90+ stylish and modern short African dresses ideas to try

Short dresses are a go-to fashion choice for modern women who prefer elegant but simple styles. African cultures have greatly influenced contemporary dressing as designers look for ways to infuse traditional and Western styles to create fashion masterpieces. This article highlights some of the best modern short African dresses to try.

Short dresses are usually worn to semi-official and casual events. It is also the best outfit choice for a hot summer outing. They are easy to walk in and create a more flattering silhouette than long dresses.

What are short dresses called?

Short dresses are called mini dresses, and they fall above the knee. They come in many styles, including form-fitting, baby doll, cocktail, blazer, shirt dress, bodycon, flare, or bandage.

Modern short African dresses

Africa has several cultures with diverse fashion sense. These are the top modern traditional outfits changing the trajectory of global fashion.

Read also

50+ trendy Slit and Kaba style designs for ladies (with images)

1. One off-shoulder Ankara with long sleeves

Keep it cute and casual with this mini and long-sleeved African print gown. The belt defines the waistline, making the ensemble ideal for any body type.

2. Chisom shift gown with rounded neckline and short sleeves

This fully lined and leg-bearing length outfit creates a flattering silhouette. It is an excellent fit for a casual outing.

3. Flared shirt gown

This blue-flared outfit is a must-have for any season. Its flared silhouette makes it a perfect streetwear or semi-formal choice for all body types.

4. Stretchy off-shoulder

Showcase your curves in this stretchy-straight off-shoulder ensemble. It is an any-day fashion choice.

5. Babydoll outfit with seam pockets and contrast sleeves

This multi-colour African-print dress is designed for all body types. It flatters the silhouette, and the front zipper makes it easy to slip on for a fun summer outing.

6. Knee-length dress with flared sleeves

Read also

20+ stylish cowgirl outfit designs and attires for different occasions (2024)

The flare design and pleated lower part of the ensemble give it a fuller look. It is easy to wear and comfortable for any function.

7. Flared one-shoulder gown with asymmetric neckline and mono-puffed sleeve

Upgrade your streetwear wardrobe with this colourful flared outfit. You can style it with matching heels and accessories or dress down with sandals or sneakers.

8. Short-sleeved wrap gown with V-neckline

Wrap-design outfits are ideal for all body types and a must-have for all ladies. It flatters your figure, and the tie belt helps mark the waistline.

9. Ankara mini with layered hemline

This ensemble is perfect if you are looking for an outfit that accentuates the curves and flatters the body shape. It is light and perfect for a hot weather outing.

10. Off-shoulder mini

Add a touch of sophistication with this off-shoulder African print outfit. It looks great on petite ladies who are confident with their curves.

Read also

Top 70+ amazing coffin nails on black skin ideas for 2024

11. Plunge float sleeve skater dress with an extra-flare circle skirt

Mixed-print Ankara flared gown flatters the silhouette and makes you look great without showing curves. The outfit can be worn to ceremonies like weddings or a stylish dinner outing.

12. Off-shoulder ensemble with puffy sleeves and stretchy burst

The ensemble is circular for a fuller look and an elastic burst area for all-day comfort. You can enhance that curve definition with a waist belt.

13. High-low long-sleeved shirt dress

Upgrade your wardrobe with this must-have fall/spring ensemble. You can style it with a belt for a defined waist or let it flow freely as you enjoy the warm outdoors.

14. Aso oke fabric dashiki gown

This hand-woven dashiki outfit from Yoruba is a simple but stylish choice for a casual weekend. Dress up with matching strappy heels or dress down with flats.

15. Mix-fabric knee-length shirt dress

This gown has a blend of cotton and bogolan fabrics. It is good for petite and curvy ladies and can be worn to the office or other semi-formal events.

Read also

30+ African modern Kaba styles for funerals in 2024 (with images)

16. Patch shift gown

This African print shift gown is a wardrobe staple for the warm weather. It is simple and breathable but stylish. It features functional front pockets for keeping personal essentials without having to carry a bulky handbag.

17. Loose short-sleeved Batik gown with V-neckline

Go for a comfortable look with this loosely fitting Batik fabric ensemble. It is perfect for all body types, including expectant ladies.

18. Mix-fabric kaftan short gown

This outfit is a simple but classy sundress made from African fabric—perfect for leisurely days like weekend hangouts. You can wear it alone or pair it with matching pants to beat the cold.

19. One shoulder wax print outfit with South African motifs

Stand out with this stylish South African print streetwear ensemble. The cotton belt helps define the waistline for a flattering silhouette.

20. Loose and straight-cut ensemble

Keep it simple but fashionable with this Batik fabric short dress. It is an ideal hot day wear for casual events.

Read also

30+ stylish Nigerian traditional dresses and attires (2024)

21. High-low African print gown

Enhance your wardrobe fashion with this stylish high-low dress. It can be worn to weddings or other social ceremonies where you need to stand out.

22. Elegant Ankara with ruffle trim

Make a fashionable entrance with this uniquely designed ensemble. Choose your preferred colour for a flirty and classy appearance.

23. Fabric-mix flare gown with puffy sleeves

Be elegantly stylish with this puff-sleeved bright short dress. It is made from a mixture of cord lace, organza, and Ankara fabric

24. Elegant burgundy straight shirt dress with a plunging neckline

Shirt dresses have proved to be a timeless fashion classic with different designs being rolled out. This burgundy African print ensemble will make you look beautiful and effortlessly stylish.

25. Oversized Agdaba Africa map crepe gown

On the days that you do not want to dress up but still looking for a stylish out, this oversized Agdaba black crepe dress is a perfect choice. Style it however you like.

Read also

40+ cute South African kiddies' traditional dresses (2024)

26. Figure-hugging straight mini with a low square neckline

Flatter your curvy figure with this figure-hugging ensemble. It is designed with a back zipper for easy wear and long off-shoulder sleeves to make a fashion statement.

27. Tropic leaves Ankara skater dress with a V-back neckline

This tropic leaves flare gown helps you achieve a classy and feminine style. You can style it with a blazer for a more formal look.

28. Yellow shift dress with African print details

This outfit is an excellent fashion choice for a summer casual outing. It is made from wax fabric with African print detailing around the neckline, alongside the back zipper, and as patch pockets.

29. Loose sheath straight ensemble with flared sleeves

Beat the summer heat with this wax and Ankara fabric sheath ensemble. It has flared African print sleeves and a unique hemline cutout design for a classy casual look.

30. Colourful Kaghita gown

Read also

80+ classy Umbhaco Xhosa traditional attire for men and women in 2024

This vibrant outfit is an elegant mixture of West African print, western art, and chic style fused to create an elegant silhouette. It has African-inspired silk, bogolan, and mud-cloth fabrics.

31. Short La Robe klamien

The ensemble is made from African-inspired silk, poplin, and satin fabric. It features a red satin sash around the waistline to accentuate the silhouette.

32. African-inspired fabric mix cocktail dress

The bodice is made of denim with lace, while the skater skirt has chiffon material with Africa-inspired prints. The inner lining is made of satin for a comfortable look.

33. Stylish cocktail dress with veil sleeves and removable loincloth train

Be elegantly stylish in this evening wear cocktail gown. The dress is made from wax fabric, while the removable loincloth train is from Ankara material.

34. Free boubou outfit

This free boubou gown is perfect for everyday wear for all body types. You can choose one with one fabric or mixed materials.

Read also

Discover the 20 hottest Pondo hairstyles in South Africa: stay on trend with these hairdos

35. Rosalina cocktail gown

This Rosalina cocktail gown is a fashionable mix of an Ankara fabric skirt and an attached polka-dotted top. The African print detail at the front gives it a vibrant appearance. The outfit is perfect for ceremonious events like weddings.

36. Short-sleeved blue flared gown

Upgrade your wardrobe with this relaxed African print skater dress. The outfit is made from cotton and has an invisible side zipper with two pockets at the side seams.

37. Floral African print day dress

The outfit has a classic buttoned collar and a waist wrap for a well-defined silhouette. You can pair it with matching heels or dress down with flats. The outfit is ideal for office and school wear.

38. Pink bodycon dress with kente printed silk ornament and drape

This stretch outfit looks great on petite ladies. The kente print adds an extra shine for a statement-making fashion at weddings or evening wear.

Read also

50+ modern and chic Zulu traditional attires: Embrace tradition in style

39. Black bodycon with bogolan prints

Flatter your figure in this elegant bodycon. The stretchy outfit is designed using cotton and bogolan material with an Ankara touch. It can stretch and looks great on petite bodies.

40. Strappy fabric-mix cocktail gown

This outfit is designed with two vibrant Ankara fabrics and a zipper for easy wear. It looks great on petite ladies and is a perfect choice for attending weddings and going out on a sunny day.

41. Brown African print with puffed sleeves

The attire has a matching belt for a more flattering shape. Pair with matching pumps or heeled sandals for a chic and classy fashion statement.

42. African print dress with collared neckline and flared sleeves

Add a comfortable fashion piece to your wardrobe with this loose-fitting flared shirt dress. It is an excellent outfit choice for stylish maternity.

43. Strapless skater gown

This strapless flare ensemble is perfect for the hot weather. It can also be worn with a jacket or complementing scarf. Enhance the look with minimal jewellery and your preferred shoes.

Read also

Top 30 best matric farewell dresses in South Africa 2021

44. Backless flared dress with a plunging front neckline

Backless outfits are a wardrobe staple for hot summer days. You can pair it with sneakers for a comfortable outing or heels if you need to make a fashion statement.

45. Elegant African print gown with long bell sleeves and matching headwrap

Upgrade your style while attending festive evenings with this long bell-sleeved cocktail ensemble. Pair with pumps or heels for an effortlessly classy look.

46. Mini Ankara gown with puffed Juliet sleeves

Look festive in a mini African print ensemble with Juliet sleeves and a plunging neckline. It is an excellent fashion choice for traditional wedding bridesmaids.

47. Short red gown with ruffled bodice and plunging back V-neckline

This red African print mini gown is perfect for ceremonious events where fashion is key. The bodice is held in place with the lace on the back, while the ruffles add a touch of elegance.

Read also

A list of the best coat and jacket brands for men in 2020

48. Sleeveless Kente bodycon

Accentuate your curves in this simple Kente print bodycon. You can accessorize with jewellery or put on a blazer when it gets cold.

49. Asymmetrical mini gown

This asymmetrically designed ensemble is perfect for all body types since it flatters the silhouette. The cinched waist helps accentuate the figure, while the oversized sleeves give the outfit an ultra-feminine and slouchy look.

50. Figure-hugging mini gown with layered butterfly sleeves

This ensemble is designed to flatter your curves with the figure-hugging silhouette. It is perfect for parties, weddings, or as evening wear.

51. Dashiki mini dress with African pattern

This ensemble combines modern designs with traditional African styles for a bold fashion statement. The V-neckline and long sleeves make it versatile.

52. Deep V-neck flare mid-sleeve slim gown

This elegant African dress showcases your natural beauty on a hot sunny day. The sleek body-hugging fit accentuates the curves, while the daring deep V-neckline ensures comfort.

Read also

60+ traditional dresses with pictures in South Africa 2024

53. Flared mini dress with a plunged neckline

This fashionable flared mini gown features a deep plunge neckline and black glittery waistbands for an appealing and stylish appearance. It also has two side pockets.

54. Red African print cross front mini-ensemble

This outfit features a cut-out cross design at the front and a fashionable back zipper for easy wear. The elasticated waistband ensures a perfect fit.

55. Surplice off-shoulder ensemble with balloon sleeves

This outfit creates a sophisticated look with elasticated balloon sleeves and a diagonally crossed neckline. For a stylish finish, pair it with matching heels and add a belt for an outlined waistline.

56. Sleeveless mini-ensemble with a plunged neckline

Take summer fashion by storm with this stylish blue mini gown. It has a deep plunge neckline for comfort and gold glittery waistbands to flatter the figure.

57. Sophisticated infinity outfit

This infinity ensemble is the most versatile cocktail outfit to have in your closet. It can be worn in different ways, making it ideal for different occasions.

Read also

70+ best Sepedi traditional attire for ladies and men in 2024 (with images)

58. Short Ankara dress with deep V-neckline and puffy sleeves

This ensemble is the perfect choice if you are looking for a curve-enhancing outfit. You can wear it to any function.

59. Green and purple strapless summer gown

Make a fashion statement with this straight green and purple gown. Ensure you get the measurements right for a perfect fit because cotton Ankara fabric does not stretch.

60. Mini tube gown

Showcase your beautiful legs and hands in this mini-tube dress. The outfit is flattering on all body types and can be worn to indoor or outdoor events.

61. Yellow stretchy short Kente dress with matching sandals

Stand out with this vibrant yellow stretchy gown with African print detailing. It is perfect for curvy and petite bodies and can be worn to formal or casual events.

62. Short wrap dress with a V-neckline

The outfit has a band on the waist to enhance the curves and a zipper for a perfect fit. It is made from non-stretchy African cotton that can be customized to fit your silhouette.

Read also

70+ African braids hairstyles in 2024: unique hairstyles to elevate your look

63. Off-shoulder red party gown with infinity sleeves

Upgrade your casual wardrobe fashion with this carefully tailored African print gown. It looks great on all body types.

64. Off-shoulder mini skater

This short flared gown is comfortable and easy to move around on a warm sunny day. Pair with minimal accessories for a simple but elegant style.

65. Stretchy short gown with kimono sleeves

This outfit is designed from African cotton fabric with elastic threads for a stretchy fit. Kimono sleeves give it a unique and beautiful appearance.

66. Mini bodycon with extra-large puffy sleeves

This outfit's vibrant colour and figure-fitting silhouette make it an elegantly beautiful and confident look. The exaggerated puffy sleeves make you stand out.

67. Short high-low balloon dress with side pockets

The ensemble has a one-shoulder bubble sleeve and a bubble hem that make it appear like a balloon. Its vibrance appearance makes it a perfect choice for ceremonious events like birthdays and weddings.

68. Versatile infinity gown

This outfit can be worn in over ten different ways, giving an easy choice for every occasion. It featured two side pockets and an elastic back for the perfect fit.

69. Plunge float sleeve skater dress with an extra-flared circle skirt

This modern African design is a must-have summer fashion. Stand out with the outfit's flattering design.

70. Stylish Ankara bodycon with ballooned sleeves

This African print bodycon gives you a timeless chic appearance. Its figure-hugging feature and toned colours with ballooned sleeves help create a fashion statement.

71. Elegant fabric mix

The mini gown features an African cotton fabric dress with pleated designs on the sides to the back. The attached long lacey sleeves and a high neckline give the outfit a contrasting elegant style.

72. Free-flowing African print short dress

This free-flowing African print dress fits all body types. It is light on the body and comfortable to wear

73. High-low red infinity gown

Pull off a classy and elegantly fashionable look in this high-low ensemble. The neckline can be worn in different ways.

74. Mini gown with matching kimono

Enhance your mini dress style with a matching kimono. The ensemble is ideal for formal and casual wear. Pair it with matching accessories for a head-turning look

75. Off-shoulder tube dress with detachable tulle net sleeves

This off-shoulder outfit can be worn as a sleeveless or sleeved attire. The purple tulle net sleeves add extra flare.

76. Stretchy one-shoulder mini

Get into the hot girl summer vibes with this stretchy form-fitting dress. The ensemble fits snugly on the body for an extra curvier look.

77. Blue layered gown with puffy sleeves and scoop neckline

Stand out in this blue-layered mini dress. The puffy sleeves and side pockets add a classy flare. Pair with matching heels for a head-turning fashion statement.

78. African print blazer dress

This mini blazer dress features four buttons to fasten the outfit and a matching belt to flatter the body shape. Order the right size for a perfect fit.

79. One-sleeve gown with ruffles

The ruffle detail of this dress creates a feminine touch. It can be worn to a variety of functions where chic styles are appreciated.

80. One sleeve drape ensemble

This outfit has chic drape details and side pockets for a classy look. Add more glam with minimal makeup and accessories.

81. V-neck peplum with long sleeves

The dress features long puffy sleeves with elastic cuff detail and a back zipper. The peplum detail balances the body shape without exaggerating the hip size.

82. One-sleeved Ankara mini dress

The outfit is designed with a long sash on one side and a wrap detail bottom for style sophistication. It has one long statement sleeve.

83. Sophisticated African print mini figure-hugging dress

These uniquely-designed outfits have a sophisticated but elegant bodice extension. The feature flatters the bust area, while the figure-hugging dress accentuates the hips.

84. Fabric mix with strappy neckline

The outfit has a simple design perfect for a sunny day outing. The vibrant colours make it ideal for most casual outings where you need to look good.

85. Red and yellow party dress with tulle ruffle detail

Step out in style with this red and yellow party gown. Accessorize with matching earrings and a handbag for a chic appearance.

86. Bare-back with puffy sleeves

Let your back breathe in this bare-back ensemble. You can dress up or dress down, depending on the occasion.

87. Stretchy one-shoulder orange dress with asymmetrical ruffle hem

The dress features a puffy shoulder detail, a back zipper, and a ruffled asymmetrical hem. Its stretchy design makes it ideal for curvy ladies, and it can be worn to different functions like a girls' night out, date night, or a casual hangout.

88. Mini stretch with daring V-neckline and flare sleeves

This outfit is extremely flattering on all body types as it brings out all your curves. The dramatic flare sleeves make it more flirtatious, while the vibrant colour is ideal for all skin tones.

89. Stretchy bodycon with long flare split sleeves and rounded neckline

Create your own runway with this carefully designed fashion masterpiece. The dramatic flare split sleeves add glamour.

90. White shirt dress with African print detail

Showcase your beautiful legs in this uniquely designed summer outfit. The African cotton fabric addition makes it a perfect blend of traditional and Western styles.

What do you wear with a short gown?

There are several ways to style a short gown. You can wear it over matching leggings, tights or pants, pair it with a longer cardigan, wear knee-length boots, put on complementing accessories, wear it with sneakers, or pair it with sandals.

What is the name of the African suit?

The African suit is called Kiba. Its design is a combination of the suit features and those of the traditional African boubou.

Modern short African dresses are the new revolution in contemporary fashion. More designs are yet to be created in addition to the above show-stopping styles.

READ ALSO: 50+ amazing coffin nails on black skin ideas for 2023

Briefly.co.za highlighted over 50 coffin nails on black skin ideas that make the skin pop. Your chosen colour should make the skin look vivid without being too bright or juvenile.

Popular coffin nail designs today have artistic bling, embellishments, and colour combinations. The design you choose when going to a nail technician for a manicure depends on your personal taste.

Source: Briefly News