How to Dress for Kwanzaa

Wear a kaftan (or caftan) for comfort or if you plan on doing activities that require freedom of movement. A kaftan is a simple dress made up of two rectangular panels sewn together, usually without sleeves. Kaftans are often available in basic colors with decorations and graphics in white and brown.

Wear a danshiki over plain black pants if you're a man looking for a simple garment. The danshiki is a traditional African shirt that features either embroidery or hand painted symbols around the neck. A danshiki can also be worn by women, as long as it's used with a traditional skirt.

Dress up a simple attire with a kente, a large piece of cloth usually worn as a shawl by both men (especially) and women. A kente is usually made in a combination of bright colors, such as yellow, green and red. The kanga is another type of shawl that can also be worn on top of shirts and dresses.

Wear a gelee or headwrap if you're a woman. It takes some trial and error to learn how to wrap your hair properly, but you can ask your hairdresser to do it for you. Men can wear headwraps too or choose a small traditional hat known as fila.

Dress in bright colors with lots of African-inspired prints and motifs. Don't be afraid to be loud and wear sequins, silk and glitter during Kwanzaa.

Accessorize with original necklaces, earrings and bracelets made with beads, wood and other natural materials. Or wear items inspired in African designs, such as wild animals (especially elephants).