African clothing and fashion is a diverse topic that is able to provide a look into different African cultures. Clothing varies from brightly colored textiles, to abstractly embroidered robes, to colorful beaded bracelets and necklaces. Since Africa is such a large and diverse continent, traditional clothing differs throughout each country. For example, many countries in West Africa have a "distinct regional dress styles that are the products of long-standing textile crafts in weaving, dyeing, and printing", but these traditions are still able to coexist with western styles. A large contrast in African fashion is between rural and urban societies. Urban societies typically are exposed more to trade and the changing world, while it takes more time for new western trends to get to rural areas.

"Ankara and lace" is a popular and stylish fashion combination that involves mixing Ankara fabric (African wax print fabric) with lace fabric to create unique and elegant outfits. This combination blends the vibrant and colorful patterns of Ankara with the delicate and intricate designs of lace, resulting in a striking contrast that appeals to both traditional and modern fashion sensibilities.

Here are some key points to know about the Ankara and lace style:

1. **Ankara Fabric:** Ankara fabric is renowned for its bold and vibrant patterns, often characterized by geometric shapes, floral motifs, and bright colors. It has its origins in West African countries and is widely used to create various traditional and contemporary African garments and accessories.

2. **Lace Fabric:** Lace is a delicate and ornamental fabric characterized by intricate patterns and openwork designs. It is often associated with elegance, femininity, and sophistication. Lace fabrics can vary in terms of design, texture, and transparency, allowing for a range of creative possibilities.

3. **Combination of Ankara and Lace:** The combination of Ankara and lace fabrics allows designers and fashion enthusiasts to create visually appealing and unique outfits. This blend of two contrasting textiles adds depth, texture, and dimension to clothing. Common styles include dresses, skirts, tops, jumpsuits, and even accessories like headwraps and bags.

4. **Occasions and Styles:** Ankara and lace outfits can be versatile, suitable for both casual and formal occasions. Depending on the design and styling, they can be worn to weddings, parties, cultural events, and everyday wear. The combination allows for a fusion of traditional African aesthetics with contemporary fashion trends.

5. **Customization and Creativity:** One of the appealing aspects of Ankara and lace styles is the opportunity for customization and creativity. Fashion designers and individuals can experiment with various combinations, mixing different lace patterns with complementary or contrasting Ankara prints to create stunning and personalized looks.

6. **Global Popularity:** The Ankara and lace combination has gained popularity not only in Africa but also in other parts of the world. Many fashion enthusiasts and designers incorporate these fabrics into their collections, contributing to a global appreciation of African-inspired fashion.

When wearing Ankara and lace outfits, it's important to pay attention to color coordination, balance, and overall aesthetics to create a harmonious and stylish look. The combination allows for a harmonious blend of cultural heritage and contemporary fashion, making it a favorite choice among individuals who appreciate both tradition and innovation in clothing.

Please note that fashion trends can evolve, and new variations of styles may have emerged since my last knowledge update. For the most current and detailed information about Ankara and lace styles, I recommend checking out fashion blogs, magazines, and social media platforms that specialize in African and contemporary fashion.