15 Beautiful Ankara Gown Styles for All Occasion

Hey there fashionistas! I’ve got the scoop on 15 beautiful Ankara gown styles that are perfect for any event on your calendar. I want you to feel your best whether it’s a wedding, party or special night out, and these African print dresses have got you covered. Ankara fabric, with its rich heritage and captivating patterns, has become a major in African fashion.

To start, you can’t go wrong with a classic wrap dress – so flattering and oh so comfy too. Going out in the evening? Pick out a curve-hugging mermaid cut. Feeling bold? Show some skin in an off-the-shoulder neckline. Prefer something more modest? High ruffles or layers make a statement without baring too much.

Ready? Let’s go!

What is Ankara?

Ankara, also familiar as African wax print or Dutch wax, is a sparkling and complex cotton fabric adorned with bold, colorful patterns. The origins of Ankara trace back to the 19th century when Dutch merchants, who were inspired by Indonesian batik techniques, started producing textiles specifically for the West African market. On the other hand, people use Ankara to create different types of garments, ranging from everyday wear to formal attire.

Can you wear Ankara to a wedding?

Ankara prints absolutely makes magnificent wedding guest attire. Whether flowy maxi dresses or fitted bright colors wow at beach weddings while metallic gowns shine formally. Casually, cropped tops and palazzo pants infuse celebration. Either bold prints or solids, Ankara dresses any look while respecting venue and formality. Flexible styles honor cultures joyously at nuptials worldwide. In addition to the above, here are the example of 15 beautiful Ankara gown styles. They include:

#1 Beautiful Ankara Gown Styles – Mermaid Gown

This classic figure is always a popular choice for special occasions. The fitted bodice and dramatic tail make for a glamorous and sophisticated look.

#2 Beautiful Ankara Gown Styles – A-line Gown

This versatile style is flattering on all body types. The fitted bodice and gradually flaring skirt create a balanced and elegant look.

#3 Beautiful Ankara Gown Styles – Trumpet Gown

This flattering figure is similar to the mermaid gown, but the flare starts at the mid-thigh instead of the hips. This creates a more elongated and slimming look.

#4 Beautiful Ankara Gown Styles – High-Low Gown

This playful style is perfect for making a statement. The shorter front and longer back add a touch of drama and intrigue to your look.

#5 Beautiful Ankara Gown Styles – Off-the-Shoulder Gown

This elegant and sophisticated style is perfect for showing off your shoulders. The off-the-shoulder neckline adds a touch of glamour and allure.

#6 Beautiful Ankara Gown Styles – One-Shoulder Gown

This asymmetrical style is both modern and elegant. The one-shoulder neckline adds a touch of drama and sophistication to your look.

#7 Beautiful Ankara Gown Styles – Strapless Gown

This classic style is always a popular choice for prom and other formal occasions. The strapless neckline creates a clean and sophisticated look.

#8 Beautiful Ankara Gown Styles – Halter Gown

This supportive and stylish option is perfect for showing off your shoulders and back. The halter neckline is both flattering and fashionable.

#9 Beautiful Ankara Gown Styles – Empire Waist Gown

This flowing and flattering style is perfect for hiding a little tummy. The empire waistline creates a graceful and elongated look..

#10 Beautiful Ankara Gown Styles – Beaded Gown

This glamorous and sophisticated style is perfect for special occasions. The beads add a touch of sparkle and luxury to your look

#11 Beautiful Ankara Gown Styles – Sequinned Gown

This sparkly and glamorous style is perfect for making a statement. The sequins add a touch of shimmer and shine to your look

#12 Beautiful Ankara Gown Styles – Lace Gown

This delicate and romantic style is perfect for weddings and other special occasions. The lace adds a touch of femininity and elegance to your look.

#13 Beautiful Ankara Gown Styles – Chiffon Gown

This flowing and elegant style is perfect for summer weddings and other warm-weather occasions. The chiffon fabric is light and airy, and it will keep you cool in the heat.

#14 Beautiful Ankara Gown Styles – Embroidered Gown

This delicate and feminine style is perfect for special occasions. The embroidery adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to your look.

#15 Beautiful Ankara Gown Styles – Satin Gown

Lastly, this modern style is perfect for formal occasions. The satin fabric is smooth and shiny, and it will make you feel like a princess.

Can I wear sandals on Ankara?

Sure, you can definitely wear sandals with Ankara! This is actually a very popular combination, as Ankara’s sparkling colors and patterns pair beautifully with the casual comfort of sandals.

With a little bit of planning, you can easily find the perfect sandals to wear with your Ankara outfit. Here are a few examples of sandals that would look great with Ankara:

• Gladiator sandals

These sandals are a great way to add a touch of glamour to your Ankara outfit. They come in different types of styles, so you can find a pair that suits your personal taste.

• Flats

Flats are a adaptable option that can be dressed up or down. They are a great choice for everyday wear, as they are comfortable and easy to walk in.

• Wedges

Wedges are a great way to add a little height to your Ankara outfit without sacrificing comfort. They are also a great choice for special occasions, as they can add a touch of elegance.

• Heels

Heels are the perfect choice for a formal Ankara outfit. They can add a touch of glamour and sophistication to your look.

As a result, no matter what style of sandals you choose, make sure they are comfortable and well-fitting. Overall, you want to be able to dance the night away or walk around sightseeing without having to worry about your feet.

How do you cover shoes with Ankara?

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to cover shoes with Ankara fabric. Materials include: Old or new shoes, Ankara fabric, Fabric glue, Scissors, X-ACTO knife, Ruler, and lastly Pencil.

Instructions:

1. Clean the shoes: Wash the shoes thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Let them dry completely.

2. Cut the fabric: Measure and cut the Ankara fabric to fit the shoes. Make sure the fabric is large enough to cover the entire shoe, including the sides and back.

3. Apply fabric glue: Apply a thin layer of fabric glue to the back of the Ankara fabric.

4. Attach the fabric to the shoes: Carefully attach the Ankara fabric to the shoes, smoothing out any wrinkles or bubbles.

5. Trim the excess fabric: Use scissors or an X-ACTO knife to trim the excess fabric around the edges of the shoes.

6. Let the glue dry: Allow the fabric glue to dry completely, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Once the glue is dry, your shoes are ready to wear! You can customize your shoes by adding beads, sequins, or other embellishments. You can also use this method to cover other items, such as bags, books, or boxes. Have fun and be creative!

Can I wear shorts in Ankara?

Yes, shorts can definitely work with Ankara through the right styling. Tight cycling shorts pair well with oversized matching tops for a sporty look. Cutoff jean shorts and crop tops show a hint of skin in the heat. Flowy linen shorts also make a statement when paired with tucked or billowing blouses. In addition, the key is balance – one loose item offsets form-fitting bottoms. Rock your bold African prints from head to toe this season!

Is Ankara cheap or expensive?

Whether Ankara is affordable or expensive depends on factors like material, design complexity, and origin. Budget options at local stores and online offer basic cotton styles, while high-end versions from top Nigerian designers flaunt rich dyes and weaving that commands higher costs. However, thrifting and artisan collectives provide value pieces for less. Ankara accommodates all budgets if you consider variables that influence cost.

Washing the Fabric

Beautiful Ankara Gown Styles for Wedding

Weddings present the perfect occasion to dazzling Ankara gowns celebrating both the brides’ special day and your African heritage. Here are some stunning styles to steal the spotlight gracefully:

Flowing mermaid cuts beautifully hug curves when walking down the aisle or dancing the night away. Sashes tied high on the bust elegantly cinch maxi dresses highlighting your frame. Ruffled details graciously transitioning from day to night, flowing chiffons softly kiss your shape in coastal breezes.

Lightweight lace overlays stunning solids suited for subtropical climates too. Twisted beading elaborately tracing traditional patterns stands out stately during formal ceremonies.

One-shouldered figure or halter necklines romanticizing your backline artfully complement warm wedded bliss. Embroidered floral elegant high slits livening up your legline accordingly flatter whatever your complexion. By selecting the perfect cuts complementing your shape, Ankara outfits your wedding dazzle impeccably.

Final Thoughts

So in summary, Ankara allows your spirit to dazzle with the joy and liveliness of Africa at celebrations worldwide. With these 15 dynamic styles and designs, your options for wearing the trend transition seamlessly from day-to-dusk. I hope searching different Ankara gowns inspires you to represent your culture proudly through fashion wherever life’s fetes may lead.

Beautiful Ankara Gown Styles FAQs

• What kind of dress can you wear to a wedding?

There are so many lovely options when shopping for a wedding guest dress. Maxi dresses keep you cool at beach weddings while fit-and-flare styles are perfect for cocktail attire. Slip dresses or A-line dresses above the knee work well too. Consider things like venue, weather and formality when choosing. Flowy maxi styles, fit-and-flare figure and slip dresses tend to impress at different types of weddings. Have fun selecting a dress that flatters and feels special for celebrating the happy couple!

• Does Ankara fabric shrink?

Yes, Ankara fabric can shrink, especially after the first wash. This is because Ankara is made of cotton, which is a natural fiber that tends to shrink when exposed to heat and moisture.

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