Everything You Need to Know About Ankara Fabric | Complete Guide to African Wax Prints

Ankara fabric is one of the most recognizable and celebrated textiles in African fashion.

If you’ve ever searched for:

• What is Ankara fabric?
• Is Ankara 100% cotton?
• What is the difference between original and fake Ankara?
• How much does Ankara fabric cost?
• Where is Ankara fabric made?

This complete guide explains everything clearly.

As an African-inspired ready-to-wear fashion designer based in Lagos, Nigeria, I have worked with Ankara fabrics for over 10 years — and here is what you truly need to know.

What Is Ankara Fabric?

Ankara fabric is a vibrant, patterned cotton fabric widely used in African fashion.

It is also known as:

• African wax print
• Dutch wax
• Holland wax
• African print fabric
• Ankara print fabric

Original Ankara fabric is traditionally made from 100% cotton and is known for its:

• Bold colors
• Ethnic-inspired patterns
• Cultural symbolism
• Breathable texture

Although widely used across Africa, Ankara fabric is historically manufactured in Indonesia and later adopted across African markets because of its striking designs and durability.

Why Ankara Fabric Is So Popular in African Fashion

Ankara fabric is popular because it:

• Is colorful and expressive
• Reflects culture and heritage
• Is breathable and comfortable
• Works well for structured ready-to-wear clothing

At Daisy’s Wardrobe, most of our ready-to-wear dresses are created using high-quality Ankara fabrics because they allow us to design structured, feminine silhouettes that maintain their shape beautifully.

You can explore how we use Ankara in modern fashion here:

Ready-to-Wear Dresses Collection
https://daisyswardrobe.com/product-category/dresses/

Is Ankara Fabric 100% Cotton?

The original Ankara fabric is typically 100% cotton.

This makes it:

• Breathable
• Easy to sew
• Comfortable in warm climates
• Structured but not stiff

However, over the years, the market has evolved.

Today, you may find:

• Lower-quality Ankara blends
• Ankara prints on satin
• Ankara prints on silk
• Ankara prints on stretch fabrics

Not all Ankara fabrics are equal.

How to Tell Original Ankara from Lower Quality Versions

There are noticeable differences between high-quality and lower-quality Ankara fabrics.

Original High-Quality Ankara:

• 100% cotton
• Matte finish (no gloss)
• Firm but breathable
• Durable color retention
• Slightly more expensive

Lower-Quality Ankara:

• May contain synthetic blends
• Slight shine or gloss
• Extra smooth texture
• Less breathable
• Cheaper price

Price is often a strong indicator of quality.

In Nigeria, original Ankara fabric typically costs more than blended alternatives.

How Much Does Ankara Fabric Cost?

Ankara fabric is usually sold in six-yard pieces.

On average:

• Original Ankara fabric ranges between $10 – $15 per six yards
• Prices vary depending on:
  • Wholesaler vs retailer
  • Brand
  • Quality
  • Print complexity

Buying from wholesalers is generally more affordable than purchasing from small retailers.

How to Maintain Ankara Fabric

One of the best things about Ankara fabric is that it is easy to maintain.

Washing Tips:

• Wash in cool or lukewarm water
• Avoid harsh detergents
• Separate deep red prints during first wash
• Air dry to maintain color vibrancy

High-quality Ankara:

• Does not shrink easily
• Does not fade quickly
• Maintains structure after multiple washes

Proper care ensures longevity — especially for structured ready-to-wear dresses.

Uses of Ankara Fabric Beyond Clothing

Although primarily used for clothing, Ankara fabric is also used to create:

• Handbags
• Purses
• Shoes
• Upholstery
• Accessories
• Decorative home pieces

Its bold patterns make it versatile for creative expression.

Why Ankara Works So Well for Ready-to-Wear Fashion

Ankara fabric is ideal for structured ready-to-wear dresses because it:

• Holds shape well
• Does not stretch excessively
• Enhances tailored silhouettes
• Supports clean finishing

At Daisy’s Wardrobe, we transform Ankara into contemporary silhouettes like:

Vibrant Multi Ankara Shirt Dress
https://daisyswardrobe.com/product/vibrant-multi-ankara-shirt-dress/

Eleganza Multicolored Floral Midi Dress
https://daisyswardrobe.com/product/eleganza-multicolored-floral-midi-dress/

These designs show how traditional African wax prints can become modern, sophisticated ready-to-wear pieces.

Final Thoughts on Ankara Fabric

Ankara fabric is more than just a textile.

It is:

• Culture
• Identity
• Expression
• Structure
• Versatility

Whether you are:

• Starting a fashion business
• Buying ready-to-wear dresses
• Learning about African textiles
• Exploring contemporary African fashion

Understanding Ankara fabric helps you appreciate the craftsmanship behind every garment.

At Daisy’s Wardrobe, Ankara is not just fabric — it is the foundation of our design philosophy.