African print shirts offer a vibrant and stylish way to express individuality. With bold patterns and rich colours, these shirts can elevate any wardrobe, blending tradition with modern fashion. At EWA London, we take pride in providing high-quality African print shirts that stand out in any setting, from casual gatherings to formal events. Our designs celebrate African heritage while appealing to contemporary tastes, making them versatile and timeless pieces.

Understanding African Print Shirts

African print shirts have deep roots in African culture, symbolising heritage and identity. Popular prints include Ankara, known for its bright, geometric patterns; Kente, with its multicoloured, intricate designs; and Dashiki, which features ornate embroidery. Each type of fabric tells a story, making every shirt unique. Our collection at EWA London celebrates these diverse prints, crafted with attention to detail and authenticity. These prints are not just fashion statements but are also rich in history and cultural significance, representing different African communities and their traditions.

Selecting the perfect African print shirt involves considering several factors:

• Colour: Choose colours that complement your skin tone. For lighter skin tones, opt for bright, contrasting colours that highlight the vibrancy of the prints. For darker skin tones, earthy and jewel tones can enhance your natural complexion.
• Fit and Style: Ensure a good fit; slim fits offer a modern look, while relaxed fits provide comfort. Decide whether you prefer long-sleeved or short-sleeved shirts based on the occasion and your personal style.
• Quality and Craftsmanship: Quality is paramount. At EWA London, our shirts are made with premium fabrics and superior craftsmanship, ensuring durability and style. Look for well-stitched seams and vibrant prints that indicate a high-quality garment.

Tips for Selecting the Right Shirt:

• Occasion: Consider where you’ll be wearing the shirt. Casual outings allow for bolder, more playful prints, while formal events may call for more subdued, elegant patterns.
• Personal Style: Choose prints that resonate with your personal aesthetic. Whether you prefer geometric patterns, floral designs, or traditional motifs, there’s an African print shirt that suits your style.
• Season: Consider the season when selecting colours and fabric weight. Lightweight fabrics and bright colours are ideal for summer, while darker tones and heavier fabrics work well in winter.

• Jeans: Pair your shirt with classic blue or black jeans. Rolled-up cuffs can add a relaxed vibe.
• Shorts: Opt for tailored shorts in neutral colours. Khaki or navy shorts work well with bold prints.
• Footwear: Sneakers or casual loafers complete the look. White sneakers can add a fresh, modern touch.
• Accessories: Keep it simple. A pair of stylish sunglasses, a casual hat, or a wristwatch can enhance your outfit without overpowering it.

Example Outfits:

• Day Out: Bright Ankara shirt, blue jeans, white sneakers, and sunglasses.
• Evening Gathering: Subdued Dashiki shirt, black chinos, loafers, and a casual hat.

          Styling for Formal Events

          African print shirts can be a bold statement at formal events. Pair your shirt with tailored trousers or chinos in solid, complementary colours. For footwear, loafers or dress shoes are ideal. Accessorise with a sleek watch and subtle cufflinks to enhance the formal appeal. Consider tucking in the shirt for a polished look, and choose prints with elegant patterns and subdued colours for a sophisticated appearance. EWA London’s collection includes refined designs perfect for making a memorable impression at formal gatherings.

Formal Styling Tips:

• Trousers: Choose well-tailored trousers in solid colours. Black, navy, or grey are excellent choices.
• Footwear: Leather loafers or oxford shoes add a touch of elegance.
• Accessories: Opt for a sleek watch and minimal jewellery. Cufflinks can add a sophisticated touch if you’re wearing a long-sleeved shirt.
• Layering: A well-fitted blazer or sports jacket can enhance the formal look. Choose neutral tones to complement the shirt’s pattern.

Example Outfits:

Semi-Formal Styling Tips:

• Chinos: Dark or neutral-coloured chinos are versatile and complement most prints.
• Blazers: Opt for a well-fitted blazer in a solid colour. Grey, navy, or black are safe choices.
• Footwear: Chelsea boots or casual dress shoes work well. Avoid overly formal shoes to maintain the semi-formal vibe.
• Accessories: A stylish belt, a scarf, and a casual watch can complete the look.

Example Outfits:

• Smart Casual: Bold Ankara print shirt, beige chinos, brown Chelsea boots, and a matching belt.
• Cocktail Party: Subdued print shirt, dark jeans, grey blazer, casual dress shoes, and a scarf.

Traditional events call for a celebration of heritage. Pair your African print shirt with traditional attire such as agbada or kente cloth wraps. For footwear, traditional sandals or loafers work well. Accessorise with traditional items like beads, hats, or intricate jewellery to honour cultural significance. Opt for prints that are rich in symbolism and vibrant in colour to truly stand out. At EWA London, our designs are inspired by traditional motifs, perfect for cultural celebrations and ceremonies.

Traditional Styling Tips:

• Traditional Bottoms: Pair with agbada, kente cloth, or other traditional attire to enhance the cultural aspect.
• Footwear: Traditional sandals or simple loafers are appropriate.
• Accessories: Incorporate traditional accessories such as beads, traditional hats, or intricately designed jewellery.
• Layering: In colder weather, add a traditional overcoat or shawl that complements the print.

Example Outfits:

• Cultural Ceremony: Vibrant Kente print shirt, traditional agbada, leather sandals, and traditional beads.
• Family Gathering: Elegant Ankara shirt, kente cloth wrap, traditional loafers, and a beaded necklace.

• Business Meeting: Subtle Kente print shirt, navy tailored trousers, black leather loafers, and a matching belt.
• Formal Dinner: Elegant Dashiki shirt, black chinos, oxford shoes, and a sleek watch.

Traditional events call for a celebration of heritage. Pair your African print shirt with traditional attire such as agbada or kente cloth wraps. For footwear, traditional sandals or loafers work well. Accessorise with traditional items like beads, hats, or intricate jewellery to honour cultural significance. Opt for prints that are rich in symbolism and vibrant in colour to truly stand out. At EWA London, our designs are inspired by traditional motifs, perfect for cultural celebrations and ceremonies.

Traditional Styling Tips:

• Traditional Bottoms: Pair with agbada, kente cloth, or other traditional attire to enhance the cultural aspect.
• Footwear: Traditional sandals or simple loafers are appropriate.
• Accessories: Incorporate traditional accessories such as beads, traditional hats, or intricately designed jewellery.
• Layering: In colder weather, add a traditional overcoat or shawl that complements the print.

Example Outfits:

• Cultural Ceremony: Vibrant Kente print shirt, traditional agbada, leather sandals, and traditional beads.
• Family Gathering: Elegant Ankara shirt, kente cloth wrap, traditional loafers, and a beaded necklace.

Mixing African prints with solid colours can create a balanced and eye-catching outfit. When layering different prints, ensure they share a common colour scheme to avoid clashing. Start with a bold print shirt and pair it with solid-coloured trousers or skirts. Alternatively, mix subtle patterns with bold prints for a dynamic look. Experimenting with combinations can result in unique and personalised styles. EWA London offers a range of prints that can be easily mixed and matched, allowing for creative expression while maintaining a cohesive look.

Tips for Mixing Patterns:

• Common Colour Scheme: Ensure different prints share at least one common colour.
• Balance: Pair bold prints with subtle ones to avoid overwhelming the outfit.
• Layering: Use solid colours as a base and layer with prints for a harmonious look.
• Scale of Patterns: Combine large-scale prints with smaller-scale patterns to create visual interest without clashing.
• Accessorising: Keep accessories minimal when mixing prints to maintain a clean look.

Example Outfits:

• Bold and Subtle: Pair a vibrant Ankara shirt with subtle printed trousers that share a common colour. Add a solid-coloured blazer to balance the look.
• Contrasting Prints: Mix a bold Dashiki shirt with a subtly patterned scarf. Wear with solid trousers and minimal accessories to keep the outfit cohesive.
• Layering Patterns: Wear a large-scale Kente print shirt with a small-scale patterned jacket. Ensure both prints have a common colour, and keep the rest of the outfit neutral.

Maintenance and Care Tips 

Proper care of your African print shirts ensures they remain vibrant and durable. Here are some tips to keep your shirts looking their best:

• Washing: Wash the shirts in cold water to prevent colours from fading. Use mild detergent and avoid using bleach.
• Drying: Air drying is preferable to maintain the fabric’s quality. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent discolouration.
• Ironing: For wrinkles, iron on the reverse side of the fabric using a low heat setting. Avoid ironing directly on the print to protect the colours.
• Storage: Store the shirts in a cool, dry place. Use padded hangers to maintain the shape of the shirt.

• Quick Fixes: For minor issues like wrinkles or small tears, use a steamer for quick wrinkle removal and a fabric glue for small repairs.

At EWA London, we provide high-quality prints that, with proper care, will stay beautiful and vibrant for years.

Conclusion: African Print Shirts

African print shirts are a fantastic addition to any wardrobe, suitable for various events from casual outings to formal gatherings. By understanding how to style them appropriately, you can showcase your individuality and stand out from the crowd. At EWA London, we offer a diverse range of high-quality African print shirts designed to make you look and feel your best. Embrace the vibrancy and elegance of African prints, and let your style speak volumes.