Ankara Fever! Bold Beauty Inspired by African Prints
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There’s something about Ankara prints that instantly commands attention. The bold colors, striking patterns, and rich cultural influence make Ankara fashion more than just a trend; it’s a statement. For this look, I wanted my makeup to match that same energy: vibrant, confident, and unapologetically bold. This post is all about Ankara-inspired makeup, where beauty meets culture and creativity. When working with such expressive fashion, the makeup has to complement, not compete with, the outfit. The goal was to achieve a full-face glam look that enhances the skin, defines the eyes, and balances boldness with wearability.
The Inspiration Behind the Look
Ankara fashion represents heritage, individuality, and pride. Whether styled in dresses, skirts, or accessories, these prints tell stories through color and design. When pairing makeup with Ankara, I focus on clean skin, sculpted features, and defined eyes, allowing the prints to shine while still delivering a polished beauty look.
This look is perfect for:
Cultural events
Fashion presentations
Photoshoots
Special occasions
Everyday wear if you love bold beauty
Ankara fever is real, and once you embrace it, there’s no going back.
Full face application using makeup products is used to achieve this look.
Full Face Makeup Breakdown
To achieve this look, I used a full face application with trusted drugstore and professional products that deliver pigmentation, longevity, and blendability.
Face
For a smooth, sculpted base, I focused on warmth and definition to complement the rich tones of Ankara prints.
Bronzer in Deep by MAC – Adds warmth and dimension without looking muddy
Cream Contour Palette by e.l.f. Cosmetics – Perfect for creating a natural contour that melts into the skin
This combination creates a flawless, radiant complexion that holds up beautifully throughout the day
Eyes
The eyes are where the drama lives. Ankara-inspired looks call for defined lines and playful color.
Eyestudio Liner by Maybelline – Sharp, clean lines for bold definition
Soda Pop Eyeshadow Palette by Maybelline – Vibrant shades that blend easily and add personality to the look
I kept the eye look bold yet balanced, ensuring it enhanced the outfit instead of overpowering it.
Lashes
No glam look is complete without lashes that frame the eyes.
Waterproof Volumizing No Clump Mascara by Maybelline New York – Adds volume and length while staying flake-free
This mascara is ideal for long wear, especially if you’re attending events or photoshoots.
Brows
Defined brows help anchor bold makeup looks.
Eyebrow Pencil by CoverGirl – Natural definition with just the right amount of structure
Keeping the brows clean and shaped allows the rest of the makeup to shine.
Lips
For the lips, I opted for a soft, neutral finish to balance the bold eyes and outfit.
Lip Gloss by CoverGirl – Adds shine without overpowering the look
Lip Liner in Nude by CoverGirl – Defines the lips while keeping them subtle
This combo keeps the focus on the overall harmony of the look.
Why Ankara Makeup Works So Well
Ankara prints are expressive by nature, which makes them the perfect canvas for creative beauty looks. The key is balance; bold doesn’t have to mean overdone. Clean skin, defined eyes, and intentional color choices allow both the fashion and makeup to work together seamlessly.
Ankara-inspired beauty celebrates:
Culture and creativity
Confidence and individuality
Bold color stories
Modern styling with traditional influence
Ankara Fever is more than a makeup look; it’s an attitude. It’s about embracing bold beauty, honoring cultural influence, and showing up confidently as yourself. Whether you’re wearing Ankara prints for a special event or incorporating them into your everyday style, your makeup should reflect that same fearless energy.
This look proves that with the right products and intention, you can create a glam, wearable beauty moment that stands out while staying true to your personal style.
Disclaimer (2025 Updated)
This content may include affiliate links, gifted items, or brand collaborations. Products are provided by brands, agencies, or PR partners unless otherwise stated. Affiliate links (including LTK/RewardStyle or Amazon) may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.
All opinions are honest, independent, and based on personal experience. Compensation or gifting does not influence reviews or recommendations. This content is designed to offer helpful and transparent beauty guidance.
About the Author
Ashley Opoku is a New York City–based beauty entrepreneur, beauty blogger, and professional makeup artist. She is the founder of Akua Ashley, a beauty and style blog established in 2015, focused on honest beauty reviews, makeup artistry, and fashion-forward inspiration.
With hands-on industry experience and a passion for education, Ashley helps women and men confidently navigate beauty, makeup, skincare, and style through experience-driven content that aligns with Google EEAT and Helpful Content standards.
