What is so unique about African Prints?

For years, many Western designers like Yves Saint Laurent and Donna Karan have used African prints. Yet, the origins of the prints have always been overseen. Although African prints represent the diverse cultures and nature of the continent with the domination of vibrant colours, it is not easy to find young, modern, and Western swimwear brands. Sahara Swimwear, whose name is inspired by the sands of the Sahara Desert aims to introduce the African culture to the world, using ethnic prints.

From Maas Collection

It is no surprise why the prints perfectly portray the elements of the continent when we look at how they are made. Take the popular Kuba print, for example, it is made by hand cutting the Raffia Tree’s leaves and dyeing them with natural elements. It has the human touch and artisanship that makes it very valuable. Bògòlanfini, another print is produced in a similar way, yet has a very interesting use. Thanks to its natural colours, the fabric is used for camouflage. What is even more interesting is that the print symbolizes pureness and is often used as a superstitious protector. Like the Mediterranean symbol, the print is believed to be a protector from bad luck and worn by women who just gave birth or entered into adulthood.

 While some prints are more popular, like Kuba and Bògòlanfini, there is much more to discover. The prints used in Sahara Swimwear’s bikini and swimsuits are inspired by some unique places in Nigeria, Africa. The four prints, Udi, Imo, Orsu, and Obbo showcase the beautiful nature of these places.

Udi is a part of Enugu state in South-Eastern Nigeria; a beautiful place with hills rising hundreds of meters above the sea. The Udi print is a print that resembles the leaves of its trees, reimagined in vibrant pink and yellow.

Imo is one of the 36 states in Nigeria, located in the South East. Consisting of many rivers, like its namesake river, Imo is a place where nature plays a key role in its residents’ life. Yellow and black's contrast creates an eclectic harmony. And the inspiration for the shape? It comes from cocoa beans.

The Orsu print is named after Orsu which is a village in Anambra State - South Eastern Nigeria. Our Orsu print is a candy pink meets off-white stripe pattern.

Obbo-Ille is a village in Kwara State - South-Western Nigeria.

All showcasing the beautiful culture of Africa, Sahara Swimwear’s bikinis and swimsuits are authentic and dreamy. Although they represent the rich diversity of Africa, the designs are suitable for holidays all over the world. The colour combinations are carefully selected in order to create prints that highlight the beauty in every skin colour. Any skin colour will be complimented in Sahara Swimwear, as a result of the brand’s strict devotion to inclusivity.

Whatever your skin colour is, you can find bikinis and swimsuits in Sahara Swimwear. Click here to see the collection and shop.