Dashikis are not just for men! The colorful patterned loose-fitting tops that originated in West Africa have become popular among women as well. Women’s dashiki outfits add a vibrant, artistic touch to any wardrobe. In this article we talk about ladies dashiki outfits charming thoughts on the best way to wear dashiki.
What Is a Dashiki?
A dashiki is a flowing, loose-fitting tunic style shirt that often features colorful prints and embroidered designs. Traditional dashikis come from West African countries like Nigeria, Ghana, and Senegal. The name comes from the Yoruba word “danshiki” meaning “shirt.” The traditional dashiki is a pullover style with an open neckline, loose sleeves, and reaches mid-thigh or below. Modern dashikis for women have incorporated other sleeve styles and lengths.
The Bright, Vibrant Prints
One of the most beautiful aspects of an African dashiki is the stunning, colorful patterns. Traditional prints feature symbols with historical significance to various West African groups. Common motifs include traditional African symbols like the adinkra symbols of the Asante people of Ghana. Abstract prints and batik-style dyeing techniques also create vivid bursts of color. When wearing a dashiki, don’t be shy about bold, brilliant colors and prints! These eye-catching tops are meant to be noticed.
Why Ladies Love Dashikis
So what makes the dashiki so popular with modern ladies? Here are some reasons we can’t get enough of these gorgeous African-inspired tops:
- The beautiful, bright colors and patterns give any outfit a fun splash of vibrance.
- Dashikis are figure flattering. The loose silhouette breezes over curves for a comfortable fit.
- Dashikis allow you to make a style statement and express your individuality.
- African prints connect us to our cultural roots and rich artistic traditions.
- Dashikis represent the pride, power, and fearless spirit of black women.
Tips for Wearing a Dashiki Fashionably
Want to sport dashiki style in a chic, modern way? Follow these tips:
Choose the Right Size
Dashikis are meant to fit loosely, but getting the right size is still essential. An overly boxy shape won’t be flattering. Look for a top that is loose but still skims your frame. The sleeves should be loose and breezy but not baggy.
Pair with Skinny Bottoms
To balance the loose dashiki on top, wear fitted bottoms on the bottom. Pair your dashiki with skinny jeans, leggings, or pants. Sleek bottoms, like black jeans, allow the vibrant dashiki to stand out. Pencil skirts and fitted maxi skirts also look great with flowy dashiki tops.
Cinch the Waist (Optional)
If you want to add more shape to your dashiki outfit, cinch it at the waist. Wear a skinny belt over your dashiki, placed just above your natural waist. This defines your curves while still keeping the breezy silhouette.
Layer Jewelry
Dashikis tend to feature stunning prints and colors, so keep accessories minimal. But don’t be afraid to make a statement! African-inspired jewelry looks gorgeous with a dashiki top. Wooden bangles, beaded necklaces, and oversized earrings pair perfectly.
Rock Natural Hair
A dashiki’s vibrant pride calls for wearing natural textures proudly. So let your natural curls or braids flow beautifully with your African-inspired look. Or sport dashiki style with bold African headwraps, geles, turbans or scarves.
Complete the Look with Sandals
Keep things casual and comfortable with simple sandals, like gladiator sandals, flats, or wedges. Neutral shades go with everything, or match colors to complement your dashiki. Heels can work too for a dressier look. Just aim for sleek silhouettes that don’t compete with your statement-making top.
Examples of Chic Dashiki Outfits for Women
Need a little styling inspiration? Here are some ideas for creating a fashion-forward dashiki look:
The Casual Cool Look
A relaxed yet put-together casual outfit features a red, yellow, green and black abstract print dashiki. Pair it with dark skinny jeans and brown gladiator sandals. Finish with a beaded necklace and oversized shades for an effortless boho-chic look.
The Workwear Style
Yes, you can wear dashiki fashion to the office! Choose a tailored dashiki blouse in navy blue and white with a mandarin collar. Tuck it neatly into a flared midi skirt in navy blue. Slide into black ballet flats and add pearl stud earrings for polished style.
The Date Night Glam
Wow your sweetie in a fitted black pencil skirt with a flowy fuchsia pink and black floral dashiki. Accent with black strappy heels and a black cuff bracelet. Sweep hair up into a topknot to show off dangly beaded earrings. The look says classy and unique.
The Traditional African Queen Look
Connect with your roots in a traditional floor-length dashiki featuring an ornate orange, gold and green pattern. Pair with a black and gold African headwrap and chunky wood bracelets. Carry an African clutch or decorative fan to complement this bold cultural ensemble.
The Chic & Trendy Look
Follow mainstream trends while flaunting your dashiki by pairing a black and white dashiki tunic with leggings or skinny destroyed jeans. Add a long pendant necklace and black booties. Throw a jean or leather jacket on top when it gets chilly while maintaining your stylish look.
As you can see, dashikis offer so many wonderful options for creating cute and fashion-forward looks. Be bold, be vibrant, be adventurous and express your own flair. African prints empower black beauty, culture and fearless female style. So embrace dashiki outfits as a charming way to liven up your fashion game! I sincerely hope you find this “ladies dashiki outfits charming thoughts on the best way to wear dashiki” article helpful.