classier occasions.

There really is no limit to the kinds of styles that Ankara prints can touch. They’re modern and timeless, so feel free to experiment and stand out with style in these looks!

Dru Thompson is a designer, writer and educator who currently owns and operates Dru Christine Fabrics and Design. Most days, you will find Thompson bustling in her fashion design studio and boutique, located at 1615 East 25th Street in Lake Affect Studios in Cleveland, in between playing taxi to son Chase and dog walking her shih-tzu, Oscar. To read more about Dru, visit druchristine.com or find her on Facebook @DCFabricsandDesign, on Instagram and Twitter @druchristine.