Mixing & Matching 101: How to Blend African Prints with Your Wardrobe Basics

Isioma Women's African Print Maxi Skirt

 

African prints are bold, beautiful, and deeply rooted in culture. Blending them with your everyday basics creates a modern, confident look that honors tradition while embracing personal style. Whether you're new to African fashion or already have a closet full of Ankara styles, learning to mix prints with wardrobe staples opens the door to powerful, expressive outfits you can wear anywhere.

Why Mix African Prints with Basics?

 

Wearing African-inspired fashion is more than a trend—it’s a celebration of heritage and individuality. When you integrate these prints into your everyday wardrobe, you’re not just making a style statement. You're connecting with culture and telling your story with pride.

Mixing African prints with basics also makes styling easier. A bold wax print blazer paired with jeans? Effortless. A dashiki top with black slacks? Instantly iconic. You don’t need a full set to make an impact—just one powerful piece and the confidence to wear it.

Start with a Statement Piece

 

Choose one standout item to build your outfit around. African print garments—like an Ankara skirt, kente pants, or a wax print kimono—are naturally vibrant, so let them take center stage.

Examples to Try:

• Ankara Skirt + White Tee: Tuck in the shirt to highlight the waistline and allow the print to shine.
  
  

• Kente Joggers + Black Tank: The slim, minimal top keeps focus on the pants' intricate pattern.
  
  

• African Print Blazer + Jeans: Pair with denim and heels for a polished, boss-level look.
  
  

Stick to one print per outfit when starting out. Once you gain confidence, feel free to play with print-on-print layering.

Isioma Women's African Print Maxi Skirt

 

Keep Your Basics Neutral and Fitted

 

African fabrics are known for their rich colors and bold motifs. To balance the look, stick with basics in neutral shades like black, white, beige, or denim. Fitted pieces work best—baggy basics can compete with the print’s structure.

Go-To Wardrobe Staples:

• White or black crew neck tees
  
  

• Fitted turtlenecks or crop tops
  
  

• Tailored denim jeans
  
  

• Simple trousers or midi skirts
  
  

• Classic button-down shirts
  
  

Think of your basics as the canvas and the African print as the art.

Don’t Be Afraid to Accessorize

 

Accessories can tie everything together—or elevate your outfit to the next level. African-inspired accessories, like beaded earrings or printed headwraps, allow for subtle cultural touches when your main outfit is more subdued.

Ideas:

• Add a printed clutch to a monochrome outfit
  
  

• Style a headwrap to match your African print skirt
  
  

• Pair bold jewelry with neutral basics to echo your look's energy
  
  

Mixing accessories lets you bring African style into even the simplest of outfits.

Color Coordination is Key

 

African prints use color intentionally—every hue tells a story. When styling, identify one or two colors in your printed piece and echo them in your basics or accessories.

Example: If your Ankara top features gold and burgundy, pair it with a burgundy skirt or gold hoops to create harmony.

Avoid color clashing unless you're going for a maximalist look. Even then, do it with purpose.

 

 

Patterns, Textures & Confidence

 

Once you’re comfortable, try mixing textures and subtle patterns. A wax print pencil skirt looks stunning with a ribbed knit top. A jacquard blazer pairs beautifully with Ankara pants if the color palette connects.

The secret ingredient? Confidence. These looks aren’t just about fabric—they’re about feeling bold, grounded, and authentically you.

 

 

FAQs

What are the easiest African prints to style for beginners?

Ankara and kente prints are both versatile and beginner-friendly. Choose prints with two or three colors and simple patterns for easier styling.

Can I mix different African prints in one outfit?

Yes—but start slow. Keep the color palette similar across prints and mix one small pattern with one large to avoid visual clutter.

Is it okay to wear African prints casually?

Absolutely. African prints can be styled for casual settings with jeans, tees, sneakers, or flats. It’s all about how you pair them.

How do I know if the print overpowers my look?

If the outfit feels too “loud,” tone down the accessories or swap one printed piece for a neutral item. Balance is the goal.

What fabrics are used in African prints?

Common materials include wax cotton, kente (woven silk/cotton), mudcloth, and batik. Each offers a unique texture and visual feel.

Conclusion: Own Your Look, Honor Your Roots

Blending African prints with wardrobe basics isn’t just a fashion choice—it’s self-expression. It’s about honoring your roots while showing up boldly in the present. Whether you start with a dashiki tunic or a printed skirt, remember: you don’t need permission to stand out.

Ready to build your look?
Explore our latest D’IYANU summer collection for modern African fashion that blends tradition with trend. And follow us on Instagram for fresh styling inspiration every week.