What is the other name of Ankara?

What is the other name of Ankara?
Ankara fabric is a vibrant and colorful textile that has become a cultural symbol and fashion statement across Africa and beyond. Known for its bold prints and rich history, Ankara is more than just a material—it’s a medium of identity, celebration, and storytelling. But if you’re wondering, what is the other name of Ankara?—you’re not alone.

What is the other name of Ankara?

The other name of Ankara is African Wax Print or simply Wax Print. It is also sometimes referred to as Dutch Wax or Holland Wax, especially when referring to the original versions manufactured in Europe. These names are used interchangeably depending on region, origin, or context, but they all generally refer to the same type of colorful, patterned fabric.

History of Ankara Fabric

Although Ankara is now closely associated with African fashion, its origins can be traced back to Indonesia. The fabric-making technique known as batik, which involves wax-resist dyeing, was first developed in Indonesia. During the 19th century, Dutch colonizers tried to replicate and mass-produce these textiles in Europe, specifically in the Netherlands. These European versions were not successful in Indonesian markets due to quality and cultural differences, but they found a huge market in West and Central Africa.

African consumers embraced the fabric for its bold patterns and vibrant colors, integrating it into local cultures, traditions, and ceremonies. Over time, Ankara fabric came to be seen as a quintessentially African textile, despite its foreign origins.

Why It’s Called Ankara

The term “Ankara” became popular in West Africa, particularly Nigeria, to describe the printed fabric. Some say the name originated from Ankara, the capital of Turkey, due to trade routes or early importers, but this connection is more coincidental than historical. Today, the term “Ankara” is widely accepted to mean African wax print fabric, regardless of its country of manufacture.

Different Names for the Same Fabric

Depending on who you ask or where you are, the fabric might be called:

• African Wax Print – A general term for the fabric across the continent.
• Dutch Wax – Refers to high-quality versions produced in the Netherlands, especially by companies like Vlisco.
• Holland Wax – Another term for Dutch-made wax print fabrics.
• Wax Print – A simplified term commonly used in fashion and textile industries.

Uses of Ankara Fabric

Ankara fabric is highly versatile and used in a wide variety of ways:

• Traditional attire such as iro and buba, agbada, dashiki, and headwraps.
• Modern fashion including dresses, blazers, trousers, and accessories.
• Home décor items like cushion covers, curtains, and tablecloths.
• Craft items including bags, shoes, and jewelry.

The fabric’s bright and bold aesthetics make it a favorite for weddings, festivals, and fashion shows.

Cultural Importance

Ankara is not just fabric—it’s a cultural symbol. In many African communities, the fabric chosen for an event can carry deep meanings. Certain patterns may represent proverbs, political views, or social status. Families may even create custom designs for weddings or family reunions. Wearing Ankara is often a point of pride, identity, and connection to heritage.

Modern Trends

Ankara has gone global. African designers have brought it to international runways, and it has been embraced by celebrities and influencers around the world. It’s not unusual to see Ankara prints fused with Western styles, creating hybrid looks that are modern yet rooted in tradition.

Conclusion

So, what is the other name of Ankara? Whether you call it African wax print, Dutch wax, or Holland wax, Ankara fabric remains a beloved and iconic textile that bridges history, fashion, and culture. From its roots in Indonesian batik to its place in African wardrobes and global fashion, Ankara is a testament to how fabrics can carry stories across continents and generations.

The next time you wear or admire an Ankara outfit, remember—it’s more than just a pattern. It’s a powerful cultural artifact with a truly international journey.