Embracing Ankara: A Guide for Apple-Shaped Women
Ankara fabric, with its vibrant colours and bold geometric patterns, is more than just fabric—it's a celebration of African heritage and personal expression. For apple-shaped women, Ankara offers endless possibilities to create stunning, flattering looks that embrace your curves with confidence.
Understanding Your Apple Shape
Apple-shaped bodies carry weight primarily around the midsection, with slimmer legs and arms. The key to dressing this body type is to:
- Create definition at the waist without restriction
- Draw attention to your best features (legs, arms, décolletage)
- Balance proportions with strategic silhouettes
Best Ankara Styles for Apple Shapes
#### 1. The Wrap Dress
The wrap dress is universally flattering, but for apple shapes, it's particularly magical. The V-neckline elongates your torso, while the adjustable wrap allows you to define your waist at the most flattering point.
Styling Tip: Choose an Ankara wrap dress with a bold print that draws the eye in a diagonal line across the body, creating a slimming effect.
#### 2. Peplum Tops
Peplum creates the illusion of curves by adding volume at the hip while skimming over the tummy. Pair with wide-leg trousers for a balanced silhouette.
Styling Tip: Opt for a peplum that hits at your hip bone, not your waist, to avoid adding bulk to your midsection.
#### 3. A-Line Skirts
High-waisted A-line skirts in Ankara print paired with a solid-coloured top create a stunning contrast while defining your waist.
Styling Tip: Tuck in a V-neck blouse to create vertical lines that elongate your frame.
#### 4. Empire Waist Dresses
These dresses cinch just under the bust and flow freely over the tummy—perfect for comfort without sacrificing style.
Patterns That Flatter
Not all Ankara patterns are created equal when it comes to flattering apple shapes:
- Vertical stripes or diagonal patterns create length
- Medium-sized prints work better than very large or very small patterns
- Strategic colour placement with darker colours around the midsection
Building Your Ankara Capsule Wardrobe
Start with these five essential pieces:
1. A versatile wrap dress for special occasions
2. A peplum top for work or casual outings
3. Wide-leg palazzo trousers in a complementary print
4. A structured blazer with Ankara accents
5. A midi A-line skirt for mix-and-match styling
Where to Shop Ankara in the UK
Several UK-based retailers offer beautiful Ankara pieces:
ASOS Marketplace offers independent African designers with unique pieces you won't find elsewhere.
Etsy UK is perfect for handmade and custom pieces tailored to your measurements.
Amazon UK has a growing selection of Ankara-inspired pieces at accessible prices:
For complementary pieces to style with your Ankara, consider:
Shop Wide-Leg Trousers on Amazon
Final Thoughts
Ankara fashion is about joy, heritage, and self-expression. As an apple-shaped woman, you have every right to embrace these bold, beautiful prints. The key is understanding which silhouettes work for your body and wearing them with confidence.
Remember: Fashion rules are guidelines, not laws. If a piece makes you feel beautiful and confident, that's the only rule that matters.
