Festival Ready: How to Style Dashikis and Ankara Sets for Outdoor Summer Events

Oumar Men's African Print Mandarin Button-Up Shirt

 

Nothing says “celebration” like African prints in the summer sun. Festivals are where culture, fashion, and freedom of expression collide—and what better way to stand out than with a perfectly styled dashiki or Ankara set? These African-inspired garments aren’t just vibrant—they’re versatile, comfortable, and made for movement. Whether you're dancing in the crowd or vibing in the shade, your outfit should do more than look good—it should tell a story.

Why Dashikis and Ankara Sets Are Festival Favorites

 

Festivals are about connection, joy, and celebration—and African fashion fits right in. Dashikis and Ankara sets bring an effortless blend of bold color, cultural pride, and breathable comfort that’s ideal for outdoor events.

Here’s why they work so well:

• Bold Prints Command Attention: You’ll stand out in the best way possible.
  
  

• Comfort Meets Style: Loose-fitting, short-sleeved, and cotton fabrics keep you cool.
  
  

• Easy to Style: Dress them up or down with just a few accessory changes.
  
  

• Unisex Appeal: Dashikis in particular look powerful on everyone.
  
  

From Afrobeat concerts to food truck festivals and cultural parades, these outfits let you represent your roots while staying on-trend and heatwave-ready.

Choosing the Right Fabrics for Outdoor Heat

 

African prints come in a variety of textiles—some heavy, some light. When it comes to outdoor summer events, stick with breathable materials that keep you cool and stylish under the sun.

Best Fabric Options:

• 100% Cotton Wax Print: Lightweight, vibrant, and naturally breathable.
  
  

• Cotton Blends: Slightly stretchy and more forgiving on the move.
  
  

• Brocade or Light Linen Mixes: Great for elevated, regal vibes at more formal festivals.
  
  

Avoid heavier jacquard or polyester-lined garments unless the weather calls for it. Stay light, stay cool, and keep your body moving freely.

 

 

Tanina Women's African Print Button-Up Bandeau Top

 

How to Style Dashikis for Summer Festivals

 

Dashikis are iconic for a reason. With their loose silhouette and bold embroidery or prints, they’re a canvas for creativity.

Try These Looks:

1. Classic Long Dashiki + Shorts

Perfect for both men and women. Go for a thigh-length dashiki over biker shorts or denim cutoffs. Pair with chunky sneakers or sandals.

2. Cropped Dashiki Top + Maxi Skirt

Great for balancing structure and flow. Add a headwrap or statement earrings for a fierce finishing touch.

3. Oversized Dashiki as a Dress

Let it flow—belt the waist if you want definition. This is an easy one-piece look with room to breathe.

Style Tip: Stick to one bold piece and balance it with neutrals or small patterns. You want your dashiki to lead the outfit, not fight with it.

How to Rock Ankara Sets Without Overheating

 

Ankara sets—matching tops and bottoms—are effortlessly stylish and photo-ready. They’re also easy to mix and match if you want variety throughout the day.

Styling Ideas:

1. Ankara Crop Top + High-Waisted Shorts

Show some skin, stay cool, and command attention. Add platform sandals and you’re festival-fabulous.

2. Button-Up Ankara Shirt + Relaxed Trousers

Perfect for men and women going for a chill, coordinated vibe. Roll up the sleeves and pop on a straw hat.

3. Wrap Top + Flared Skirt Combo

Twirl-friendly and full of energy. Choose prints that reflect your mood—florals for a soft vibe or geometrics for a more structured look.

Pro Styling Hack: Tuck in the top or tie it at the waist to add dimension. For longer events, bring a second top to freshen up your look after sunset.

Must-Have Accessories to Complete the Look

 

The right accessories elevate your outfit from nice to unforgettable. Think bold, functional, and Afrocentric.

Festival Accessory Essentials:

• Statement Earrings or Necklaces: Cowrie shells, beaded hoops, gold-tone metals.
  
  

• Headwraps or Bonnets: Not only stylish, but also protect your hair from sun or sweat.
  
  

• Printed Crossbody Bags or Waist Packs: Keep your hands free for dancing and eating.
  
  

• Shades: Go big or go bold—color-tinted lenses or oversized black frames are both great picks.
  
  

• Layered Bracelets or Anklets: They shimmer while you move—why not?
  
  

Avoid anything too heavy or hard to manage. Function meets fashion here.

Comfort is Culture: Dress to Move and Express

 

The key to a great festival outfit? You feel as good as you look. African fashion has always embraced both beauty and utility, and outdoor events demand both.

Tips for all-day comfort:

• Wear comfortable footwear—closed-toe sneakers, espadrilles, or cushioned sandals.
  
  

• Carry a mini fan or portable mister to cool off.
  
  

• Choose breathable undergarments—especially with tighter Ankara sets.
  
  

• Bring a light scarf or wrap in case the temperature dips after dark.
  
  

This isn’t just about being seen—it’s about feeling empowered, grounded, and joyful.

FAQs

 

Can I wear African prints to non-African festivals?

Absolutely. African fashion is for everyone who respects and celebrates the culture. Wear it with pride and knowledge.

How do I protect my prints during long, sunny days?

Use a fabric-safe UV spray or stay in shaded areas. Always wash with care to preserve color vibrancy.

What’s the best footwear to pair with dashikis?

Comfortable sneakers, African print slip-ons, or strappy sandals work great. Avoid heels or anything that can’t handle grass and dirt.

Can I mix different prints in one outfit?

Yes—just make sure they share similar colors or patterns. Contrast print size (small vs large) for better balance.

What type of bag should I bring to a festival?

Crossbody bags or printed waist packs are best. They’re secure, lightweight, and hands-free.

Conclusion: Celebrate Culture in Every Step

 

From sunrise drum circles to late-night dance sets, your dashiki or Ankara outfit can carry you through it all. African prints are bold, joyful, and unapologetically powerful—just like you. So show up proud, show up vibrant, and show the world what modern African fashion looks like at full volume.

Explore D’IYANU’s latest festival-ready styles and follow us on Instagram for live styling inspiration and customer looks from events around the globe.