Figuring out office fashion can feel like walking a fine line. You want to be stylish, professional, comfortable, and maybe just a little bit you. For many women, that personal touch comes through vibrant Ankara prints. But there's always that tiny voice asking: Can I really wear Ankara to work? The short answer? Absolutely. The longer answer? Let’s talk about how to do it right.
Why Ankara Belongs in the Office
Ankara, also known as African wax print fabric, has come a long way from being considered “too casual” or “too traditional” for the workplace. Designers today are proving that with the right cuts and pairings, Ankara can look as crisp and professional as any pinstripe or pencil skirt. It's bold, beautiful, and tells a story, your story. The trick is in styling it with intentionality.
Here’s how to bring Ankara to your office wardrobe: tastefully and confidently.
1. The Camellia Dress + Blazer Combo
If there’s one piece that balances color and structure, it’s the Camellia Dress. With its flattering cut and rich Ankara pattern, it's perfect on its own but pair it with a sleek blazer, and you’ve got a boardroom-ready outfit that says “I came to slay and lead.”
Styling Tip:
Choose a neutral or earth-toned blazer, think beige, tan, navy, or even a deep olive, to balance the print of the Camellia Dress. Complete the look with heeled loafers or classic pumps, and minimalist jewelry. You’ll look effortlessly polished.
2. The Reversible Skirts: Fea, Keeya, Rume, Flora, and Onalenna
These skirts...first, they’re reversible, which means double the outfit options. Second, they feature bold Ankara patterns in flattering A-line and pencil styles that work well for most body types.
What to Pair Them With:
The beauty of these skirts is in their versatility. Here are some smart pairings with English or modern tops to keep things work-appropriate:
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Fea Skirt: Works beautifully with a crisp white button-down shirt tucked in. Add a belt at the waist for extra definition.
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Keeya Skirt: Pair with a soft chiffon blouse, cream, blush, or black, for a soft, elegant office look.
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Rume Skirt: Due to its structured style, it pairs well with a fitted turtleneck or long-sleeve knit top, especially during cooler months.
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Flora Skirt: Try a short-sleeved modern blouse with a collar, preferably in a solid color that complements the print.
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Onalenna Skirt: This one makes a bold statement. Tone it down with a satin or cotton blouse in beige or charcoal grey.
Extra Layer Tip: Throw on a blazer or a cropped jacket and you're good to go for a boardroom presentation or team meeting.
3. Mpho Pants: The Statement Slacks
The Mpho Pants are the tailored dream pants you didn’t know you needed. With their tapered fit and bold Ankara flair, they add personality without overpowering your professional aura.
Style them with:
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Button-down shirts – A classic white or light blue shirt creates contrast and lets the pants shine.
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Blouses with puff or balloon sleeves – Adds a subtle fashion-forward touch.
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Layering pieces:
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Bomber jackets for a laid-back Friday look.
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Long cardigans for a cozy yet structured vibe.
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Vests (especially belted) for that extra layer of chic.
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Trench coats to transition between seasons while staying stylish.
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Footwear tip:
Opt for loafers, ankle boots, or low heels depending on your office’s dress code.
4. Rume and Cheetah Jumpants...As Pants? Yes, Please.
Here’s where we get creative. Did you know the Rume and Cheetah Jumpants (yes, jumpants..not a typo!) can be styled as pants too? That’s right. Fold or style the top portion down, and you’ve got high-waisted, wide-leg Ankara pants ready for the office runway.
Take it from Sophia Okotie Turner, who wore the Cheetah Jumpant styled with a vest while ringing the bell at the New York Stock Exchange in 2024. It was bold, modern, and completely work-appropriate.
Styling Options:
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Wear with a vest: A structured longline vest or cropped vest layered over a plain inner top gives an ultra-chic and smart silhouette.
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Tuck in a fitted blouse or shirt: Especially one in a fabric like crepe, cotton-poplin, or silk to elevate the look.
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Top off with a blazer or coat if the weather calls for it, great for those transitional months.
Accessorizing Tip:
Keep accessories sleek opt for gold or silver studs, a slim wristwatch, and a leather tote bag to round it off.
Final Tips for Wearing Ankara to Work
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Balance is key: If you’re wearing a bold print on the bottom, keep the top simple. And vice versa.
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Fit matters: Tailored Ankara pieces instantly elevate the entire outfit. Avoid anything too tight or too loose.
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Layer smart: Adding blazers, trench coats, or knitwear helps tone down busy prints and makes them more "corporate".
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Confidence is your best accessory: Wearing Ankara to the office might raise some eyebrows, especially if you’re in a more conservative environment. But don’t shrink back. Style it well, walk tall, and you’ll inspire others to bring their full selves to work too.
Next time you’re planning your workwear wardrobe, don’t push those Ankara pieces to the weekend pile. They belong right where you are at the heart of it all, making a statement without saying a word.
Your culture is not a costume...it’s couture. And yes, it belongs in the office.