African prints, also known as Ankara prints or Dutch Wax prints, have become an iconic fashion staple across Africa and beyond. Characterized by their colorful patterns and unique designs, African prints add vibrant flair to any outfit. One garment that particularly shines when made with these lively fabrics is the peplum top. With its feminine ruffled hem flaring out at the waist, the peplum style flatters a variety of body types. Combining this charming silhouette with dynamic African prints creates a showstopping look. In this article we talk about african print peplum top.
A Brief History of African Prints
The origins of African prints can be traced back to Indonesian batik fabrics that were brought to Africa by Dutch traders in the 19th century. Local African seamstresses started incorporating the batik prints into their own fabric designs, which eventually evolved into the African prints we know today. Traditional African prints often feature bold geometric shapes or nature-inspired motifs like trees and animals. The colors and patterns carry deep cultural symbolism. Brighter shades represent joy and vibrancy, while subdued earth tones signify peace and harmony.
As African prints grew in popularity, more modern designs also emerged, depicting everything from African leaders to traditional masks. The fabrics remain manufactured across parts of West Africa and the Netherlands. Major African print brands include Vlisco, Woodin and Akosombo Textiles Limited.
Today, African prints are beloved not just for their beauty but also as a celebration of African identity and heritage. They can be found across high fashion runways as well as local African market stalls.
The Allure of the Peplum Silhouette
The peplum is named after the short overskirt style worn in ancient Greek and Roman times. It had a resurgence in the 1940s and 50s as designers like Christian Dior introduced peplum jackets and blouses into their collections. The flattering peplum shape accentuates the waist and adds a touch of retro-inspired flair.
In recent years, peplum tops have become a mainstream fashion staple, available from mass retailers to luxury brands. The ruffled overlay panel flatters women of all body types by elegantly skimming over the waist and hips.
For many African women, the peplum style also draws inspiration from traditional blouses and agbada robes worn across parts of the continent. Similar to the peplum, these indigenous garments often featured loose layers, wraps and flounces around the midsection. By pairing this familiar silhouette with lively African prints, contemporary African designers give a modern twist to traditional textiles and shapes.
Creating Showstopping Looks with African Print Peplum Tops
From casual weekends to dressy events, African print peplum tops make a gorgeous focal point for any outfit. Here are some ideas for styling these eye-catching pieces:
For a laidback look, pair your peplum top with jeans or leggings. Neutral blue or black bottoms allow the vibrant colors and patterns to truly stand out. Finish off with flat sandals or sneakers for daytime comfort and chicness.
For the office or a daytime event, tuck your peplum top into a sleek pencil skirt or trousers. This polished silhouette works beautifully with ornate African prints that feature intricate details like paisleys and floral motifs. Complete your outfit with kitten heels for a professional vibe.
When evening cocktails or events come around, let your African print peplum top shine as your glam statement piece. Style it over a sleek black maxi skirt or tailored trousers. Strappy heels and statement jewelry complement the top’s vibrancy. Sleek your hair into a low bun so all eyes remain on that stunning peplum shape.
For a modern African queen look, rock your peplum blouse with vibrant Ankara print pants or a wrap skirt featuring the same or complementary fabric patterns. Finish off with beaded sandals and a striking African-inspired headpiece or hat. This matching print look celebrates African style from head to toe!
Must-Have Styling Tips
When wearing an African print peplum top, keep these styling tips in mind:
- Choose bottoms in neutral or muted colors to let your peplum pop as the focal point. Bright bottoms can compete too much with an already vibrant blouse.
- Pay attention to print scale as you coordinate pieces. Pair tops and bottoms with similarly sized or proportional prints. Mixing dainty florals with oversized geometrics might look too mismatched.
- Cinch your waist in with a belt to define your silhouette and show off the peplum shape.
- Don’t be afraid to accessorize! Stacked bangles, hoop earrings and African print head wraps take your look to the next level.
- If your peplum top features a busy, large-scale print, keep other accessories more minimal.
Have fun and get creative mixing colors, patterns and shapes as you style your African print peplum tops!
DIY Tips for Creating Your Own African Print Peplum Top
Ready to try making your own African print peplum top? Follow these simple tips to craft a beautiful DIY piece!
Fabric Selection
The most important step is choosing an African print fabric that you absolutely love. Bold wax prints or colorful kitenge fabrics make stunning peplum blouses. Visit your local African fabric shop or online retailer like Vlisco and take your time feeling and assessing different textiles. Ensure the fabric has enough structure to hold the peplum shape rather than drape too softly.
Pattern Adjustments
Start with a basic cropped top or blouse pattern that already has some shape at the waistline. Extend the pattern piece a few inches below the waist to create the peplum overlay extension. Flare out the side seams gently into an A-line shape. For a ruffled peplum edge, lengthen the hem into a curved line shape.
Cutting and Sewing
Lay out your adjusted pattern pieces onto your selected African print fabric. Ensure that any directional patterns remain properly oriented. Carefully cut out both the main blouse piece and the peplum overlay extension.
Sew the side seams of the main top, then attach the peplum piece at the waistline using a wide zig-zag stitch. Try on the garment and tweak seam allowance widths until you achieve your desired flared peplum shape.
Hem the sleeves, neckline and peplum piece using narrow rolled hems so edges remain neat and tidy. Add closures like buttons or zippers at the back opening.
Personalize Your Design
Have fun customizing your DIY African print peplum top to suit your unique style. Play with different peplum lengths, add decorative trim or embroidery, or experiment mixing multiple coordinating prints!
The possibilities are endless when you tap into the vibrant world of African print fashions. Whether purchased or handmade, an African print peplum top serves as a wearable symbol of African culture and brings a joyful pop of color to any wardrobe. So twirl freely and let your beautiful peplum shape take flight! I sincerely hope you find this “african print peplum top” article helpful.