Why African Print is Gaining Popularity in the United States and the Rest of the World

Afrocentric fashion is blossoming all across the globe. Fashion runways, in stores, online, and main streets in London, Paris, New York, everywhere you look- a style shaped by the African fabric. Undoubtedly, African print has become ubiquitous in fashion for people of all colors, races, and creeds.

Africans in the diaspora are increasingly donning African-inspired prints to affirm and reinstate their identity in a foreign land. Flaunting an Ankara head wrap or a Kente maxi dress has become a means of identifying with African heritage.

We’ve seen African print penetrate Hollywood. The Woman King and Black Panther boldly showcased the richness of African traditions through their costumes. Celebrities are also not being left behind. From Beyonce to Chris Brown to Rihanna, they’ve all graced the print to red carpets, during performances, and on the streets.

Celebrities Beyonce, Gwen Stephanie, and Rihanna rocking in African Print

We cannot forget the several occasions that Michelle Obama, the former First Lady of the United States, has elegantly worn an African print outfit.

According to Euromonitor, Sub-Saharan Africa’s clothing is estimated to be worth $32 billion. This massive growth is attributed to expanding local and foreign brands into the African clothing market. African clothing fashion houses are fulfilling increasing orders, particularly from Americans in America and Europe.

Over the past few years, there has been massive creation of African-based e-fashion platforms. This wave is attributed to fashion companies fulfilling increasing orders from Africans in the diaspora, particularly in America and Europe. Non-Africans are also not being left behind as they have become popular consumers.

For years, Alicia Keys has continued to be bold and beautiful in her minimalistic no-makeup look. However, she complements her natural beauty with outfits and accessories that often include intriguing African print headwraps.

Image from GoogleAlicia Keys in an Ankra top, her with minimal makeup donning African print headwraps

Kim Kardashian, Gwen Stefani, Lydia Hearts, Lady Gaga, and Droya Michele are some non-African celebrities who have stepped out rocking African print outfits.

The question is, Why is African Print Becoming Popular in the West?

African print has gained global popularity due to its striking features presented by bright colors and patterns. All earth-inspired colors are available, from black to yellow to green to clear gold. The design and texture of the fabric also make any garment made from it unique and attractive.

The fabrics are versatile and can be used to make any clothing, from gowns, dresses, trousers, shorts, tops, coats, and shirts to jackets. African print fabrics are also used to make fashion accessories such as bags, shoes, head wraps, earrings, neck pieces, and many more.

You are never limited in fashion when African print fabric is involved.

If you’re still not convinced why you need to embrace the African print trend, consider the following:

  • The fabrics are unique, and wearing them is one way of selling our African culture
  • They are colorful and pleasing to the eye
  • They are versatile
  • They have gained international attention
  • Beautifully designed to suit any occasion.

With celebrities and influential people embracing African print all across the globe, it’s no doubt that African print is here to stay.

Furthermore, it can be customized and accessorized in different ways to suit your modern style for work and social functions.

Visit our African print online store to shop for different looks.

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