Ankara fashion is the vibrant and colorful patterned African wax prints that have dominated the international clothing industry and stylists have loved each other. They are also referred to as representations of things “African”. In fact, just a tiny speck of Ankara wax added to a product could redefine that commodity as Afro-centric. We’ve seen American celebrities wearing them, they’ve also been shown on runways, but what do Africa lovers and Africans essentially know about the Ankara wax?
Below you will learn all about Africa’s famous wax printing fabric.
Origin of Ankara Wax
They were originally developed by Dutch companies; A textile mill geared towards Indonesian markets but has instead gained a lot of recognition in West Africa. Therefore, the company shifted its target market from Indonesia to West Africa. The pattern therefore evolved to reflect African cultures.
The materials were initially an attempt by the Dutch to copy Indonesian Java batik. In Indonesia, the material was hand-printed and the patterns were manually drawn on it. The Dutch, on the other hand, used roller printing presses and fade-resistant resin. However, their method produced imperfect wax and failed to take off in their target market.
Ghana, Ankara’s gateway to Africa
There are many theories as to how the African wax prints were introduced to the region, but most speculation has been about the Gold Coast, now known as Ghana. With the acceptance of Ankara wax in West Africa, the patterns evolved to represent Africa as a whole.
Ankara Fashion
Dutch Wax Print, Real English Wax, Veritable Java Print, Guaranteed Dutch Java, Real Dutch Wax Prints, African Wrappers, Aso Ebi, etc. The Ankara wax is known by different names. Made from 100% cotton with vibrant patterns and a wax dyeing technique called batik.
The Ankara fabric has become the fashion trend for people of West Africa; Wealthy and even celebrities around the world enjoy the variety of unique styles of Ankara weave. Ankara fashion is suitable for all body sizes and can be rocked at different occasions or events (formal or informal). And this is the part where the choice of Ankara wax color or pattern is entirely up to you, not to mention how creative your tailor is.
Ankara Styles Earlier Dresses
Ankara styles have revolutionized over the years without restrictions, from the traditional loose blouse and wrap to the bodycon or hugged style. Ankara Swim Suites are making waves in the fashion industry; Peplum tops, jumpsuits, prom dresses, wedding dresses and men’s suits are among the ideas of Ankara style that can be found on catwalks at fashion shows.
The Ankara fabric has become an embroidery inspiration for English-style wedding dresses designed by African brides who live far from the oceans and want to live up to the culture.
African wax print fabric to wow
The African wax print is made in Europe and West Africa is classified into quality categories based on the manufacturing processes. With extravagant colors that adapt to trends, manufacturers are taking risks and experimenting with new designs that are perfect for everyday use.
Depending on the financial possibilities, the multicolored African wax print is usually sown as a dress, apparel, wedding dress, party or garment; an inspirational source for designers and companies. The manufacturer, the name of the product and the registration number of the pattern are printed on the selvage to protect the pattern and allow the fabric quality to be read.
Manufacturer of Ankara Wax
Although the Dutch and English were the initials for many years, there have been more manufacturers and even China has joined the bunch. There’s Da Viva, ABC English Wax, Vlisco and so on. Vlisco, operating since 1846, remains the premium brand. It also owns Woodin, Uniwax and GTP.
Ankara wax products
With the Ankara wax there are no limits to creativity. Below are fashion items made from the African wax print fabric:
- hats
- jewelry
- blazer
- handbags
- wallet
- wristwatch
- shoes
- Belt
- tuxedo
- Necktie
- hand fan etc.