Ankara dresses are known for their striking patterns and vibrant colours, and choosing the perfect jewelry to pair with them can elevate your look to a whole new level. The key is to complement the boldness of the fabric without overwhelming the outfit. Here’s a guide to selecting the right jewelry for your Ankara dress style.
- For Bold And Bright Ankara Prints
When your Ankara dress features loud, intricate prints with vibrant colors, let the fabric take center stage. Opt for simple and understated jewelry to balance the look.
Necklace: Go for a dainty gold or silver chain, or skip the necklace altogether if the dress has a high neckline or statement collar.
Earrings: Small stud earrings, such as pearls or minimalist metallic pieces, are perfect.
Bracelets/Rings: A single bracelet or a sleek ring can add a touch of sophistication without clashing with the print.
- For Ankara With Subtle Patterns
If your Ankara dress has more muted tones or minimal patterns, you can afford to go bolder with your jewelry.
Necklace: Choose a statement necklace think chunky beads, multi-layered chains, or bold pendants in colors that highlight the tones of your dress.
Earrings: Drop earrings or hoops in complementary hues can enhance the look.
Bracelets/Rings: Layered bangles or an oversized cocktail ring can add a playful yet elegant touch.
- For Strapless Or Off-shoulder Ankara Dresses
With a neckline that showcases your collarbones, you have more room to experiment with jewelry.
Necklace: A choker or short statement necklace works beautifully. For a more modern twist, a layered necklace with different lengths can add dimension.
Earrings: Long, dangling earrings can frame your face and highlight your shoulders.
Bracelets/Rings: A cuff bracelet or stack of rings can complete the look.
- For Ankara Dresses With High Necklines
High-neck Ankara dresses often have intricate details around the collar, so skip the necklace and focus on earrings instead.
Earrings: Bold earrings, such as oversized hoops, tassels, or geometric designs, draw attention to your face without competing with the dress.
Bracelets/Rings: A bold bracelet or layered rings can add a subtle accent.
- For Ankara Dresses With Sleeves
Sleeved Ankara dresses often have a sophisticated vibe, so keep the jewelry sleek and elegant.
Necklace: A pendant necklace or lariat-style chain works well, especially with V-neck or scoop neck designs.
Earrings: Go for medium-sized earrings, such as teardrops or cluster studs.
Bracelets/Rings: Avoid chunky bracelets if the sleeves are long or have dramatic details; instead, opt for a simple ring or a thin bracelet.
- For Ankara Maxi Dresses
Maxi dresses are effortlessly chic, and your jewelry should reflect their flowy, elegant style.
Necklace: A long necklace or layered chains can complement the length of the dress.
Earrings: Medium to large earrings, like hoops or ethnic-inspired pieces, pair well with the dramatic look of a maxi dress.
Bracelets/Rings: Bangles or an arm cuff can add a bohemian touch.
Tips For Choosing Jewelry With Ankara
Match Colors Thoughtfully: Pull one or two colors from your Ankara print and choose jewelry that highlights those shades.
Mind the Occasion: Go for bold, colorful jewelry for casual events and toned-down, classic pieces for formal occasions.
Experiment with Afrocentric Jewelry: Ankara pairs beautifully with beaded, wooden, or cowrie-shell jewelry for a cohesive Afrocentric look.
Avoid Overloading: If your dress has many details, stick to one statement piece, such as bold earrings or a chunky necklace never both.
