Ankara is often referred to generally as African print. More specifically, these bright, bold and graphic prints are West African. They are wax prints, sometimes called block prints, usually worn in celebration.
Ankara has always been worn in the United States by people with near and far African roots but it is currently gaining more widespread popularity. The opening of Black Panther saw a spotlight on modern and traditional African prints and designs. The movie has even led to increased demand for African clothes from Nigeria, Tanzania, Ghana, Cameroon, Liberia and more.
The most authentic and up to date styles will come from African brands available on-line. There are also a number of beautiful options available through Etsy shops and Amazon sellers. Many of these brands are not truly plus size. If you can’t find a print and size you like, many Etsy stores will custom make a skirt for you.
Here are a few of our favorite plus size African print maxi skirts.
ÖFUURË offers African print maxi skirts up to size 3x. This skirt has side pockets. Check out the rest of the website for more prints and designs.
L’Aviye Nalika Blue Ankara Maxi Skirt With Side Slit Pockets
L’Aviye merges African fabrics and Western silhouettes. Available up to size 16, this handmade in the United Kingdom maxi skirt features a sexy slit to show a little or lot of leg plus handy side pockets.
Afibi African Print Casual Maxi Skirt
Available through Amazon, Afibi offers maxi skirts in four geometric Ankara patterns up to size 3x. These are a cheaper option because they are satin comprised of 95% polyester and 5% Spandex but come very highly rated.
D’Iyanu Geometric Print Maxi Skirt with Sash
There are also traditional and modern cuts for African print maxi skirts. Started by Nigerian-born Addie Olutola, all D’IYANU was clothes have roots in Africa but are manufactured in Philadelphia. This bold and beautiful skirt comes with a sash that can be worn tied into a bow at the waist or left off. It also features side pockets. It is available up to size XXL for a 40″ waist.
PricelessCulture Dashiki Skirt
This Etsy store makes African print maxi skirts up to size 28 for a 51″ waist. Each item is handmade and the prices vary by size. You can also contact the store for special orders.