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Sep 28, 2023 · In this article, we will explore 50 traditional African clothing from across the continent. We will look at the different fabrics, patterns, and designs that are used, as well as the cultural significance of each piece of clothing.
- 40 Must-See Traditional Outfits from Every Corner of Africa
From the vibrant and intricate patterns to the symbolic...
- 40 Must-See Traditional Outfits from Every Corner of Africa
- Kente
- Habesha Kemis
- Kanzu
- The Shuka
- Kanga
- Kitenge
- Ndebele Fashion
- Zulu Fashion
- Ghanaian Smock
- Kaftan
Kente is a type of silk and cotton fabric made of interwoven cloth strips and is native to the Akan tribe in Ghana. Historically the traditional African fabric was worn in a toga-like fashion by royalty among ethnic groups such as the Ashanti and Ewe in modern day Ghana, but today the wearing of Kente cloth has become widespread to commemorate spec...
Habesha kemis is the traditional attire of women in Ethiopia. The ankle length dress is usually worn by Ethiopian and Eritrean women at formal events, holidays and invitations. It is made of cotton fabric, and typically comes in white, grey or beige shades. Many women also wrap a shawl called a netela around the formal dress.
A kanzu is a white or cream coloured robe (ankle or floor length garment) worn mostly by men in the African Great Lakes region. It is referred to as a tunic in English, and as the Thawb in Arab countries. The kanzu serves as the national costume of Tanzania as well as the Comoros, where it is called ‘Kandu’. The robe is also worn in some coastal Mu...
The Maasai identity is often defined by colourful beaded necklaces, a wooden stick and a red or blue shuka cloth to wrap around their bodies. The Shuka is a very durable cloth. It’s also strong and thick and protects the Maasai from the harsh weather of the savannah.
In East Africa, the kanzu is the traditional dress worn by Swahili-speaking men. Women wear the kanga and the gomesi. The kanga, is a colourful fabric similar to kitenge, but lighter, worn by women and occasionally by men throughout the African Great Lakes region. It is a piece of printed cotton fabric, about 1.5 m by 1 m, often with a border along...
Kitenge or chitenge is a fabric similar to sarong that’s very popular in East, West and Central Africa. It is often worn by women and wrapped around the chest or waist, over the head as a headscarf, or as a baby sling. Kitenges are colorful pieces of fabric that contain a variety of patterns and designs. In the Coastal area of Kenya, and in Tanzani...
The Ndebelesin South Africa are renowned for their intricate beadwork and brightly coloured homes painted in striking geometric designs. Women fashion The main element of Ndebele women’s wear is an apron. Girls wear small beaded aprons, while older girls wear isiphephetu, a beaded apron given to them by their mothers, and isigolwani which are thick...
Traditional Zulu dress for men consists of animal skins and feathers; the kind of skins indicates the status of the person wearing them. The tufts of a cow’s tail (amashoba) are worn on the upper arms and below the knee to make the person appear broader than he is. Ibheshu The apron worn by men to cover their buttocks is called ‘ibheshu’, it is mad...
A Ghanaian smock is a plaid shirt that is similar to the dashiki, worn by men in Ghana. There are also female versions of it. Traditionally, the smock also called Batakari is considered a mark of power and tradition as some political leaders have been seen wearing the attire to make public statements. Kwame Nkrumah declared the independence of Ghan...
The kaftan features long sleeves and falls down to the ankles. Usually made of cotton brocade, lace, or synthetic fabrics, these robes are found in a number of different cultures and regions especially in North and Western Africa. In West Africa, the kaftan is worn by both men and women. The women’s robe is called a kaftan, and the men’s garment is...
2 days ago · Traditional African clothing offers a distinctive and outspoken statement that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the continent. This includes vibrant Ankara or kitenge prints, skillfully woven Kente cloth, Aso- Oke, and George lace. Let’s explore how to style traditional African wear for any occasion, from weddings, church, and formal ...
- Ankara Tops. Every day, new ankara top styles emerge. And while you can categorize these tops by their necklines, you can also categorize them by their sleeves and cuts too.
- Ankara Dresses. The current ankara styles for dresses also feature the properties of ankara tops. That is, they can have the same necklines or sleeves. From ankara short gowns to long ones, here are some of them
- Current Ankara Styles of Skirts. Any type of skirt you’d love to wear can be made with this fabric. The best of them include: Pencil. This style is suitable for formal settings.
- Ankara Two-Pieces. Coordinated sets make dressing upeasy and fun. No need spending time looking for the best bottoms or top to wear. Just wear your two-piece and get going.
Jul 18, 2023 · What is Afrocentric fashion? African heritage in Afrocentric fashion. Expressing identity through Afrocentric fashion. How to incorporate Afrocentric elements in your wardrobe. Style tips for Afrocentric fashion. Iconic Afrocentric fashion designers. Afrocentric fashion trends. Why Afrocentric fashion matters.
Jul 7, 2023 · The Vibrant Kanga: A Symbol of Swahili Pride. The Kanga, a versatile fabric, holds a special place in East African fashion culture. Worn by women, it symbolizes pride and individuality, allowing personal expression through clothing choices. Distinctive designs on the Kanga reflect Swahili heritage, telling stories of tradition and history.
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