Corporate style doesn’t have to mean plain suits and muted tones. If you’re a working woman in Nigeria or part of the diaspora, you can confidently rock Ankara in professional settings and still command respect. The key is knowing how to blend African vibrancy with office-appropriate elegance.
In this post, we’ll show you how to wear Ankara to work without crossing the line into “too much,” so you stay chic, cultural, and career-ready.
1. Go for Tailored Silhouettes
If you want to wear Ankara in the workplace, fit is everything. Sharp tailoring instantly elevates your look from casual to corporate. You can count on Kachispride for this
Recommended Ankara office styles:
- Fitted pencil skirts
- Structured blazers with clean cuts
- High-waisted trousers
- Button-down shirts with a soft Ankara accent
✨ Tip: Ask your tailor to keep the lines clean — less volume, more structure.
2. Stick to Muted or Monochrome Ankara Prints
Not every Ankara fabric is made for the boardroom. For work, choose prints with minimal contrast, solid color bases, or subtle designs. You still get that Afrocentric flair — just with more polish.
Go for:
- Navy, mustard, burgundy, or earthy tones
- Tiny repetitive patterns
- Two-tone designs that mimic traditional office wear
3. Mix Ankara with Solid Colors
Wearing full Ankara might not be feasible in every office. A great way to make it work is by combining Ankara with plain fabrics.
Examples:
- Ankara blouse + black tailored trousers
- Ankara pencil skirt + crisp white shirt
- Ankara jacket + solid-colored dress
This creates balance — bold but not overwhelming.
4. Accessorize Like a Pro
Accessories can make or break your office Ankara look. For the workplace, keep it classy and intentional.
Dos:
- Minimalist jewelry (e.g., gold studs, dainty chains)
- Closed-toe pumps or neat flats
- A structured handbag
Don’ts:
- Loud, chunky beads
- Over-the-top headwraps (unless it’s a designated cultural day)
- Flip-flops or anything overly casual
5. Choose Smart Ankara Pieces for Casual Fridays
If your office allows a more relaxed dress code on Fridays, this is your moment to shine. Go for chic and fun Ankara outfits that still look professional.
Perfect Friday options:
- Ankara shirt dresses
- Ankara tops with jeans and heels
- A shift dress with a blazer over it
6. Let Your Personality Shine — Within Boundaries
Fashion is self-expression, and your culture is a part of who you are. If you’re bold and creative, reflect that in your outfits — but always read the room. Consider your industry, your office dress code, and what level of flair is acceptable.
💼 You can slay with culture without compromising your professionalism.
7. Bonus: Ankara-Inspired Workwear Sets (Ready-to-Wear Collection)
Don’t have time for custom pieces? Ready-to-wear Ankara workwear is your best friend. Many Nigerian brands (like ours!) now create curated office-ready Ankara pieces that are:
- Modest
- Tailored
- Stylish
- Quick to grab and wear
Conclusion: Redefining Corporate Elegance, the African Way
You don’t have to leave your culture at home to be a professional. Ankara is powerful, beautiful, and work-ready — when done right. With the right styling, you can represent your heritage confidently in any boardroom and still be taken seriously.
So yes, Ankara for work? Absolutely. Just slay smart.
