Enjoy the sun, sand and sea in a perfect blend of traditional and modern styles that are both fashionable and functional. Traditionally, majority of African attire is characterized by bold colours, patterns, and designs, inspired by nature, animals, and geometric shapes. African beachwear incorporates these elements into swimsuits, cover-ups, and accessories that are both unique and eye-catching. Wearing African outfits are a way of expression and connecting to the continent in an authentic way. If you are a son or daughter of the soil, wearing African beachwear will remind you of your roots and if not, you will connect with Africa’s essence in new ways through the unique stories that each of the clothing items carry. Here’s what to look out for as you shop for your beachwear essentials this year. Shop links are the bottom of this article!
Adorn yourself in African print swimwear
One of the most popular African beachwear items is the African print swimsuit. African print fabric, also known as “Ankara” as popularly called in West Africa or as “Kitenge” in East Africa is a vibrant and colourful fabric that is widely used in African fashion. It is often adorned with intricate patterns and designs that reflect the culture and traditions of the African people. Swimsuits that are made from this fabric are a popular choice for those looking for something unique and eye-catching. Shop them in a variety of styles that include one-piece swimsuits, bikinis, tankinis, coverups and more.
Go for a large-sized, carry-all, woven or print tote bag
Woven bags are a popular accessory in African beachwear. They are made from natural fibres such as raffia, jute or elephant grass and are often adorned with traditional African designs. These bags are perfect for carrying beach essentials such as towels, sunscreen, and sunglasses. If you are looking for a bag that’s beach-perfect, try the woven Bolga bags that are made in the Bolgatanga region of Ghana. They are distinct in design, shape and size. It is really easy to recognize them anywhere. Worn with beachwear, it makes for a classy and chic look.
Accessorize your entire look with chic African bangles
Who says you cannot wear some jewellery simply because you are going swimming? Try some bangles that are woven from vinyl and recycled plastic as the perfect accessory for a day by the beach, chilling beside the pool or for a summer picnic. They can be worn individually for a minimalist look or stacked in layers on the arm, row upon row for a bold statement. Handmade in Mali, these bangles are completely waterproof so that you can still get wet without the fear of damaging your accessories and if you are ready for a good swim, simply take them off and store in the safe place.
Feeling the heat? Cool off with a folding hand fan
We are in the summer season and so it will be hot when you decided to visit the beach. Whether or not the cool breeze is blowing will not matter when you have this hand fan with you. You can use it to blow yourself cool and enjoy the allure of holding something colourful in your hand. It measures approximately twelve inches long when unfolded and the handles are made of dark or light brown leather with a latch to hold it together. These fans are made with traditional African print fabric and are perfect for staying cool while lounging on the sandy shores of your local beach.
Shield your eyes from the sun in sustainable sunglasses
Shield your eyes from the sun with Bohten sunglasses made from reclaimed wood, sourced in West Africa. It was on the mountainous region of Kwahu, highest habitable place in Ghana that the brand began its journey and since then, they have never looked back. Bohten has a vision that advocates for education, sustainable employment, social responsibility and environmental awareness in fashion globally. When you wear these sunglasses, you are also helping to create opportunities for creative and skilled workers worldwide. It is only a plus that these sunglasses are great for sunny days.
Kikoy cloth makes for the perfect picnic blanket or beach towel.
Beach outings are not complete without a picnic blanket or towel to lay upon the sand. Kikoy is a beautiful piece of cloth woven out of 100% cotton that is rectangular in shape and could be used for this purpose. The woven Kikoy cloth is local to Nairobi, Kenya and the vibrant colours are popping. It is just as colourful as it looks in pictures too. There are many other options on what one could use it for such as a neckscarf or throw blanket. Authentic Kikoy cloths are best sourced directly from Nairobi, Kenya and can be shipped to Canada within days. You can browse Etsy.com to find vendors of this beautiful fabric.
SHOP THE LOOK:
Swimsuits: HypeUrbanApparel via Etsy
Bangles: TruFaceByGrace
Coverups: AkaniDesigns via Etsy
Sunglasses: Bohten
Bolga Baskets: ArtTekniks via Instagram
Kikoy Cloth: NkoroiCrafts via Etsy
I’m a seasoned communications and marketing consultant with a penchant for all things stylish and chic. Follow me on social media and subscribe to the newsletter for regular updates on industry trends and much more!