5 Inspiring African Prom Dress Design Ideas
African fashion is not only a hot trend right now, but it has a long history behind it. It truly is a unique fashion statement.
An African prom dress is a great idea if you want to steal the show and be the queen of the night. Not only do these dresses highlight the culture of these prints, but they also provide some unique colors and patterns. It will make your prom dress stand out from crowd of traditional colors and styles that many of your friends will be wearing.
Once you find your favorite African print, you might find yourself wondering what style to choose. It is important to remember that the right style should highlight your unique beauty, complimenting your body type.
Keep on reading for five African prom dress design ideas and how to style them to create an amazing statement of your personal fashion.
1. Mermaid-Style Gowns
There’s nothing sexier than a mermaid-style gown, which fits on the hips and defines the curves of the female body. No matter your size or your body type, this type of gown will prove to be a great prom dress concept. Picking this option can allow you to highlight your curves and unique body shape. Plus, the flared skirt, which ends just above the knee, allowing you to still move and dance with complete freedom. You can also use beadwork, along with your African print, to showcase the cut and fit.
Another point to keep in mind is that you can choose how the top is fitted, opting for sleeves, no sleeves, simple straps, or an off the shoulder option.
However, you might want to keep your height in mind. Generally speaking, maxi dresses look better on tall or at least average height women. However, if you still believe that you can make it work for you, by all means, give it a try!
It’s important you pick a great print for an ethnic prom dress in a mermaid-style. Doing so can help to highlight the height of the individual wearing this beautiful African prom dress. When you choose this style, make sure that your African print flows lengthwise to avoid a choppy look to your final prom dress.
2. Kente Dresses
Kente is a historical cloth made from thin strips woven together on narrow looms. This cloth is usually worn wrapped around the shoulders and the waist, while women wear it as a skirt and bodice.
When the Portuguese arrived in the 1970s, silk replaced the original white cotton material, and more patterns were created. A kente dress can have any number of design elements. Long, short, with or without volume, there are plenty of possibilities.
Have fun it and enjoy the fact that you’re wearing a prom dress made out of original African fabric. For inspiration and materials, check out our collection of kente prints. The beauty of using Kente prints is that you can make adjustments to reflect your personal taste in terms of length, fit, and cut. This prom dress can have a contemporary feel, while still showcasing the beautiful cultural significance of the African print itself.
3. Big, Bold, Maximal Dresses
Sometimes, a prom dress has to stand out. Don’t be afraid to wear volume and experiment with different cuts and bold, maximal designs. However, you want to keep your prints simple. The unique part of this maxi dress is that it does not have to be fitted. Instead, it provides flexibility to be worn in a variety of ways, thus reflecting your unique style. Plus, you can choose a cut and style that compliments your body type.
You may try a minimalistic print or there are always more colorful, modern designs to leave a lasting impression. The point is to create a gown that makes you feel beautiful and allows you to have fun on this exciting evening.
4. Off-The-Shoulder Gowns
We know that an off-the-shoulder gown may not sound like an African prom dress idea, but there’s nothing classier than a fitted dress that lets the shoulders breathe. This trend has been around since the mid-1800s.
If you want to feel classy, sophisticated, and dynamic all at the same time, go for an off-the-shoulder solution in a colorful, fun pattern. The contrast between classy and fun always works.
You can also choose to include a flared sleeve for the covered shoulder, giving another unique aspect to the cut and style of your African prom dress. Another option is to have a fitted sleeve. You can also do a combination of the off-the-shoulder look with a mermaid fitted style and the flared skirt at the bottom. The overall look is unique and reflects your unique fashion sense.
5. Ethnic Turtleneck Fitted Dresses
A turtleneck African prom dress can sound a little bit too serious for a party. Who says a turtleneck dress cannot be dramatic and fun at the same time? Your African print choice can be bold and bright, allowing you to make this serious style fun and exciting for your evening out.
This option style has been worn by stars all around the world and they’ve all stolen the show. Consider going with a monochrome print in grey and black colors. You can always leave the back of the dress open for more breathability and a unique style element. The point is that you can add the details and cut to make this style uniquely your own.
The Best News – We’re Here for You
Whether you come from an African background or not, whether you want to respect your heritage or just be fashionable, an African design is the next big thing. You’re lucky – we’ve got you covered! No matter what style or shape you prefer, our African print options can allow you to showcase a one-of-a-kind dress for your prom. Working with our team, we can help you to explore the various options available, in terms of both patterns and bold colors. If you are looking for a monochromatic look, then we have what you are looking for in plenty of different geometric patterns.
Are you ready for some great African prints? Click here and start shopping!
AKN Fabrics is recognized worldwide for selling the highest quality African fabrics and textiles at low prices. With new designs arriving daily, we always have a great selection of African fabrics and textiles to choose from.