Top 15 Do’s and Don’ts of Afrocentric Wedding Guest Attire .The phrase “I have nothing to wear” is common enough, but wedding season makes people shout it from the rooftops. If you’re in your twenties or thirties, you may have at least one ceremony per weekend during the wedding season.

Some will be casual, others will be semi-formal, and dress codes are always a possibility. What are the rules of wedding guest attire? How can we make it through without maxing out every credit card? Here are our top do’s and don’ts when considering what to wear.

Afrocentric weddings add another layer of complexity and excitement to your wardrobe choices. These weddings often incorporate vibrant colors, bold patterns, and cultural traditions that are both beautiful and meaningful.

As a guest, it’s important to strike the right balance between celebrating this rich cultural heritage and maintaining the elegance appropriate for a wedding. Whether you’re familiar with Afrocentric fashion or new to it, these 15 do’s and don’ts will guide you in choosing the perfect outfit for the occasion.

Do’s of Afrocentric Wedding Guest Attire:

1. Do Consider the Wedding Dress Code

Afrocentric weddings may range from traditional to contemporary. If there is a specific dress code mentioned, such as “traditional African attire” or “semi-formal,” make sure to adhere to it.

2. Do Embrace Traditional Prints

Wearing traditional prints like Ankara, Kente, or Dashiki can be a beautiful nod to the culture. These fabrics are vibrant and can be styled in various modern ways.

3. Do Accessorize Thoughtfully

Traditional jewelry, headwraps, and other accessories can enhance your outfit. Think of beaded necklaces, cowrie shell bracelets, and gele headwraps for an authentic touch. For men you can try out different accessories from hat to agbada.

ALSO READ: 20 Fabulous African Wedding Suits for Men

4. Do Pay Attention to Colors

Bright, bold colors are often celebrated in Afrocentric attire. However, make sure to avoid colors that match the bridal party or the theme of the wedding.

5. Do Wear Comfortable Shoes

Many Afrocentric weddings include a lot of dancing. Comfortable shoes will allow you to fully participate and enjoy the festivities.

6. Do Opt for Modesty in Afrocentric Wedding Guest Attire

Traditional African attire often includes modest designs. Ensure your outfit respects the cultural norms and values, especially if the ceremony has a religious aspect.

7. Do Consider the Season

For summer weddings, lightweight fabrics like cotton or linen are ideal. For winter, consider heavier fabrics and layered looks. For outdoor weddings, prepare for sun, rain, or wind.

8. Do Layer Appropriately

Bring a stylish shawl, jacket, or cardigan in case the event transitions from day to evening, and temperatures drop.

9. Do Mix and Match

Combine traditional African prints with contemporary pieces for a unique and stylish look for Afrocentric Wedding Guest Attire. For example, pair an Ankara skirt with a solid-colored blouse.

ALSO READ:7 African Wedding Traditions That’ll Blow Your Mind!

10. Do Support Local Artisans

Purchase your attire from local designers or artisans. This supports the community and ensures your outfit is authentic.

11. Do Ask Friends for Advice

If unsure about what to wear, consult friends who are also attending the wedding. They can offer insights and help you avoid any fashion faux pas.

12. Do Consider the Bride and Groom’s Preferences

Sometimes, the couple will have specific preferences or requests regarding guest attire. Always consider their wishes.

Don’ts of Afrocentric Wedding Guest Attire:

1. Don’t Wear White as a Guest Attire

White is traditionally reserved for the bride. Avoid shades like ivory, cream, and champagne to prevent any confusion or offense.

2. Don’t Overdo It with Prints

While traditional prints are encouraged, avoid mixing too many patterns. Aim for a balanced and cohesive look.

3. Don’t Ignore the Dress Code

Disregarding the specified dress code can be seen as disrespectful. Always follow the guidelines provided by the couple.

4. Don’t Match the Wedding Party

Avoid wearing the same colors or styles as the bridesmaids or groomsmen. It’s best to find out the wedding colors beforehand.

5. Don’t Wear Casual Attire

Even if the wedding is casual, jeans and t-shirts are a no-go. Opt for dressy casual looks like midi Afrocentric dress or agada .

6. Don’t Be Too Flashy Guest Attire

Sequins, glitter, and overly bold outfits can overshadow the bride and groom. Aim for elegance and subtlety as a Guest Attire.

7. Don’t Wear Revealing Clothing

Modesty is key in many African cultures. Avoid outfits that are too short, low-cut, or tight.

8. Don’t Forget About the Venue

Your Guest Attire should be appropriate for the location, whether it’s a beach, a church, or a banquet hall.

ALSO READ: 10 Best Afrocentric Couples Dinner Date Outfits for a Stylish Evening

9. Don’t Underestimate Comfort

Avoid outfits that look great but feel uncomfortable. You’ll be spending several hours in this outfit, so comfort is crucial.

10. Don’t Forget to Research

If you’re unfamiliar with the cultural norms, do some research or ask the couple for advice. Understanding the traditions will help you dress appropriately.

11. Don’t Be Late to Shop

Start planning your outfit early to avoid last-minute stress. Custom-made traditional attire can take time to prepare.

12. Don’t Wear Inappropriate Shoes

High heels might look great but can be impractical for dancing or walking on uneven ground. Consider flats or low heels.

13. Don’t Go Overboard with Accessories

While accessories are important, too many can be overwhelming. Choose a few statement pieces that complement your outfit.

14.Don’t Ignore the Theme

If the wedding has a specific theme, make sure your outfit aligns with it. It shows respect and thoughtfulness towards the couple’s vision.

15. Don’t Forget a Backup Plan

Have a backup outfit in case of wardrobe malfunctions or unexpected weather changes. This ensures you’re prepared for any situation.

Conclusion

Navigating the world of Afrocentric wedding guest attire can be both exciting and challenging. By embracing traditional prints, paying attention to the wedding dress code, and considering factors such as location and weather, you can choose an outfit that is both culturally respectful and stylish. Remember to avoid overshadowing the bride and groom, opt for modest and comfortable attire, and accessorize with meaningful cultural elements. With these 15 do’s and don’ts, you’ll be well-prepared to attend an Afrocentric wedding looking your best while honoring the couple’s special day. Enjoy the celebration, and dance the night away in style!

The traditional African wedding is not as elaborate as Western weddings. Therefore, white wedding dresses are not appropriate for them. Traditional etiquette for wearing a white dress at an African traditional wedding is to avoid the color completely.

A traditional wedding ceremony is an African tradition. Traditionally, both the bride and groom wear similar-looking outfits in different fabrics. African tradition is one of the many cultures where people show respect for their elders when it comes to dressing up for events like weddings.

What colors can be worn to a traditional wedding?

African traditional weddings are a vibrant display of culture, with each tribe showcasing unique attire rich in symbolism. Colors hold deep meaning—brighter shades like yellow, green, and purple represent fertility, while darker tones like black signify strength.

From the Habesha attire of Ethiopians to the Umabo of the Zulus, the Onyonyo of the Efiks to the Mushanana of the Rwandese, and the Gomesi of Ugandans to Moroccan kaftans, the diversity is astounding. These outfits often feature intricate fabrics, bold designs, and accessories like headpieces, sashes, and jewelry, making African weddings a true feast for the eyes.

Tips on How To Choose The Best Dress For Your Body type

Choosing the best dress for a traditional wedding can be tough and often requires some expert help. Everyone should consider their body shape and weight before deciding which style is best for them. The following are some of the top  wedding dress designs  to help you decide on the perfect dress for your traditional African wedding.

ALSO READ: 11 Stunning Non-traditional African Wedding Dresses

#1: Igbo Wedding Dress(Get It Here).

A Blend of George fabric, crystals, and Swarovski. This beautiful bride set of Niger Delta/Benin attire is for the bride mostly used for weddings. It’s embellished just as seen in the pictures, made with quality George fabric.

#2 : Igbo Wedding Attire for Guest (Get It Here).

Elegance doesn’t always mean complex. This color looks extravagant, the uniqueness  of the sleeves,  add a stylish fashion statement for a African Traditional Wedding Dresses Ideas.

ALSO READ: Afronista Mermaids Graduation Gowns

#3: Kente Nigerian Traditional Wedding dress (Get It Here)

The color combination on this fabric is resplendent, to say the least. Open shoulders, plunging neck lines, chapel train and groom’s scarf to match, this look is just gorgeous. You and your significant other can definitely stun in this stunning African Traditional Wedding Dresses Ideas.

#4:Trending Style Mermaid Gown(Get It Here).

One hand fancy dress perfect for glamorous traditional wedding.

#5: Ankara Corset Traditional Wedding Dress(Get It Here).

Colorful off-shoulder dress It is simple yet glamorous. Accessories to your liking!

ALSO READ; 10 Must Have Classy Midi Dresses

#7: Luxurious Traditional Wedding Outfits(Get It Here).

#8: Africa Wedding Wear(Get It Here).

With touches of blue white and silver here and there, it isn’t overpowering.  The flares on the knee add a stylish fashion statemen

#9;Sheer Corset Evening Gown( Get It Here).

This is a great fabric design handmade in Africa to bring to you a royal African feel . Can be worn to any outdoor event paired with a nice pair of heels or shoes of your liking

#10 : Ankara Wedding Dress (Get It Here).

Colorful dress giving some elegant kind a vibe. It is simple yet glamorous. Accessory to your liking!

#11: African Print Wedding Dress(Get It Here).

This beautiful outfit is suitable for all types of events.

#12: African Maxi Dress(Get It Here).

This is a unique and beautiful dress perfect for either casual or formal occasions. It’s a soft and comfortable African cotton

#13: African Wedding Dress(Get It Here).

A beautiful African mermaid gown/fishtail dress perfect for weddings, prom, birthdays, and any occasion you plan to look your best in.

#14: African Wedding Dress(Get It Here).

#15: Burnt Orange Nigeria & Africa Lace Dress(Get It Here).

For a stunning look on your most important occasion.

#16: Isiagu African Wedding Dress(Get It Here).

his will make you look originally African by aligning you with the cultural fabric and styling.

#17: Gold George African Wedding Dress(Get it Here).

This will make you look originally African by aligning you with the cultural fabric and styling.

#18: Latest Nigeria & Africa Lace Dress(Get It Here).

#19: Nigeria Wedding Dress(Get It Here).

Nigerian Asooke Dresses for Black women using African prints and Fabrics Representing African heritage and rich Culture.

#20: Ankara Wedding Dress(Get It Here).

A beautiful African print corset dress is a statement dress that is perfect for a birthday dress, wedding dress, prom dress, and any occasion you plan to look your best.

#21. Ankara Pattern Outfit(Get It Here)

#22. African green embellished dress(Get It Here).

#23. Gold Luxury outfit(Get It Here)

#24. African swish lace dress(Get It Here)

#25.  Igbo Bride Attire(Get It Here).

CONCLUSION

Which dress are you rocking for a friends wedding?

ALSO READ: 10 Bloggers Share DIY Tricks To Make African Waist Beads

This outfit, which has its origins in Nigeria in West Africa, is a traditional suit worn with distinction and an air of wealth by the Yoruba people. Agbada traditional men wedding attire is now a common fashion item worn by anyone who can afford it, primarily during traditional weddings and other formal events, and it has spread to other parts of Nigeria and the rest of the world.

ALSO READ:10 FATHER’S DAY SENTIMENTAL GIFT IDEAS FOR FATHERS AROUND THE WORLD

1. AGBADA for men African wedding suit(Get It Here).

Who would have ever thought that agbada can be carved out from just any material? Here we are thrilled by this agbada with flamboyant embroidery made from a different material than what we hitherto know. One thing that has remained constant is the use of a cap to complete the look who would not want to match with their son?

2. Black AGBADA Like father Like son(Get It Here).

You can’t go wrong with the African Agbada version of the three-piece suit, you can wear it with just an inner top and trousers, or with Agada in the colder months. Agbada traditional men wedding attire neck embroidery is always stunning and there is no limit to the designer’s creativity.

3. Navy Blue AGBADa for men(Get It Here).

Call the Agbada African version of the three-piece suit and you won’t be wrong. You can go with just the inner top and the trousers or wear the agbada when the weather is cold. The embroidery on the neck of the agbada traditional men wedding attire  is always stunning—and there is no limitation to the designer’s creativity.

4. African Wedding Agbada Men Suit (Get It Here).

This is a popular attire for the elite Hausa tribe of northern Nigeria. Here, too, we see how versatile and luxurious Agbada embroidery can be. One thing is clear, Agbada traditional men wedding attire  feels more complete when paired with a matching cap.

ALSO READ:Men Summer Outfits Starter Pack.

5. African Dashiki Set(Get It Here).

Fashion doesn’t necessarily have to be complex to be beautiful—at least, that is what we learned from this ensemble. Besides the embroidery on the bodice, this would pass as a regular shirt. However, we know that this is far from regular especially with the blue color you can not say no to.

6. Blue AGBADA Father and Son Matching Set(Get It Here).

A decade ago, African men always wore a black or white suit to their wedding. However, that practice is changing. Today, we are seeing more couples show up for their wedding dressed in local attire. This is definitely one of the African men fashion you should have in your closet if you are planning to go against the norm on your wedding day.

7. AGBADA for Couples Matching Set(Get It Here).

White has always been the symbol of weddings. All of your groomsmen are sure to turn heads when they wear this outfit. So it’s interesting that Agbada looks good in both long sleeves and short sleeves. This African menswear caused a sensation across the continent’s coast

8. Agabda African Traditional Style (Get It Here).

A typical agbada usually has a limited design around the neck. However, this one has a more elaborate design that runs from the neck all the way down. The entire front is covered with embroidery. Also, the inner edge is lined with a different material making it one of the most decorated agbada ensemble. Think you are fashionable? Then, you must have this in your closet.

ALSO READ: African Hoodie For A Sophisticated Look

9. African Boy Suit Agbada Clothing Set(Get It Here).

No Ghanaian royal wedding is complete without a colorful display of different Kente styles. You don’t have to be Ghanaian to appreciate the beauty of this iconic fabric. We believe this is a must-have item for any fashionable African person to have in their closet.

10. Brown Tailored African Fashion Men Dashiki Suit(Get It Here).

What we love most about Ankara is how versatile it can be. In the hands of the right designer, Ankara can turn into a suit, an agbada, or a simple long sleeve shirt and trousers like in this case. The thigh-length shirt stands out for a number of reasons including the collar and the deep slit at the bottom. Wear it with the right accessories and you could be mistaken for prince charming.

11. African wear Brown tailored Dashiki Suit(Get It Here).

You don’t see a shirt with an asymmetric cut every day and that explains why every fashionable African man should have this in his closet. Fashion is really not about blending in but standing out. This African men fashion is one of the few that you can be certain that you will not find its lookalike with ease.

12. Nigeria African traditional Couple Aso Oke(Get It Here).

Nigerian African traditional bride and groom velvet Agbada aso oke wedding set. This beautiful complete set of African attire is for the couple(bride and groom) mostly used for weddings and other events. It’s embellished just as seen in the pictures, made with velvet and aso oke

13. Yoruba Traditional Wear(Get It Here).

If you enjoy wearing stylish African clothing, this Agbada will undoubtedly attract your eye. The vibrant print used to embellish the inside edge of the agbada is impossible to miss. The hat goes perfectly with the complete look. It’s impossible not to love it.

14. Burgundy African Groom Suit Agbada Babariga 3 Pcs Men’s African Clothing Kaftan(Get It Here).

As you would have noticed so far, agbada traditional men wedding attire is simply not complete without a cap. However, this time the cap is intentionally designed to match the agbada’s color and design. What makes this agbada unique is that, unlike other agbada that combine different colors, this one makes use of different shades of the same color.

15. African men shirt and a matching pant set(Get It Here).

Every fashionable African man should have this in his closet because you don’t see a shirt with an asymmetrical cut every day. Fashion is actually more about sticking out than it is about fitting in. One of the few styles for African males that you can be sure you won’t easily find a doppelganger for is this one.

ALSO READ: Ankara Print Bomber Jacket

16. African Agbada Men’s clothing(Get It Here).

If you enjoy wearing stylish African clothing, this Agbada traditional men wedding attire will undoubtedly attract your eye. The vibrant print used to embellish the inside edge of the agbada is impossible to miss. The hat goes perfectly with the complete look. It’s impossible not to love it.

17. Black on Black Agbada(Get It Here).

A common agbada traditional men wedding attire often has a simple neckband style. This one, however, has a more ornate pattern that extends from the neck all the way to the bottom. Embroidery is present all over the front. One of the most ornamented agbada ensembles, the inside edge is lined with a different cloth. You think you’re stylish, right? This must be in your closet, then.

18. Agbada Groomsmen African 2 pieces suit for Men(Get It Here).

As you have probably already realized, an agbada is just incomplete without a cap. The cap, however, is purposefully made to coordinate with the color and pattern of the agbada this time. This agbada traditional men wedding attire  is distinctive because it uses many shades of the same hue rather than mixing colors like other agbada do.

19. Agbada Men Senator wear (Get It Here).

20. African AGBADa Groom’s Suit(Get It Here).

21. Agbada For Men(Get It Here).

ALSO READ; African Print Must Have Summer Beach Time Outfits

22. Men’s traditional wear(Get It Here).

23. African Attire Men(Get It Here).

24. AGBADA For Men(Get It Here).

CONCLUSION.

What makes you really fashionable is not having these ensembles. Rather, try to have as much African menswear as possible so that you always look different and unique for different occasions. You Let me know what you have and what you think I’ll buy next.

ALSO READ: 2022 MOST POPULAR BABY NECKLACE & BRACELETS IDEAS