Aso-oke upgraded

By Vivian Onyebukwa

Aso-Oke is a prestigious, hand-woven textile from the Yoruba people of South Western Nigeria. It’s a traditional fabric made from cotton or silk, woven on a hand loom into strips and sewn together to create clothing for special occasions like weddings and chieftaincy coronations. This hand-woven textile, known for its vibrancy, is traditionally used as gele (headgear) and ipele (shawl).

However, as fashion evolves, aso-oke has been modernised into several trendy fashion styles including gathered bubu gowns with built-up necklines, tailored corset tops, chic two-piece sets like Irawò pants, and kimonos. Modern styles also blend Aso-Oke with ankara or lace for contemporary weddings and events. You can’t go wrong with Ankara/Aso-Oke combo.

One can also mix and match Aso Oke pants with silk, lace, chiffon, or denim tops. The contrast in textures creates a balance.

A little touch of Aso-Oke will make your outfit stand out. Incorporate Aso-Oke into modern silhouettes, such as jumpsuits or skirts, and come out chic.

Fashion pacesetters also use the cotton Aso-Oke for the complete set of iro and buba which, is iro (wrapper), ipele (shawl) and gele (head tie) because the cotton Aso-Oke is a breathable fabric and skin friendly. Also, the mix of beautiful thread colours makes the cotton Aso-Oke stunning and gives it a cultural, yet classy look.