Winter Chic in Full Skirted Ankara Dress and Cocoon Wool Coat

In my opinion, the best coat to pair with any African party outfit such as an ankara dress or a lace skirt and blouse is a wool coat. The style and cut of the outfit determines the type of coat to wear. For instance, if you are wearing a fitted maxi guipure lace dress, you should go for a wool coat that is midi or full in length. If you are wearing a short or midi ankara dress, consider a not so boring peacoat (here & here), a walker coat (here), a structured cocoon coat (here), a wrap coat (here, here & here) or a trench (here).

Choose to wear a coat that does not have a hemline that extends way past the edge of your dress or skirt. For instance, you should not wear a full length coat with a lace or ankara dress. You should always consider your hemline when choosing which coat to pair with your outfit. Try not to wear a short trench with a maxi outfit. The proportions will just look off.

Always opt for a coat that is flattering and have a ladylike silhouette. I have seen people pair their ankara or lace outfit with puffer, parka and unflattering trench coats especially to parties and I wonder why. You put so much effort into making a beautiful and dressy outfit and then turn around to kill your look by pairing it with the wrong coat.

If you have a pleated full-skirted ankara dress like this House of Nini1 version I am wearing, the best coat to style it is a cozy cocoon silhouette wool coat such as this J.Crew version I paired it with. I chose this particular coat because of these five reasons

1. It is thick and warm enough to keep me cozy and comfortable especially with exposed legs
2. It has a high collar neckline that wraps around the neck which means a scarf is not necessary
3. It has enough room to accommodate the fullness of the skirt of the dress
4. It looks and feels luxe
5. It was on sale for 40% off
6. It has the perfect toffee color