African Men Clothing Styles

African clothing styles for men have come a long way and have evolved from traditions dating back hundreds of years ago. There is a wide selection of fashionable clothing for African men, that comes in various colours, design, materials, and styles. These clothing styles are usually designed to correspond to various functions and occasions.

Here are the top five African clothing styles for men:

1. Kente

Arguably, Kente is the best known and the most celebrated of all African clothing styles. It is considered as the embodiment of the African heritage that is known all over the world. Traditionally, Kente is made from African silk originating from the Ashanti Kingdom of Ghana. This African design for men, dating back almost 400 years ago, is intended to be worn only by kings and chiefs. The geometric pattern, colour and design of every piece of Kente come with specific meanings. Aside from making a statement, it also embodies the creativity, life experiences, religious beliefs, cultural heritage, and family line of the wearer.

2. The Grand Boubou

The Grand Boubou is the definition of African masculinity. This four-piece garment for men is a brilliant piece of clothing is a popular African attire for men, hand crafted only by the most skilful tailors. The entire ensemble would include pants, top, Boubou outer garment, and Kufi hat. The grand Boubou, originally made in Ghana and Gambia, comes with meticulously embroidered gold patterns that would normally take several weeks to complete.

3. Dashikis

Generally made from African print, lace, silk, brocade, suiting or cotton fabrics, Dashikis is either loose-fitting or tailored shirt, often in the V-shape neckline. This fine piece of African clothing style for men comes with simple or elaborate embroidery patterns, especially along the sleeve, chest and necklines. Modern dashikis come in various designs and patterns; however, the traditional look is well preserved. In some instances, the shapes of Dashiki necklines vary in many shapes and forms, such as square, rounded or closed necklines. Although Dashikis are commonly worn in West Africa, this clothing style for men is also becoming popular in other parts of Africa.

4. Brocade Suits

Brocade Suits, often comes with gold embellishment, is one of the most invigorating African clothing styles for men. This bold, brocade pant set made from luxurious cotton brocade fabric, denotes the African roots of the wearer. This fine piece of clothing becomes even more sophisticated because of the detailed embroidery, throughout the fabric.

5. Yoruba

This traditional African clothing style is widely used in Nigeria. Yoruba clothes are called by different names, depending on the particular style or design. It is called Agbada, as a four-piece apparel consisting of a hat, Buba, embroidered pants, and a flowing Agbada. Sometimes, it is also considered as African Bariga, an apparel that is comprised of a long sleeved shirt, a hat, and embroidered pants, and a flowing Buba.

African clothing styles are generally characterized by dazzling shapes, bright colours, multicoloured patterns, and bold designs. They also come with an assortment of accessories, head wraps, caps, hats, shoes and many more.