Tired of the suits for formal events? Check out these traditional African alternatives

Kente

Kente is widely used in West Africa. With its roots traced to the Akan ethnicity, this brightly coloured and branded material is worn by royalty.

Akans of Ghana including Asantes, Fantes, Akuapems and others wear kente while Akans of the Ivory Coast also wear the traditional outfit which comes with accessories. Ewes of the Volta Region of Ghana also have their own versions of the kente cloth.

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The kente is worn by both male and female. It is wrapped around the body by men with or without a shirt while women sew the woven cloth into skirts and blouses.