45+ Fashionable African Dresses to Rock This Year!
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My name is Louisa, and I have an addiction to African dresses! Grab a drink, popcorn, and your wallet because you’ll be exposed to over 45 amazing handmade African dresses, with details on where to get them.
From personal experience, I know there’s nothing worse than finding the perfect dress without knowing where to get it. It’s my goal never to leave you high and dry.
As you scroll through this epic list of one-of-a-kind African wax print dresses, click on the photos below to be directed to the seller’s store for more information and to shop the look.
Contact the seller if an African dress appears sold out or unavailable. The ankara dress might still be available but not relisted in the seller’s store. It never hurts to ask!
Sadly, I am not a designer or a seamstress, so once these African styles sell out, they may be gone forever.
Without further ado and in no particular order, here are my favorite African dresses you need right now (with links to where you can get them).
Ready? 3, 2, 1 —> African dresses 🙂
Please note: This post has been updated to remove sold-out products. The product is no longer available if you can’t find an item.
Super Fashionable African Dresses of 2024
And with African print dresses, I feel confident! I mean it. With African Dresses, you have nothing to worry about.
Follow along, and let’s enter the adventurous world of African dresses that will guarantee to inspire you.
Psst! For the Amazon lovers, here are the top African print dresses available on Amazon:
Last update on 2024-04-09 at 01:36 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
1. Kenya Maxi Dress by L’Aviye
One word for this dress: POWERFUL. This bold ankara print dress is so effortless yet very classy and elegant.
This beautiful fashion piece would look amazing on all body types and can be worn to almost any function, from weddings and graduations to date nights or just a night out with the girls.
2. Tomie Infinity Maxi Dress by Ofuure
Get ready to look like a queen in this gorgeous African dress. The choice is yours with the infinite ways to style this maxi dress. It’s easy to stretch your dollar one outfit at a time.
Also, this infinity style makes the perfect prom dress. Its infinity style and seductive neckline will make you the hottest chica in town.
3. Eva Marie Gold by Gitas Portal
A beautiful African dress with well-structured attention to detail, form-fitting to give you that radiance when you enter the ball.
I love the soothing blend of gold and purple that gives the dress a depiction of royalty. You can accessorize this African print dress to your taste for whatever special occasion you want to make an entrance.
This African dress is fun, vibrant, and a show-stopper, and it has earned its place on this list.
4. Pink Party Dress by With Flare
This flirtatious patchwork ankara dress will have people dancing to the beat of your music.
I took this picture in 2017, and three years later, I wore it for a show during New York Fashion Week — the compliments kept rolling in!
This sweetheart halter dress packs lots of punch with its bodacious flare skirt. You’ll be glad you bought this five-star dress!
5. The Onye Dress by Habby Stitches
This is the perfect African print midi dress to take your day from 0 to 100. The embellished details, sleeveless style, and classic neckline make it a classic piece in your closet.
6. Rehema Ankara Maxi Dress by D’Iyanu
D’Iyanu prides itself on its handmade pieces and the use of high-quality authentic African wax print materials; this chic African print dress is proof of that.
This free-flowing, waist-fitting, long-sleeve dress is well crafted for the young and free and can be styled or accessorized with African print headgear or African-made print jewelry.
7. African Prom Dress by Prudy Fashion Afrique
Shine bright like a diamond in this layered ankara prom dress. One thing that stands out is the fit and flare sleeves; you can tell someone did their homework to create such cohesiveness.
The style itself is terrific; it’s refreshing to have designs in African prints that cut across several occasions. Not every time a party clothes, sometimes smart casual!
The necktie and asymmetric hem make it perfect for smart casual Friday wear to work. Pair this dress with your favorite pumps, and you’ll be set to set the office on fire!
8. Ankara Mermaid Dress by Prudy Fashion Afrique
The first words that came to mind when I saw this dress were ‘elegant yet modest.’ It’s hard not to have so much love for this handmade goodness.
It’s definitely one of the best ankara dresses you’ll ever see.
The sheer detail, style, and colors perfectly complement the creative brilliance. As someone who owns many African print dresses, I’m in awe of this beauty!
9. African Print Maxi Dress by Deeleen Couturier
If you want an African print dress that gives that summer sun, fun-loving, girl-on-the-beach vibes with a blend of a pop of colors and still looks effortlessly simple and pretty, then you must try this maxi dress.
Fashion doesn’t have to be too much; the new glow is simple. From the revealing neckline, well-lined dress, and lightweight feel, it’s a fun dress to have.
10. African Print Button Down Dress by MAEOTTI
You tell yourself you’ll stop shopping when you find the perfect dress. With African print dresses, it’s a vicious cycle. There are so many perfect dresses. This button-down, belted dress got us oohing and ahhing.
You can match it as a jacket on a pair of leggings, wear it as a kimono on a black dress with all buttons flung open and rebellious, or lay low and wear it as a button-down dress with a waist belt.
11. Sleeveless Maxi Dress by Neemo Fashion
You are pretty, no arguments! But some dresses redefine beauty by making you even more beautiful. I firmly believe this one is such a dress!
Just look at the work of art, the necklines, the print color, the gown’s fullness, and the dress’s length! This one is effortless and effortlessly beautiful!
I don’t know what to tell you if you’re not obsessed with maxi dresses. Eat your cake and have it in this elegant ankara dress. Feel like a hopeless romantic in this chic dress.
12. African Kente Short Dress by African Clothing Hub
Get on cloud 9 in this stunning kente mini dress with exaggerated sleeves. Throw on a metal belt to cinch your waist, and get ready to wow the crowd at your next big event.
As simple as it seems, the design elements cannot be ignored. And guess what? It comes with a free headwrap and nose mask, too!
13. Nadia Kimono by Glamz By Ama
Kimonos are a must-have for every fashion lover in this millennium, and you can’t go wrong with the design of African print kimonos.
Africa Print kimono is so chic and radiant with various blends of color. It can be styled for every occasion or special event. You can’t go wrong with loose-fit sleeves, and this Nadia kimono by Glamz By Ama is simply elegant, stress-free, and fresh.
14. High Neck Ankara Dress by Heritage Clothings
Another ankara dress that will knock the heels of your socks off! Slay like there’s no tomorrow in this bad-ass high-neck dress.
I am speechless; that’s how this makes me feel. This is beautiful, elegance personified.
The fullness is what makes this a statement piece! Wear with flats or stilettos for a more dressed-up look. You’ll be wearing this baby on repeat like you replay your favorite songs.
15. Detachable Sleeves Dress by Bespoke by Glory
I was minding my business, perusing Etsy for stunning African dresses (because that’s how I love to spend my spare time) when I came across this detachable-sleeve dress.
My world came to a standstill. Seriously, why do African print dresses have to be so pretty?
Really! This mini dress had me waiting for my next paycheck like yesterday. #SorryNotSorry! And yes, ankara dresses like this are not for the faint.
16. African Maxi Mermaid Gown by Jurafrique
Exude some badassery in this African-print mermaid gown. The vibrant purple magenta will make you a force to be reckoned with.
Elegance and sophistication are all packed into one gorgeous dress. Prom? Say less!
17. Ankara Midi Knee-length Dress by Laviye
Off-shoulders are here to stay! This midi dress is classy and attractive, soft yet inviting. It features three-quarter sleeves and a fit-and-flare bottom that moves beautifully with each footstep.
18. The Kiki Maxi Dress by Habby Stitches
Feel over the moon in this vibrant ankara maxi dress. Maxi dresses are always in style year after year, so why not switch things up a little by rocking this African print dress?
Super-versatile for work, weddings, special occasions, and a casual outing with friends.
19. Linda Infinity Dress by Ofuure
Talk about making a statement! This multiway Ankara print infinity dress with two side pockets is sophisticated and stylish without going overboard.
If you want a dress that will serve you well for weddings, cocktails, parties, and more, you’ve found a winner. And if I might add, this looks like a must-have summertime dress that is attractive and comfortable.
20. African Dress With Slit by Bespoke by Glory
A moment of silence for this ankara high-slit dress. Throw on a chunky waist belt and get ready to serve major hot sauce. Be the talk of the day with this single-strap dress.
21. Benga African Dress by LiLi Creations
This is the perfect cold shoulder flutter sleeve dress for a day out or anywhere your heart desires. The spotlight will be on you, as you will get tons of compliments in this stylish, colorful, off-shoulder Ankara print. The impressions you leave will last forever.
22. Ankara Long Dress by Mohana Kollections
This body-hugging long dress is simply a showstopper. It will accentuate your curves in all the right places. The see-through full sleeves add extra pizzazz to your look.
Make an even bolder statement with a super chic metallic waist belt, which is a must-have in every fashionista’s closet.
23. African Print Midi Dress by Shop Lolater
As much I love African print designs, I love African prints that can fit all body types and still show that feminine modern-day woman power. This well-lined, lightweight African dress with side pockets screams regal and powerful.
24. Jayde Wrap Maxi Dress by MADE INSIDE
The Ankara saga continues with this unapologetically beautiful African print maxi dress with puffy sleeves. I mean, what is a girl gonna do?
This wrap-style dress would make the perfect ankara dress for parties and dinners. This is a masterpiece!
25. Dazzling Patchwork Dress by With Flare
I’ve always wanted a phenomenal African print dress and finally got it! I love this dress (p.s that’s me in the photo). This dress is everything and then some.
It’s all about giving some cold shoulder in this one-shoulder reversible dress. Patchwork is on one side, and contrasting African wax is on the other. Who doesn’t love getting two for the price of one?
26. African Print Layered Mini Dress By Ofuure
Channel your it-girl vibes with this flattering layered mini dress. Wear it as-is with heeled sandals, or style with denim when the weather gets colder.
There’s a wide variety of chic African clothing, but there’s no denying that you’ll hit the jackpot wearing this one!
27. Midi Skater Dress by Zizi Bespoke
Chic! Chic! Chic! Dresses are chic! This dress is very flattering, from the cute necktie to the circular bodice skirt to that well-laid pattern on the bodice. Don’t forget about the stunning cuffed sleeves.
This dress gives a modern twist to a vintage look. Everything about this ankara fit and flare dress blurs the line between a retro and contemporary appeal.
28. Romper with Kimono Sleeves by Flair by Ashi
The sexy cutout V-neck dress will have you pulling out your wallet before you know it. It has pockets, and its satined-lined edges and belt just scream sophistication!
29. Floral Ankara Dress by Shop Lolater
Become the center of attention in this stylish floral ankara dress. Conservative with a dash of oh-la-la all around.
The layout of this print, the colors, and the flounce sleeve are the climax of this outfit. It’s just irresistible!
30. African Midi Knee Length Dress by Ava Apparels
Loose-fitted shift dresses are always a favorite this season. The length and loose-fit design make it perfect for a casual or dressed-up occasion.
I know we already know this by now, but girl, African-style dresses are just the epitome of beauty!
31. African Print Benzina Infinity Dress By Karentino Boutique
For the girl who isn’t afraid to show off those hot legs and beautiful body, this gorgeous cocktail infinity dress has your name written all over it.
A blend of beautifully popping colors, a short and well-fitted dress will make you glow like the summer sun.
32. Leaf Green Mermaid Dress by Zizi Bespoke
The African print saga continues with this ridiculously gorgeous African print prom dress. The deep U-neckline and curves get all the attention, but the cutout detail on the back takes the dress up a notch.
It’s all about giving romantic flairs in this mermaid dress. This mermaid dress is everything!
33. Off Shoulder Pleated Maxi Dress by TribeOfAfrik
The amalgamation of breathtaking African print is the beginning of good things. What tells you about the off-shoulder pleated maxi dress with its alluring high slit and unique cold-shoulder neckline? Mais oui!
34. Ayaba Midi Dress by Yetunde Sarumi
All about that dressed-up look in this sweet and playful handmade Ayaba midi dress from Yetunde Sarumi. The gathered and sensual neckline and slimming style add an appealing vintage flair.
35. Black Dashiki Dress by Rahyma
Another Dashiki print dress because you can never have too many. This is the perfect African dress for any special occasion. This sleeveless African print dress features a high neckline and a classy high-low cut fitted on the waist with an A-line silhouette with hidden pockets. Rahyma does it again!
Interested in more fashionable African print dresses? You’ll love these posts:
36. African Shirt Dress by MELOKANE
This is a fresh multiway two-pocket, simple bespoke piece from MELOKAN for the youthful woman. You can wear it with heels, sneakers, sandals, or flip-flops depending on the occasion.
Among African print dress selections, this is undoubtedly one of the most comfortable and stylish dresses!
37. African Print Mini Dress by Mohana Kollections
No one said simple is boring! This sexy mini dress by MohanaKollections has my eyes set on it. It’s a clean and simple African print bodycon dress with a touch of off-shoulder badness that will keep all eyes on you.
38. Onome African Print Jumpsuit by Ofuure
Jumpsuits have always been a favorite for women, especially at red-carpet shows and events.
Imagine rocking an African-print jumpsuit at a red carpet event; you will be the belle of the ball on that occasion!
This beautifully mixed, colorful, two-sided pocket, waist-belted, long-sleeve African print jumpsuit will put the word bold in fashion.
39. Prom Maxi Dress by Bespoke by Glory
You will live in this African prom dress all day as you steal the spotlight! From the contrasting color block bustier to the elegantly layered mermaid hem with a short train.
Fashionable African print fit like this gown will leave the audience speechless as they gaze in awe at this dress. Oh! It’s made exactly to your requests, too 😀
40. African Print Boho Casual Dress by Haysandy
Make a bold statement with this gorgeous African Boho dress. Rock this chic damsel look whenever you want to switch things up.
The light gathers make this look so tasteful. Plus, it ships free with Prime membership (free trial here).
41. Patchwork African Print Midi Dress by Thelma Williams Africa
You cannot go wrong with too much color, especially when they are so perfectly blended in all the right places, and this simple yet gorgeously looking African print midi dress says it all.
This is a beautifully crafted piece with short sleeves, two pockets, a colorful waist belt, and a combination of different African prints.
42. Bosa Wrap Dress by Habby Rose
Dress to impress in this stunner from Habby Rose. The brilliantly constructed sleeves give your ensemble that je ne sais quoi.
This dress is the perfect blend of mainstream influences on traditional African clothing dress and the perfect addition of vintage glamor to a modern-day dress.
43. Short African Summer Dress by MADE INSIDE
This short African print dress will make you wish your entire wardrobe was filled with African-print clothes. Did you say traditional clothing with an additional touch of chicness? Say no more!
44. Akin Maxi Infinity Dress By Ofuure
I have to say that Ofuure’s pieces are exquisite and glamorous, and this pink bespoke piece is something to die for.
This Africa print maxi dress screams fabulous, and you can rock it with an Africa print headgear, with or without the slit, or u can add a jacket with it. It is a work of art.
45. The Efe Dress by Habby Stitches
OMG! This dress is giving us so much life! The African mermaid dress features the most beautiful tube cut and flowy details. Once you put this on, you’ll never want any other dress.
46. Dashiki Long Dress by Shenbolen
I know this list says 45+ ridiculously chic African dresses. I couldn’t get rid of this hotness. The glamorous dashiki style will leave people trailing behind you.
47. African Top and Skirt Set by Karentino Boutique
This dress is a showstopper! Don’t just wear any dress; rock clothes that will turn heads like this African top and skirt set.
The deep neckline, side slit, and vibrant print complete this smashingly hot outfit. Whew! I bet that just went straight to your cart.
48. The Mira Maxi Dress by Habby Stitches
African dresses are just amazing! What’s not to love about this ankara dress with matching headwrap? The colors, patterns, and style are everything, and then some!
FAQ About African Dresses
What are African dresses called?
The names of African dresses may vary depending on the region or culture. These dresses include Kitenge, Agbada, Dashiki, Boubou, Kente, Kaftan, etc. Learn more about their distinctions here.
Where can I buy authentic African dresses?
Authentic African dresses are available from the following stores: Laviye, Ofuure, D’Iyanu, Etsy, and Ace Kouture.
How do you dress for an African wedding?
The most important thing you must remember is to familiarize yourself with the celebrants’ culture. African weddings are deeply rooted in their cultural traditions hence, you have to know their specific wedding customs first. You must consider their dress code, etiquette guidelines, and the weather and venue.
What is the popular African cloth?
There’s a wide array of unique, beautiful African clothes. However, the most popular African cloth is the Ankara fabric. It has been popular due to its vibrant colors and intricate patterns. Some of the popular African fabrics also include Kente and Dashiki.
What are African men dresses called?
There are two types of African dress for men: traditional and modern. Some traditional African clothing for men is Lace, Leso, Kitenge, Kanzu, Kalasiris, Iro, Gele, and Isiagu. Modern African dresses for men can be African-print bow ties, dashiki tops, and African-print sweaters.
In Summary…
It was difficult to narrow down the best African wax print dresses to only 48.
If you want to purchase any of the styles showcased above, click on the photo to be directed to the seller’s store. I’m a girl with close ties to her roots and a deep admiration for African print dresses.
Remember that most African dresses are handmade and cost much more when ordered than clothes you’ll find at your local retailer.
And be sure to read the cleaning instructions and follow the tailor’s suggestions to ensure the longevity of your one-of-a-kind African dresses.
You might also find this post on how to care for your African-print clothes helpful. Special care must be taken to preserve the life of this delicate fabric.
More About African Dresses & Ankara Clothes
African dresses are so unique that big brands and retailers are beginning to introduce them into their collections. I hope you enjoyed this post as much as I enjoyed creating it.
A big shout out to the ladies and gents who have made it their goal to serve us the best African print styles. My closet would be very sad without their handwork. As always, thank you for stopping by!
I love African dresses for various reasons, including the youthful feeling of wearing dresses.
The diversity in dress styles is another vital excuse to shop for African dresses. I also like the ease of slipping into one-piece clothing and the richness of the African print, which I know I cannot get anywhere else.
Interested in more African dresses and outfits? You’ll love these posts:
Note: This post was originally published in 2017 but was recently updated to include a fresh crop of the best African print dresses!
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Love it
Keep up the good work
I believe in decent dressing. Some are decent while some are not
They are fashionable indeed. Am adding adding some of them to my ladies ankara catalog.
Great article!! We would love to be featured here as well smile ?!
Thank you Kwame 🙂
@Louisa, Absolutely gorgeous. I want every one of them
I’m all too familiar with that feeling Marlene. Rest assured that you’re not alone 😀
What I love about these dresses is with the fabric simplicity is key. The fabrics stands out and like I always say to my friends “Three holes and you have a dress.”. Three holes are the neck and the two arms. (Smile). The prints on the material is the dress. However, the right fit to your body is extremely important to carry off the beauty of the dress.
Claudette you summed it up perfectly! African print clothes are a breathtaking work of art. Finding the right fit will give you a dress that you’ll wear for years to come.
I love them all…keep them coming!!!Ok..
Sure thing! Thanks Brenda 🙂
nice designs
Glad you like them. Thanks for stopping you.
Bonjour
Où peut on trouver ces magnifiques tenues sil vous plaît
J’habite Paris et j’aimerai savoir dans quelle boutique y aller
Merci
Bonjour Marie, vous pouvez obtenir ces tenues en cliquant sur la photo. La plupart des vendeurs expédient à Paris. J’espère que cela t’aides!
Dearest Louisa,
Thank you.
Thank you.
For such a wonderful Website i have to say truly.
I am sending this comment from England.
It’s very difficult to find these types of wonderful websites .
Also helpful tips and hints for African dresses and various collections.
Or to be able to purchase beautiful dresses and other ladies clothing within England.
Please keep up all the great work.
I am sure I speak for myself and so many other ladies from around the world.
We all very grateful and happy indeed.
Looking forward to reading, learning and purchasing from your great website
Warmest regards,
Patience.
xx
I love to look at the blogs and clothes. But am very Frustrated as to where and how to purchase these outfits.
Hi Sharon, each photo is linked directly to the African dress on the seller’s store. Click on the photo or link to be taken directly to the store. If an item is sold out, you can contact the seller to see if there’s a way they can get one made for you. Hope this helps! Let me know if you have any questions.
Love it!
These are all so gorgeous! I am half-South African and I always admire the traditional clothing (and modern renditions!) whenever I visit. So stunning. I wish I could pull these off!
wow
i am breathless/
to nice to be true
These dresses are just beautiful. You have rocked every one you modeled for us. I just love the styles and all the different colors. Thank you so much for sharing this. God Bless
Thank you Linda for the sweet comment. I want every one of them 😀
peux t’on commander ces robes?
Oui, vous pouvez. Cliquez sur la robe pour être dirigé vers le magasin du détaillant.
The colours and the prints… in love
Thank you!
My God, what beautiful colorful dresses…i will be amazed if they do not become the new craze!
I know right? I love them all!
I love the colors, and styles of these dresses. Absolutely fabulous.
They are so gorgeous! I want every one of them 🙂
wow that dress is beautiful.yes l agree l love the colours as well