Top African Accessories to Level Up Your Summer Look
Let’s be honest — getting dressed in African wear is more than just putting on clothes. It’s an experience. It’s culture, confidence, and character all woven into one. Whether you're heading to a wedding, a naming ceremony, a beach brunch, or a casual hangout, it’s the accessories that take your look from beautiful to unforgettable.
And this summer? It’s time to glow differently.
At Ishesi, we know the power of a bold gele, the charm of handcrafted beads, the elegance of a well-matched clutch, and the ease of sandals made with love. So if you're planning your next outfit, let us help you complete the look with the perfect accessories — curated with African pride and a whole lot of style.
Gele: The Crown Every Queen Deserves
The gele is more than just a headwrap. It’s a symbol of power, elegance, and cultural identity. In Yoruba tradition, wearing a gele is a way of saying, "I’ve arrived." Whether you’re tying it up high for a dramatic flair or opting for a chic and effortless auto-gele, this timeless accessory always adds grace and regality.
At events like weddings, church thanksgiving, traditional engagements, or birthdays, a beautifully wrapped gele makes you stand taller, smile brighter, and carry yourself with that unmistakable queen energy. And with so many fabric options — from richly woven Aso Oke to soft tulle and shimmering Sego — you’ll find one that suits both the occasion and your personality.
Style Tip: Want to turn heads? Choose a gele in a colour that either contrasts your outfit or picks up a subtle hue in the fabric. Deep golds, burgundies, and teals always pop, especially when paired with beaded jewellery and matching shoes.
Bonus Tip: If you're not confident in tying one yourself, auto-gele styles offer that same majestic feel — without the arm workout.
Beads That Speak Without Words
Beads have been a part of African culture for centuries, and today, they remain a stunning way to express identity and beauty. Every string tells a story — whether it’s coral beads worn by Yoruba brides to honour tradition, or colourful layered strands that bring vibrance to everyday wear.
Wearing African beads isn’t just about looking good; it’s about carrying heritage on your body with pride. Coral bead sets, especially when paired with Aso Oke or lace attire, radiate royalty and elegance. On the other hand, multi-coloured bead necklaces and bracelets add a modern twist, making even simple outfits come alive. For something more intimate and personal, waist beads add a subtle touch of beauty and sensuality that’s as old as tradition itself.
Style Tip: For bridal or formal looks, go for coral bead sets or bold chokers. If your outfit is already colourful, try beads in earth tones or metallics for balance. And don't underestimate how stunning layered beaded bracelets can be — especially against bare arms in sleeveless summer dresses.
Step into Summer with African Sandals
Nothing says “summer-ready” like the right pair of sandals, and African sandals combine comfort with style in the best way possible. Handcrafted from leather, often adorned with beads, embroidery, or Ankara accents, these sandals are made for both movement and admiration.
They’re light on the feet, perfect for long party days and evening strolls, yet stylish enough to complement your most elegant outfits. Whether you’re slipping into a kaftan, a maxi dress, or even agbada, a pair of authentic African sandals will tie the whole look together — no pun intended.
Style Tip: Match the detailing on your sandals (beads, colours, fabric) to something else in your outfit — like a clutch or jewellery. If your outfit is doing the most, keep your sandals neutral. But if you’re rocking something simple, feel free to let your shoes steal the show.
Clutches That Carry Culture
Every look needs a good bag, and African clutches do so much more than carry your essentials. They add texture, colour, and tradition to your style. Made from fabrics like Aso Oke, Ankara, and raffia, our clutches are the perfect arm candy for weddings, birthdays, and cultural events.
The detailing on each clutch — from hand-stitching to beading — makes them small but mighty showstoppers. And when you match your clutch to your gele or accessories? The result is a coordinated look that says, "I know who I am, and I dress like it."
Style Tip: Try a monochromatic look — a wine-coloured dress, a wine-coloured gele, and a wine-toned clutch in Aso Oke. Or, go playful: pick a clutch in a bold Ankara print to jazz up a minimalist outfit.
Pro Hack: Use your clutch to introduce a pop of contrast colour — like a cobalt clutch with a mustard yellow outfit.
The Final Touch: Earrings, Headpieces, and All That Sparkle
Sometimes, all you need is one standout piece to turn heads. African earrings and headpieces are designed to do exactly that. From cowrie shell earrings that hint at our coastal roots, to bronze hoops and wooden studs that connect us to the earth, these pieces elevate your look with cultural flair.
Headpieces, especially beaded crowns or embellished tiaras, are perfect for special roles at ceremonies — from brides and celebrants to mothers of the couple. These pieces aren’t just stylish, they’re symbolic, echoing the strength, grace, and beauty of the women who wear them.
Style Tip: Big earrings go well with off-shoulder dresses or high-neck blouses. If you're rocking a dramatic gele, stick to medium-sized earrings. But if your head is bare or you’ve tied a simple scarf, oversized earrings can become your statement piece.
And most importantly? Wear your accessories with confidence. That’s the real showstopper.
Complete the Look with Ishesi
The beauty of African wear lies not only in its fabrics and colours but also in how you accessorise it. A gele, a clutch, a pair of beads — each piece adds a layer of story, of pride, and of individuality.
At Ishesi, we believe in curating more than just clothes. We curate moments, memories, and expressions of identity. Our accessories are sourced and styled with love, made by artisans who know their craft, and designed to help you step into every room with confidence.
This summer, don’t just wear African fashion. Live it. Own it. Elevate it.
Visit https://www.ishesi.com/collections/accessories and explore accessories that speak your language, match your outfit, and honour your heritage.
💬 Ready to Level Up Your Look?
You’ve got the outfit — now complete the look. From weddings to weekend parties, your perfect accessory is waiting. Shop now and bring your summer wardrobe to life.
Whatsapp us!