STREET STYLE

6 African Wear Styling Mistakes to Avoid (And How to Fix Them)

Published

3 weeks ago

January 7, 2026

African wear is bold, expressive, and beautiful—but when styled incorrectly, it can easily look overwhelming or out of place. Whether you’re new to African fashion or already own several pieces, understanding common African wear styling mistakes will help you look polished, confident, and modern.

In this guide, we’ll highlight the most common African wear styling mistakes people make when wearing African outfits—and show you simple, stylish fixes you can apply immediately.

Mistake #1: Wearing Too Many Prints at Once

African prints are powerful on their own. Mixing too many bold patterns in one outfit can make your look feel busy rather than stylish.

❌ What goes wrong:

Multiple loud prints competing for attention
No visual balance
Outfit feels heavy and cluttered

✅ How to fix it:

Stick to one statement print per outfit
Pair prints with solid-color basics (white, black, beige, denim)

🛍️ Affiliate Picks: Balance Bold Prints

Product Type	Why It Works	Shop Link
Ankara skirts	Bold focal point	https://tidd.ly/44ZRcBA
Plain fitted tops	Neutral balance	https://tidd.ly/3Nbmak7
Simple flat sandals	Keeps look casual	https://tidd.ly/4svZOtQ

Mistake #2: Over-Accessorizing African Wear

African wear already makes a statement—adding heavy jewelry, oversized bags, and dramatic shoes can overwhelm the outfit.

❌ What goes wrong:

Accessories compete with the print
Outfit looks costume-like

✅ How to fix it:

Choose minimal accessories
Let the fabric and design shine

Rule of thumb: If the outfit is bold, accessories should be subtle.

🛍️ Affiliate Picks: Minimal Accessories

Accessory	Best For	Shop Link
Stud earrings	Everyday wear	https://tidd.ly/49w0t5P
Crossbody bags	Casual outings	https://tidd.ly/4pMXD2F
Simple bracelets	Clean finish	https://tidd.ly/3YpOlyh

Mistake #3: Wearing African Wear Only for Special Occasions

Many people believe African wear is only for weddings, cultural days, or festivals. This limits how often you enjoy your wardrobe.

❌ What goes wrong:

Outfits sit unused in your closet
Missed everyday style opportunities

✅ How to fix it:

Choose casual silhouettes
Dress prints down with modern basics

Examples:

Ankara dress + sneakers
African print skirt + plain T-shirt
Print top + jeans

🛍️ Affiliate Picks: Everyday African Wear

Item	Why It’s Great	Shop Link
Casual Ankara dresses	Easy one-piece outfits	https://amzn.to/3NyA2oB
African print tops	Beginner-friendly	https://amzn.to/3Yqe6hU
Relaxed-fit skirts	Comfortable & stylish	https://amzn.to/4qGff0C

Mistake #4: Ignoring Fit and Tailoring

Even the most beautiful African fabric won’t look good if the fit is off.

❌ What goes wrong:

Too tight or too loose
Unflattering shapes
Reduced comfort

✅ How to fix it:

Choose your correct size
Look for adjustable designs (wrap dresses, elastic waists)
Tailor statement pieces if needed

🛍️ Affiliate Picks: Flattering Fits

Style	Fit Advantage	Shop Link
Wrap dresses	Adjustable waist	https://tidd.ly/44ZKf3u
A-line skirts	Universally flattering	https://tidd.ly/3Ljjroi
Elastic waist pants	Comfort + style	https://tidd.ly/4pxWXOq

Mistake #5: Not Matching Shoes to the Occasion

Shoes play a huge role in how African wear is perceived. The wrong shoes can instantly make an outfit feel mismatched.

❌ What goes wrong:

Heavy heels for casual looks
Sporty shoes for formal outfits

✅ How to fix it:

Match shoes to the vibe of the outfit

Casual: Sneakers, flat sandals, slides
Dressy: Block heels, wedges, leather sandals

🛍️ Affiliate Picks: Shoes That Work

Shoe Type	Best Paired With	Shop Link
White sneakers	Casual Ankara dresses	https://amzn.to/49sWzdQ
Flat sandals	Skirts & relaxed outfits	https://amzn.to/3YYnpps
Block heels	Structured African wear	https://amzn.to/45IYslz

Mistake #6: Choosing Heavy Fabrics for Hot Weather

African prints are often worn in warm climates, but heavy fabrics can make outfits uncomfortable.

❌ What goes wrong:

Overheating
Restricted movement

✅ How to fix it:

Choose lightweight cotton Ankara
Opt for sleeveless or loose-fit styles

Final Thoughts: Style African Wear with Confidence

African wear doesn’t have to feel complicated. By avoiding these common African Wear styling mistakes and making simple adjustments, you can create outfits that feel comfortable, modern, and effortlessly stylish.

Remember:

Let one print lead
Keep accessories simple
Dress prints up or down depending on the occasion
Prioritize fit and comfort

👉 Browse our curated African wear collection to find everyday dresses, skirts, and tops that are easy to style and made to flatter.

Can African wear be worn casually?

Yes. With the right styling, African wear is perfect for everyday outfits.

How many accessories should I wear with African prints?

Minimal accessories work best to avoid overwhelming the look.

What shoes go best with Ankara outfits?

Sneakers, flat sandals, and block heels depending on the occasion.

STREET STYLE

How to Style African Wear for Everyday Casual Looks

Published

4 days ago

January 24, 2026

I Wear African

African wear is no longer reserved for weddings, ceremonies, or special events. Today, casual African wear has become a stylish, comfortable, and expressive way to dress for everyday life. From running errands to meeting friends or even casual workdays, everyday Ankara outfits can fit effortlessly into your routine when styled the right way.

If you’re new to African fashion or looking for simple ways to wear it daily, this guide will show you how to keep your looks relaxed, modern, and wearable.

How to Style African Wear for Everyday Casual Looks

1. Choose Simple African Print Dresses for Daily Wear

When styling African wear casually, simplicity is key. Instead of heavily structured or layered designs, go for relaxed silhouettes that feel easy and breathable.

Best casual dress styles:

Shift dresses
Shirt dresses
Wrap dresses
Knee-length or midi Ankara dresses

These styles work perfectly for daily activities while still making a bold fashion statement.

Styling tip:
Pair a simple Ankara dress with flat sandals, sneakers, or slip-on shoes for an effortless look.

👉 casual African dresses suitable for everyday wear.

ALSO READ: We Think Every Fashionable African Man Should Have At Least One Of These Ensembles

2. Style Ankara Skirts with Basic Tops

One of the easiest ways to wear African prints daily is by pairing an Ankara skirt with a neutral top. This balances bold patterns with simplicity.

Best tops to pair with Ankara skirts:

Plain white or black T-shirts
Tank tops
Fitted long-sleeve tops
Denim or chambray shirts

This combination keeps your outfit casual without looking overdressed.

Styling tip:
Tuck in your top slightly at the front or add a slim belt to define your waist.

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

3. Keep Accessories Minimal

For everyday casual African wear, accessories should complement, not compete with your outfit.

Go for:

Small earrings or studs
Simple bracelets
Crossbody bags or tote bags
Comfortable flats or sandals

Avoid heavy necklaces or oversized statement pieces when dressing casually.

Styling tip:
If your outfit has bold prints, keep accessories neutral in black, brown, or nude tones.

4. Mix African Prints with Denim

Denim is one of the best ways to dress down African wear and make it feel modern.

Easy denim pairings:

Ankara skirts + denim jackets
African print tops + jeans
Casual Ankara dresses + cropped denim jackets

This mix creates a relaxed, everyday vibe while still allowing African prints to stand out.

African print tops and lightweight jackets.

5. Opt for Comfortable Footwear

Shoes can make or break a casual look. For daily African wear, comfort matters just as much as style.

Best casual footwear options:

Flat sandals
White sneakers
Ballet flats
Espadrilles

These shoes work well with dresses, skirts, and African print separates.

Styling tip:
Sneakers instantly transform Ankara outfits into casual, street-style looks.

6. Wear African Print Tops with Neutral Bottoms

If you’re just starting out, African print tops are the easiest entry point into casual African fashion.

Pair them with:

Jeans
Black trousers
Shorts
Plain skirts

This approach allows you to wear African wear without feeling overwhelmed by patterns.

African print blouses and tops.

7. Choose Breathable Fabrics for All-Day Comfort

Casual wear should feel as good as it looks. Lightweight cotton Ankara and soft blends are ideal for daily use, especially in warm weather.

What to look for:

Soft cotton prints
Lined dresses for comfort
Loose fits for airflow

This ensures your outfit stays comfortable from morning to evening.

8. Keep Hairstyles and Makeup Natural

Everyday African wear looks best with simple, natural styling.

Easy hairstyle ideas:

Low buns
Braids
Natural curls
Ponytails

For makeup, stick to light coverage, neutral tones, and a fresh glow.

Final Thoughts: Make African Wear Part of Your Daily Style

Styling African wear for everyday casual looks doesn’t have to be complicated. By choosing simple designs, pairing prints with basics, and keeping accessories minimal, you can easily turn African fashion into an everyday wardrobe staple.

Whether it’s a relaxed Ankara dress, a printed skirt with a plain top, or an African print blouse with jeans, casual African wear allows you to celebrate culture while staying comfortable and stylish.

👉 Explore our curated selection of casual African dresses, skirts, and tops to start building your everyday wardrobe.

STREET STYLE

Best African Dresses for Women: Casual, Formal & Wedding Styles

Published

3 weeks ago

January 7, 2026

I Wear African

African dresses are timeless, unique, and effortlessly stylish. Whether you’re dressing for everyday wear, a formal event, or a wedding, there’s an African dress that fits every occasion.

In this buying guide, we’ve rounded up the best African dresses for women, focusing on style, comfort, and perfect for a global audience shopping online through trusted platforms like Amazon and Etsy.

1. Best Casual African Dresses for Everyday Wear

Casual African dresses are ideal for errands, brunch, travel, or relaxed outings. The best styles are comfortable, breathable, and easy to style.

What to look for in Best African Dresses for Women:

Lightweight Ankara cotton
Knee-length or midi styles
Relaxed or A-line fits

🛍️ Best Casual African Dresses (Affiliate Picks)

Dress Style	Why We Love It	Shop
Ankara shift dress	Easy, no-fuss everyday wear	👉 Etsy: https://tidd.ly/3NxGH2m
Casual African midi dress	Comfortable & flattering	👉 Etsy: https://tidd.ly/45w0up8
Short-sleeve Ankara dress	Perfect for warm weather	👉 Etsy: https://tidd.ly/4psEXVC

Style tip: Pair with white sneakers or flat sandals for a relaxed everyday look.

👉 Shop casual African dresses here (Amazon & Etsy)

2. Best African Dresses for Formal Events

Formal African dresses combine elegance with cultural expression. These styles are perfect for dinners, celebrations, and special occasions.

What to look for:

Structured silhouettes
High-quality stitching
Midi or maxi lengths

🛍️ Best Formal African Dresses (Affiliate Picks)

Dress Style	Best For	Shop
Long Ankara maxi dress	Elegant evening events	👉 Etsy: https://tidd.ly/452Rw2y
African print wrap dress	Polished but comfortable	👉 Amazon: https://amzn.to/4ssn2AW
Fitted African midi dress	Classy formal look	👉 Etsy: https://tidd.ly/4ptC5I8

Style tip: Add block heels, a clutch, and minimal jewelry for a refined finish.

👉 Browse formal African dresses online

3. Best African Wedding Guest Dresses

African weddings are vibrant, stylish, and full of color—your outfit should match the celebration without overpowering it.

What to look for:

Bold but elegant prints
Flowing or tailored designs
Statement sleeves or details

🛍️ Best African Wedding Guest Dresses (Affiliate Picks)

Dress Style	Why It Works	Shop
Statement Ankara maxi dress	Perfect wedding guest look	👉 Etsy: https://tidd.ly/4aUsKpb
African print flare dress	Elegant & comfortable	👉 Etsy: https://tidd.ly/4qAqBDA
Modern African dress	Trendy yet traditional	👉 Etsy: https://tidd.ly/3Z7zzMF

👉 Find the perfect African wedding guest dress

4. How to Choose the Right African Dress Online

Shopping for African wear online can be easy if you know what to check.

Quick buying tips:

Always check the size chart
Read customer reviews (especially photos)
Choose sellers with clear fabric descriptions
Opt for return-friendly listings when possible

Final Thoughts: Invest in Dresses You’ll Wear Often

The best African dresses are the ones you can style multiple ways. Whether you’re building a casual wardrobe or shopping for special occasions, these curated picks from Amazon and Etsy make it easy to find stylish, high-quality African wear—no matter where you are in the world.

👉 Shop our recommended African dresses and upgrade your wardrobe today.

STREET STYLE

10 Best Ankara Print Bomber Jacket

Published

12 months ago

February 9, 2025

I Wear African

In the vibrant realm of fashion, Best Ankara print Bomber jacket, the allure of Ankara print remains an enduring symbol of cultural richness and sartorial expression. Among the diverse array of Ankara garments, the best Ankara print bomber jacket stands out as a fusion of cultural heritage and contemporary style. The best Ankara print bomber jacket, with its fusion of bold patterns and contemporary silhouettes, stands as a statement piece that celebrates heritage while embracing contemporary style. Exploring the landscape of 2024 fashion offerings unveils an array of striking designs and innovative interpretations, showcasing the beauty and versatility of Ankara prints in the realm of outerwear.

Unisex Yellow Kente Bomber Jacket(Get It Here).

Best Ankara Print Bomber Jacket 2022 — Our magnificent Unisex African Kente Print Bomber Jackets will make the perfect addition to your wardrobe or the perfect gift for that special person. They are unisex and therefore are suitable for both men and women and would make the perfect couples outfits. Made with premium quality and is insulated and has insulated pockets and will keep you warm in the winter.

African Print Unisex Bomber Jacket(Get It Here).

Add a little zing to your wardrobe with this vibrant All-Over Print Bomber Jacket. Wear it on a basic t-shirt, or layer it on top of a warm hoodie—it’ll look great either way. With a brushed fleece inside, and a relaxed unisex fit, this Bomber Jacket is just the stuff of the dreams, so be quick to grab yourself one!

African Mud Cloth Print Bomber Jacket – Unisex

ALSO READ; Must Have Afronista Show Stopper Accessories For Women

Bogolan-Print Quilted Bomber Jacket

African Wax Prints Ankara Bomber Jackets(Get It Here).

Add a little zing to your wardrobe with this vibrant African Print Bomber Jacket. Wear it on a basic t-shirt, or layer it on top of a warm hoodie—it’ll look great either way. With a brushed fleece inside, and a relaxed unisex fit, this Bomber Jacket is just the stuff of the dreams, so be quick to grab yourself one!

Designer Bomber Jacket (Get Here).

Ethel Ankara African print Bomber jacket(Get It Here).

The Ethel bomber jacket is your go-to for all trends regardless of who you are and what you are up to. Just layer up in style with this hooded Ankara African print infused bomber jacket for an eye catching outfit.

Kwanzaa Bomber Jacket(Get It Here)

This Best Ankara Print Bomber Jacket are purely made of Kente which is well designed to your liking. They can be worn by both genders as they go with different sizes. The jacket can match with any fashion dressing. It is warm as seen on the picture. Order yours today and walk comfortably. Wholesale is also available in different designs.

Dashiki Hooded Bomber Jacket(Get It Here)

Kente Hoodies, bringing a little African sunshine into the everyday! These comfy unisex hoodies can be teamed up with the matching Nzima Kente Tackies for a look that’s comfy, casual and colourful!

ALSO READ; Afronista Mermaids Graduation Gowns

16. Dashiki Hooded Bomber Jacket(Get It Here).

UNISEX Dashiki Jeans/Denim Hooded Bomber Jacket. Available in Plain Black, Plain Red & Blue jeans Dashiki may vary in colour. Perfect UNISEX jacket for hanging out, can be worn with Jeans, Khaki pants, over a dress etc. Its chic! Its comfy and easy to wear! It also keeps you warm!

CONCLUSION

In the evolving tapestry of fashion, the Best Ankara print bomber jacket for 2024 epitomizes a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. Its kaleidoscope of vibrant patterns and contemporary cuts not only reflects cultural heritage but also embodies a fashion-forward ethos. As we revel in the diverse interpretations and unique designs this year has to offer, the Best Ankara print bomber jacket serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of cultural fusion in the ever-evolving world of fashion. Whether adorned for casual outings or curated for special occasions, its essence remains a testament to individual expression and the captivating allure of African-inspired fashion.

Which is the best Ankara Print bomber jacket would you add to your wardrobe?