African clothing is a vibrant and diverse cultural tapestry, showcasing the continent's rich heritage through a wide range of styles, from brightly colored textiles and abstractly embroidered robes to intricate beaded accessories. Traditional attire varies significantly by region, reflecting unique histories and external influences; for instance, Northeastern Africa's jelabiya shows Middle Eastern inspiration, while West African countries boast distinct styles from long-standing textile crafts. Sahelian Africa is renowned for the ornate dashiki and grand boubou, often made from Bazin, contrasting with East Africa's kanzu for men and kanga for women.

In Southern Africa, distinctive shirts like the Madiba shirt are prominent, while the Horn of Africa features unique garments such as Ethiopia's habesha kemis and Somalia's khamis. Historically, precolonial groups like South Africa's Khoisan utilized softened animal skins and natural resources, highlighting the deep adaptability and local heritage in fashion. This rich spectrum of styles continues to evolve, often coexisting with Western trends, particularly in urban centers.