5 Reasons to Love Ankara (African) Print | Thriftanista in the City

7.02.2014

5 Reasons to Love Ankara (African) Print

Just like a lot of fashionistas out there, I'm obsessed with ankara. A couple of weeks ago I was dreaming of a shopping trip to Ghana and this week the african print dresses came to me.

ankara african print

Even though I have quite a stash of african print fabrics, I am not likely to sew up my own clothes anytime soon. A friend was kind enough to have 2 outfits custom made for me. I emailed my vision and measurements in just enough time for my lovelies to make the Ghana to US journey with a visiting relative.



ankara dress ideas

I wanted styles that would be functional for everyday SAHM wear and could be worn for a night out. I've worn ankara skirts with a vintage blouse, a simple tee and even with my beloved sequins.

I decided to have a shirtdress made because it's a style that compliments my body well. The other outfit is a top / skirt set that I'll show you later. It was also made with my body type in mind.

5 reasons to love ankara trend

I love ankara! Here's why:

5 Reasons to Love African Print


  1. They come in a great mix of colors and can act as a guide to help you decide what colors look good together.
  2. The fabric is very comfortable and breathable.  It is washable too! I would recommend dry cleaning though to keep the colors nice and vibrant.
  3. The prints are pretty timeless.
  4. The print makes a statement and you don't need anything else to stand out. I'd totally be ok with a big jeweled statement necklace too.
  5. It suits a variety of tastes and sizes. Everyone looks good in ankara!

african print dresses

It's not everyday that a custom made dress appears out of nowhere so if you're interested in african print dresses, I would recommend:

  • checking out ready to wear designers like Modahnik or Boxing Kitten.
  • find a dressmaker or tailor in your neighborhood.  
  • look at online shops like ASOS or Etsy
  • if you're crafty, do it yourself!

thriftanista in the city

Are you an ankara fan?

sahm style
GIFT Ghanaian dress - Carlos by Carlos Santana wedge gladiator sandals

***in other news***

Friday is the last day to enter  the $150 Amazon gift card giveaway.

Looking for vintage Salvatore Ferragamo pumps? Check me out on ebay!


7 comments

Ashleigh said...

I've never worn the print to my knowledge but it looks sensational on you! You're right, the shirt dress really suits you.
-Ash
www.stylizedwannabe.blogspot.com

Economy of Style said...

If I wasn't already a huge fan of Ankara prints, I would now be convinced for sure. Love this post.

Unknown said...

You know I love me a good Ankara skirt/dress. Very cute!

Unknown said...

Coming over from the link-up. This print is so pretty! I've always admired these prints on several of my African friends, but I don't own any. This shirt dress is a great silhouette on you!

Nicole
Nicole to the Nines

Unknown said...

I'm soooo loving this post. You are working that ankara hun. Yes! I love me some African prints. Fabulous!

Unknown said...

Yes EVERYONE looks good in Ankara! Starting with you :)

Dina's Days said...

I LOVE IT and all of your reasons why are on point. This really inspired me to keep an eye out for these fabrics and prints.

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