15+ Beautiful African Print Inspired Dresses

The Rise of African Print Fabric

The African print has gained popularity across the world over the recent years. African-inspired fabrics are perhaps the in thing these days, with fashion models donning the attires during international fashion competitions and exhibitions. Top red-carpet fashion spots including New York, Paris, and Milan have embraced the popular Ankara as part of the modern industry.

Come to think of it, what led to the rise of African print fabric? You will be surprised to note that the print originated in the Netherlands when the Dutch made the fabric for Southern-Asian countries such as Malaysia and Indonesia. Instead, it was adopted in Africa, and its popularity has spread the world over.

The Fabric is Highly Versatile

Named after Turkey’s capital city, the colorful Ankara fashion is referred to as African, thanks to its tribal-inspired motifs and patterns. It boasts of 100 percent cotton fabric and is known as Dutch wax and Holland wax. For this reason, fashion designers can make virtually anything from it- dresses, skirts, blouses, shirts, hats, socks, blazers and even shoes.

The rise of the African print fabric has led manufacturers to make it more appealing by infusing cotton with Silk and Lycra. The resulting material is so stunning that the rich and famous could not resist it. Today, you will see celebrities and the elite wearing Ankara Kaftans, sports bras, bathing suits and leggings among other clothing.

Why is African Fabric so Popular?

The popularity of Ankara has seen governments encourage designers and tailors to make clothing out of it because it is regarded as a business with high returns on investment. In fact, financial institutions in Africa and abroad have asked fashion designers to borrow money for investment in Ankara fashion.

One thing that many people like about African print fabric is its bright colors. In Africa, social events such as weddings, birthday parties, anniversaries and such celebrations are regarded highly. Those attending easily don Ankara to heighten the feel-good mood. In some parts, brides and grooms have shunned the traditional gowns and suits in favor of African print.

The fact that Ankara is comfortable makes it an easy choice for many fashion-conscious people. Whether you are in the sweltering heat of Nairobi or the snowy streets of Paris, you are guaranteed to feel at ease. The fabric is evolving to meet the demands of every ardent fashionista.

Conclusion

The spotlight has been in Africa for a long time, but Ankara has today been made a worldwide cultural phenomenon. Now that Ankara is so popular at social events, shall we perhaps see it in more serious places such as offices in the near future?