Men:
The main African garment in African traditional clothing from Africa that most may recognize is the dashiki, a shirt worn by men that fall just above the knees with the sleeve length at the elbow. They are usually buttoned down the center and embroidered around the center of the chest and neck. Dashikis can be worn with traditional African pants called sokotos, but can also be worn with regular jeans or pants. African traditional clothing would not be complete without the fila or kufi, a traditional cap worn by African men. Many would not consider traditional African wear for men complete without the fila or kufi. Dashikis have become popular around the world with people of many ethnicities wearing them.
Women
African traditional clothing for women included the kaftan, a robe-like garment that has been worn in West Africa for centuries. Kaftans were originally a men’s garment until women began adopting them. Cleopatra of ancient Egypt was known for her kaftans that were adorned with lavish prints and amulets. In West Africa, kaftans were known as “boubou.” Kaftans have been worn all over Asia, but the African kaftan is distinct within itself. Traditionally, a kaftan that was free flowing in nature meant you were a commoner while tight fitting kaftans were worn by women from royalty or wealthy families. Colors varied from bright red and violet to more a drabber earthy décor.
These styles vary by region and tribe, but these garments are the main styles that have been worn by men and women of Africa for centuries. Indingo plant has been used as a traditional dye to get African traditional clothing in all forms of colors. Materials for both genders have been made of silk and Egyptian cotton. Children wore the same clothing; dashikis and sokotos for boys and kaftans for girls.
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