11 Ankara Styles That Will Dominate The New Year

The new year is here, and the calendar is already filling up.

Weddings, birthdays, owambe invites are already flooding in, and as always, the first thought is “What do I wear?” Not because there is nothing to wear, but because showing up in just anything never feels right. You’re probably already planning your outfit, from the fabric to the cut, and the entire look. Ankara or not, every event calls for style that feels fresh, considered, and worth the effort.

That instinct has not changed, but the way Ankara shows up has. In 2026, Ankara no longer sits in one predictable box. Designers are cutting it sharper, styling it cleaner, and pairing it with details you probably didn’t expect. The conversation has moved from fabric alone to style and finish.

Think sheer panels, sculpted hemlines, mesh corset bodices, and elevated silhouettes that feel fashion-forward without losing their cultural grounding. These 2026 Ankara styles are perfect for women who want to stand out subtly, dress with confidence, and still feel like themselves.

So if you are already thinking about what to wear to the events on your list this year, this is your sign to look beyond the usual. Ahead, we are predicting 11 Ankara styles set to dominate in 2026, each one designed to help you show up feeling current and confident.

This Ankara style proves that style has no rules when colour and tailoring meet confidence. The chartreuse one-shoulder corset top already does the heavy lifting, but pairing it with a mixed-print, high-waisted skirt takes the look further.

The mix-and-match Ankara style feels bold, and the balance is what makes this style one of those Ankara styles that turn heads the moment you walk in.

If you want the Ankara style of 2026 without screaming for attention, this look gets it right. The sheer black one-shoulder top softens the bold geometric skirt, while the long black train adds red-carpet energy.

We are particularly in love with the sheer sleeves, which exude just the right amount of glamour. Top off the look with a matching headwear, and you are ready for countless compliments.

The 2026 Ankara style has never been so chic. Dramatic sleeves, checked. Denim-infused, checked. And mini silhouette, checked, checked, checked!

This Ankara style is proof that tradition and trend can sit comfortably in the same look. The cropped denim jacket grounds the look, while the balloon Ankara sleeves and matching mini skirt bring all the personality. The denim touch feels youthful, confident, and perfect for someone who likes fashion that feels current.  

Our wedding calendar is already jam-packed with countless wedding activities in 2026, and as you may be wondering, we are stepping up our wedding-guest fashion with the latest Ankara styles.  

For the perfect rich auntie vibe, go for the regal Ankara style. The fitted mermaid silhouette creates a strong base, the off-shoulder sleeves with sculptural designs frame the upper body, and the solid colour train adds drama without overpowering the print. This is the kind of look made for grand entrances and long stares.

You can never underestimate the power of a chic Ankara style. Case in point: this tiered Ankara style for 2026 that screams sophistication. It’s the innovative design and colour combo that truly caught our collective gaze. It’s the type of African print dress that can take you from one swanky event to another. Just clock it!

The days of hot temps are coming, and the Ankara style to look forward to in 2026 is none other than the sleeveless Ankara top with matching pants. Make the most of the sleeveless silhouette to inject some glamour by showing off your slender arms and, of course, the roomy pants for a laidback vibe. 

If you want your Ankara style to do all the talking, then this Sculpted glam does it right. The off-shoulder corset bodice sculpts the upper body with precision, creating a clean silhouette that feels controlled and confident.

This is the 2026 Ankara style that will make people ask for your designer’s number. The tailoring sharpens the Ankara fabric, allowing the print to feel refined rather than loud. 

Sometimes, one piece carries the entire look. This 2026 Ankara style leans fully into that idea. The cropped puff-sleeve blouse delivers volume, shape, and presence, instantly drawing attention to the upper body and waist. 

The wide-leg palazzo trousers stay relaxed and understated, letting the blouse remain the hero. The statement blouse styling is a smart way to wear Ankara in 2026 when you want something striking without overworking the outfit.

You’ve decided on a corseted dress for an event, but the usual solid bodice feels predictable. This gorgeous 2026 Ankara style delivers the structure you want, then switches things up with a sheer mesh insert that adds some attention to the look.

The fitted corset defines the waist, while the sweetheart neckline makes your Ankara style feel deliberate and fashion-forward. It’s the kind of Ankara style that stands out quietly, detailed enough to feel special, confident enough to carry the room without trying too hard.

Still don’t know what to wear to some high-fashion events? The halter-neck Ankara style is the perfect balance for your event, with a hint of tradition. The halter neckline keeps the look glamorous while showcasing your shoulders.

What sets this Ankara style apart are the detachable billowy sleeves that extend into matching gloves. One moment, the silhouette feels sleek and minimal. Next, it transforms into a full statement look that commands attention. The 2026 Ankara style is refined, versatile, and proof that African prints belong confidently in high-fashion spaces.

Ankara dresses have since gone beyond casual wear. We are seeing more stunning designs popping up for weddings and the red carpet in 2026.

If you want the It-girl 2026 Ankara style, then look no further than this soft and feminine look. The asymmetrical one-shoulder neckline pairs beautifully with a flowing sash that drapes from the shoulder, adding effortless drama and balance to your Ankara style. This is the kind of style that stands out at any event, while remaining graceful and refined.

Photo: Instagram/@sonyapembe