Understanding Ankara pt. 2: Wax Print Names & Hidden Meanings

Now that we’ve discussed the complex history of wax prints in part one (read here), it’s time to delve into the sociocultural side of fashion. Are Ankara prints just pretty designs or can a deeper meaning be ascribed to the fabric?

Much like any other fashion category, wax print trends blend elements of culture with storytelling. This can be observed in many of the popularised cloth designs highlighted below.

Travel throughout West Africa and I guarantee you’ll see any one of these staple prints made into both male and female garments.

Nsu Bra 

This stunning print looks exactly like its meaning. Its name derives from the Twi word which translates to, ‘water well’. Other common names include, ‘Target’, ‘Record’ and ‘Plaque-Plaque’. The image of small dots in concentric circles are meant to depict ripples when an object is placed in water.

It serves as a visual reminder to practice mindfulness because our actions have a wider effect our surroundings. Besides the dashiki, this print is one of the most common and can be observed in various color combinations throughout the African fashion scene.

Nkrumah’s Pencil

This design is named in honour of Ghana’s first President, Kwame Nkrumah. He was known for making important speeches. As the story goes, before making strong remarks in public he would write out his thoughts in detail. His words were as sharp as his pencil.

Akyekydeɛ Akyi

This print’s name translates to ‘tortoise shell’. The fabric is meant to symbolize longevity and resilience. Though the tortoise is slow, it is wise.

Sika Wo Antaban

This fabric is based off of a witty Akan phrase which translates to ‘Money has wings’. In other words, just as fast as a bird flies away, so will your coins without proper management and self control.

Portrait Cloths

These cloths are designed to commemorate public or political figures. When an important person visits a group or community it’s sometimes worn as a symbol of admiration and high honour.

There’s so much variety and meaning in the prints described above. The best part is that these are only a few of a much wider array of Ankara prints.

***Like the fabric I’m wearing in this article? It’s a newer fabric often referred to as, ‘floral salad’ because the leaves resemble lettuce pieces lol. Comment below your favorite wax print fabric and be sure to subscribe to this blog to stay updated for more fashion content!