Hello Ladies! I mean, we all know this article is about us and our love for Ankara styles, am I right? Ankara styles for women are stunning, gorgeous and what’s versatile about it is that they come in man varieties. We have gowns, skirts and blouses, long straight skirts, flare skirts, peplum gowns, A-shaped skirts and even mini-skirt. But what is the true origin of Ankara?

Origin of Ankara

Ankara otherwise known as “African print” has gradually crept its way into the fashion world both locally, globally and internationally. It is a must-have in people’s wardrobes irrespective of origin, tradition or culture.

The origin of Ankara is indeed not Africa but Europe. Surprised, right? I know, I was too!  It was formerly known as “Dutch wax print” down there in Europe. If you ask me, such a  boring long name but trust us Africans to spice up things a notch, have interest in it and associate our culture with this fabric.

Contrary to popular belief, Ankara was not originally from Africa. Ankara, which was formerly known as 'Dutch wax print', was originally manufactured by the Dutch for the Indonesian textile market. These prints garnered more interest in West Africa than in Indonesia itself. pic.twitter.com/HgGJkQQZCf

— Northpad Nigeria (@northpad) January 14, 2022

In Europe, mainly Indonesia (the originality), the fabric was considered and used for only cultural activities and it was mostly worn as a result of its affordability. Even here in Africa, it is affordable within the range of #4500 and more and the rise for its demand is indeed overwhelming.

Permit me to add this, many years ago, Ankara was mostly just a blouse and wrapper (Iro ati buba) but look at us today, you can even get a well-crafted suit made out of Ankara, blazers, gowns, blouses, palazzos, jumpsuits and many more.

Ankara style?

Ankara, “African prints” “African wax prints” “Dutch wax prints” is a 100% cotton fabric with bold styles and vibrant patterns. African prints (Ankara) are made through a dyeing technique called “Batik”.

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In this technique or method, a tool is used to stop the dye from reaching all the fabric. As a result, a pattern is created on the fabric but not created in the part where the tool is either placed or rolled. That is why some patterns you see in Ankara do not have much detailed attention.

Ankara is usually sold per yard, 3 yards, 6 yards and 12 yards. These yards are usually written on the fabric and attached is the company producing the fabric, the cotton and finally the registration number.

Occasions to Wear Ankara

Ankara can be worn regular every day but many people wear it for weddings, special occasions such as birthdays, bridal showers or for simply going out.

Conclusion

Trust me, Ankara types have proven to be an all-rounded style as they can be worn to any occasion, can be worn every day, any day and any time by literally anyone. Despite the fact that the origin of Ankara is Europe and not Africa or that it is intended for Indonesians, doesn’t stop Africans from rocking their Ankara styles proudly.