Ankara, also known as African wax print, is a type of brightly colored cotton fabric that is widely used in West Africa to make traditional clothing. The fabric is known for its vibrant patterns and bold colors, which are inspired by the culture and customs of the people who use it.
Let us now look at the most popular traditional style.
Bubu
This is one of the most popular traditional Ankara styles is the "bubu" or "boubou" for men. This is a long, flowing robe that is worn over a pair of pants. The robe is typically made from a lightweight fabric and features a V-neck collar and wide, loose sleeves. The bubu is often worn at special occasions such as weddings and ceremonies and is considered a symbol of elegance and sophistication.
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Kaba and Slit for women
This style features a long, flowing gown with a high-low hemline and a slit up one side. The kaba and slit are often worn at formal occasions such as weddings and are a popular choice for brides. The dress is typically made from a lightweight fabric and features a fitted bodice and a full skirt. The dress is paired with a matching headwrap and earrings to complete the look.
The "iro and buba" is another traditional Ankara style for women that is very popular. This style features a blouse, known as the "iro", and a wrapper, known as the "buba". The iro is usually a long-sleeved blouse that is worn tucked into the buba. The buba is a long, flowing wrapper that is wrapped around the waist and then tucked into the waistband. The iro and buba are considered versatile outfits that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
Senator style for men
Ankara style that stands out is the "senator" style for men. This style features a long-sleeved, button-up shirt and a pair of pants.
The shirt is typically made from a lightweight fabric and features a pocket on the left chest. The pants are typically made from a matching fabric and are worn with a belt. The senator style is a popular choice for men in West Africa and is often worn to formal occasions such as weddings and ceremonies.
Kente
Finally, the "kente" is a traditional Ankara style that is known for its intricate patterns and bold colors. Kente is a type of cloth that is made by weaving together strips of brightly colored fabric. The cloth is often used to make traditional clothing such as skirts, shawls, and headwraps. The kente is considered a symbol of wealth and status, and is often worn by West African kings and queens.
Ankara styles are diverse and stand out due to their vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and cultural significance. From the elegant "bubu" to the versatile "iro and buba", traditional Ankara styles are a reflection of the culture and customs of the people who use them. They are still worn today on many occasions and events, keeping their traditional values and representing the rich cultural heritage of West Africa.
