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Clothing in Ghana

People in Ghana take pride in how they dress. There is often a gender and generational divide in clothing in Ghana. The older generation tends to wear more traditional clothes, while the younger generation tends to wear the universal costume of youth: jeans and a t-shirt. Women tend to wear more traditional clothing than men. [...]

People in Ghana take pride in how they dress. There is often a gender and generational divide in clothing in Ghana. The older generation tends to wear more traditional clothes, while the younger generation tends to wear the universal costume of youth: jeans and a t-shirt. Women tend to wear more traditional clothing than men. However, especially as compared to other parts of the world, many people in Ghana take pride in continuing to wear their traditional clothing, even with the influx of Western styles. 

The traditional cloth associated with Ghana is called the Kente. Kente is made by the Akan people. It is a mix of cotton and silk and is worn for special occasions.

In everyday life women tend to wear a long skirt and a short sleeved top, often in bright colors and bold patterns. Long dresses are also worn, especially if they are going out. Women often wear head wraps that match or complement their outfit.

Men often wear a long smock over pants. These long smocks or tunics might be striped or feature some traditional symbols. It is especially worn by men in the north of Ghana.The ever popular plastic sandal is the most common shoe, though dress shoes are worn for business and sneakers are seen as well.

People traveling to Ghana should remember that it can get very hot there. Women should know that many women keep their thighs and midriffs covered. Tank tops are generally okay, but make sure you are fully covered if you don’t want a lot of extra attention.

An example of kente cloth in Ghana

Ghana Travel Guide

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Filed under: Africa, Clothing, Ghana

About the Author:

After traveling on her own for three or four years, Chaya met up with Wade Shepard, the editor of VagabondJourney.com. They were married in 2009, and continue to travel the world together with their young daughter. From time to time Chaya blogs about family travel and life on the road. has written 102 posts on Vagabond Journey. Contact the author.

Chaya Shepard is currently in: Xiamen, China

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  • Jessica March 14, 2017, 4:01 pm

    Thank you!
    That was very helpful!

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  • Alea January 5, 2019, 2:09 am

    I agree! It helped me a lot with my school project.

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