Title: “Why 2019 Was the Year of African Dresses, and Why You Should Still Be Wearing Them Today”
If you weren’t paying attention in 2019, you missed a lot. There was a lot happening in the world of African fashion, and if you were fortunate enough to witness it—or, better yet, wear it—then you probably remember those fabulous, vibrant African dresses that made everyone turn their heads. But here’s the thing: just because the year 2019 has come and gone doesn’t mean that the African dress styles it birthed should be put away in the back of your closet. In fact, some of the best styles from that year are still rocking the fashion world today.
Let’s take a stroll down memory lane, shall we? Picture yourself walking into a room, wearing a stunning African print dress—whether it’s a knee-length wonder or a jaw-dropping gown—and the entire room turning to look at you, not because you walked in first, but because that dress? Oh, that dress speaks volumes.
But here’s the twist: this isn’t just about fashion. It’s about the stories behind the prints, the history of the fabrics, and the meaning of the design. African dresses are not just clothes—they’re expressions of culture, identity, and creativity. And if 2019 was anything, it was a year when those expressions truly exploded into the mainstream.
2019: The Year African Dresses Became an International Phenomenon
Okay, let’s talk about 2019. While some people were still trying to figure out what the latest trends were in basic “Western” fashion, African dresses were out here living their best life—taking bold prints, knee-length cuts, and floor-sweeping designs to the next level. From weddings to red carpets, to casual brunches with friends, these dresses were making waves all over the world.
In case you weren’t aware, African dresses—specifically styles like the Kitenge, Dashiki, and Ankara—were everywhere in 2019. You couldn’t walk down a street in Lagos, Nairobi, or Accra without seeing someone rocking a colorful print. And even outside of Africa, from Paris to New York, African-inspired prints were hitting the runway in full force.
But why? Why did these dresses suddenly catch fire in 2019? Well, African fashion has always been bold and beautiful, but it’s the fusion of traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetics that made African dresses stand out in a crowd. People weren’t just admiring the dresses—they were living for the story behind them. These dresses became a symbol of identity, empowerment, and global unity.
The Evolution of African Dress Styles: From Traditional to Modern
Before we go on, let’s talk a little bit about the magic that is African fashion. The term “African dresses” is a broad one. We’re talking about the wide variety of styles that come from over 50 countries on the African continent, each with its own unique fabric, design, and cultural significance. The Kitenge from East Africa, the Ankara print from West Africa, the Shweshwe from South Africa—each of these prints tells a different story. They speak of heritage, struggle, resilience, and beauty.
In 2019, designers took these traditional fabrics and styles and made them fresh for the new generation. It’s like taking something classic and giving it a modern twist. We saw knee-length African dresses hitting the scene in every color imaginable. They became an instant hit for weddings, parties, and other special occasions. The dresses were bold, colorful, and stylish, while still paying homage to the rich cultural history behind the fabric. It was like wearing a piece of history, but with a contemporary vibe.
You also saw longer, more elaborate gowns inspired by African prints that took the red carpet by storm. These weren’t just dresses—they were statements. Think of the “I’m here, and I’m proud of who I am” kind of vibe. People weren’t just wearing clothes; they were wearing their identity.
Knee-Length African Dresses: A Perfect Mix of Comfort and Style
Let’s not forget about knee-length African dresses—the unsung heroes of 2019 fashion. Not every occasion calls for a floor-length gown, right? Sometimes you just need a dress that’s cute, comfortable, and versatile. That’s where knee-length African dresses come in. These dresses were everywhere in 2019 and for good reason—they’re perfect for everything from casual brunches to formal gatherings.
The beauty of knee-length dresses, especially in African prints, is that they combine elegance with practicality. You can twirl around at a wedding or dance the night away at a party, and still feel totally at ease. What’s more, the prints add that special “wow” factor. Whether you’re in a vibrant Kitenge design or a sleek Ankara print, the fabric’s colors and patterns are bold enough to make a statement while still being easy to wear. The dresses offer the perfect balance between celebration and ease.
Special Occasion African Dresses: Elevating Your Look for Every Event
Of course, we can’t forget the special occasion dresses—the real showstoppers. Whether you’re attending a wedding, a gala, or even just a celebration of life, African dresses in 2019 gave us options that were both jaw-dropping and empowering. These dresses, often made from luxurious fabrics and adorned with intricate beadwork or embroidery, were the epitome of grace and style.
And let’s talk about the sheer creativity here. Designers played with textures, silhouettes, and accessories to create stunning African dresses that were tailored to every occasion. There’s nothing quite like walking into an event wearing a dress that makes you feel like royalty, and these dresses do exactly that. The boldness of the prints combined with the elegance of the cuts ensures that you’re always the center of attention in the best way possible.
Why You Should Still Be Wearing African Dresses Today
So, what’s the takeaway here? Sure, 2019 was a huge year for African fashion, but that doesn’t mean it’s time to retire your favorite Kitenge or Ankara dress. In fact, I’d argue that 2023 is the year to embrace it even more. Fashion trends may come and go, but African prints have stood the test of time. They’ve been around for centuries and are still going strong.
The truth is, the African dress style explosion we saw in 2019 was just the beginning. African fashion is not a trend; it’s a movement. It’s about reclaiming space, celebrating culture, and telling a story through every fold of fabric. And as more and more designers continue to push the envelope, it’s clear that African fashion is here to stay.
But beyond fashion, there’s also a sense of pride that comes with wearing these dresses. It’s about wearing something that represents not just beauty, but a deep-rooted history of struggle, triumph, and resilience. Wearing an African dress doesn’t just make you look good—it connects you to something bigger than yourself.
Final Thoughts: African Fashion is Forever
In conclusion, don’t let 2019 be the year African dresses were only “cool.” Let’s make sure that these stunning, vibrant, and rich styles remain timeless. Whether you’re wearing a knee-length Kitenge dress to brunch or a full-length gown to a wedding, remember this: African fashion isn’t just about looking good—it’s about feeling empowered and being part of a movement that celebrates diversity, beauty, and culture.
So, the next time you’re getting dressed for that special occasion or just looking for something that’ll make you feel like you own the room, reach for that African dress. Trust me, it’ll never go out of style.
