There is nothing more frustrating than getting free Ankara fabric for an event, only to spend hours racking your brain on what to sew. Whether it is your uncle’s birthday or a big Thanksgiving at church, the pressure to slay is as constant as your tailor’s probable disappointment.
But don’t worry, we have done the heavy lifting for you. We scoured the internet for all the best Ankara looks Nigerian celebrities have rocked, so you don’t have to.
Here are 20 female celebrity Ankara looks you will want to steal immediately:
1. Diana Eneje in an elegant mermaid gown
If you want to shut down the event without saying a word, this is the look. The sheer sleeves and dramatic slit do all the talking. This Ankara look is perfect for when you want to turn all the heads in the room.
2. Toke Makinwa in an Ankara straight gown
This dress is a master class in multitasking. Are you attending your aunt’s 50th birthday soirée? It works. Do you want to give off “classy, rich aunty”? It is even more perfect.
3. Liquorose in an elegant short dress
Want to serve waist, leg, and drama all at once? This look is your answer. The structured corset gives shape, and the mix of lace and Ankara shows you didn’t come to play. Ideal for after-party asoebi looks
4. Ini Edo in a simple short dress
This look is proof that “simple” and “boring” are not the same thing. The structured sleeves, flared skirt, and sharp neckline make it perfect for when you want to be classy without fading into the background. Bonus: it works for weddings and that owambe afterparty.
5. Bambam in a corset gown
Nothing says elegance like a well-cut mermaid dress, and this one gets it right. The beaded bodice adds just enough sparkle, and the embroidery gives it that rich-aunty finish. It’s a showstopper, no doubt, but only if your tailor knows what they are doing.
6. Alex Unusual in a ruched Ankara dress
This mermaid dress is an OG Ankara style that can never go wrong. From the ruched waist to the simple lace detailing at the top, the dress is perfect for church outings and Ankara office days at work.
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7. Hawa Magaji in a bold fitted dress
Hawa Magaji stuns in this mermaid-style Ankara ensemble. The bold sleeves add a lot of personality to the show. This fit is perfect for an Ankara-themed dinner that requires you to show up and show out even with an Ankara fabric.
8. Lillian Afegbai in an Ankara straight dress
One look that is sure to turn heads regardless of event choice is a well-tailored straight dress. The pleated halter-neck top, with its sharp V-cut, contrasts perfectly with the fitted Ankara bottom, giving the illusion of a top-and-skirt combo.
9. Thisthingcalledfashion in a two-piece
You can never go wrong with a two-piece set. Whether you are running simple errands at home and are not interested in looking like your problems or attending a mini conference on the weekend, this two-piece set is sure to elevate your look. The best part is that the pants can be styled alone, adding a unique twist to the look.
10. Nancy Isime in a straight Ankara gown
This straight gown is the definition of subtle drama. The off-shoulder cut and beaded drop sleeve add just enough flair, while the ruched wrap at the waist snatches you in the right places. Effortlessly classy, especially for evening events.
11. Anna Banner in a stylish straight gown
This dress is perfect for church or work. It is modest, stylish, and easy to pull off. It won’t waste your fabric or confuse your tailor, and the subtle off-shoulder adds just the right amount of flair without crossing any lines.
ALSO READ: 22 of the Best Bubu Gown Styles with Ankara You’ll Love in 2025
12. Mercy Aigbe-Adeoti in a flowy Ankara dress
Some days, you just want to look good without trying too hard, and this flowy dress gets it. It’s light, stylish, and perfect for errands, beach outings, or casual hangouts. The flower strap detail gives it that subtle pop without doing the most.
13. Mercy Eke in a simple flair dress
This Ankara look is the definition of simple and elegant. The halter neck and ruffled hem do just enough without doing too much. It’s tailor-friendly and versatile. Throw on heels for a party or flats for brunch, and you’re good.
14. Alex Unusual in a mermaid cut dress
Who says Ankara can’t do dinner party glam? This stunning dress shuts that idea down fast. It’s bold, elegant, and guaranteed to turn heads without sacrificing an ounce of class.
15. Thisthingcalledfashion in a summer dress
This summer-style Ankara dress is a reminder of how versatile Ankara can be. It’s breezy enough for brunch or evening strolls, and with a shawl thrown over, it becomes a modest church fit. Simple, effortless, and stylish.
16. Chidinma Ekile in an Ankara jumpsuit
This Ankara jumpsuit is the answer to “I want to stand out but still be comfortable.” The puffy sleeves add flair, while the tailored fit keeps it sharp. Perfect for when a dress feels too basic but jeans won’t cut it.
17. Hilda Baci in a tailored two-piece
This Ankara set is giving corporate chic with a twist. The fitted long-sleeve blouse and structured peplum add style, while the short skirt keeps it playful. Perfect for when you want to look serious but not too serious.
18. Mercy Aigbe-Adeoti in a structured corset blouse
This look balances drama and simplicity, perfect for church. The structured corset top with exaggerated sleeves brings all the attention, while the flowy skirt keeps it soft. Ideal for when you want to make a statement without being uncomfortable.
19. Liquorose in a fitted Ankara dress
This corset dress with a mermaid cut and layered hem is giving bridal energy, but make it Ankara. It is stylish, dramatic, and perfect for when you want to match the energy of a wedding without stealing the bride’s spotlight, just almost.
20. Ini Edo in an Ankara bubble dress
This fitted Ankara dress brings a couture edge with its dramatic bubble detail and sleek long sleeves. It is bold and perfect for high-end events where you want your outfit to do the talking.
