Aso-oke is a woven textile that originated from Yoruba culture. Originally from the southwestern states of Nigeria, such as Osun, Oyo, and Ondo states, it has been passed down through generations and has stood the test of time, maintaining its cultural and fashionable significance.
What is Aso-Oke?
Funke Akindele. Photo – Instagram / @funkejenifaakindele
Aso-oke, meaning “top cloth,” when translated to English, is a hand-woven fabric made from silk, cotton, and threads. Furthermore, the weavers make use of traditional looms to create the fabric, carefully printing patterns, motifs, and embellishments on them. Additionally, they often dye the threads using naturally derived dyes, a popular one being from the indigo plant, before creating the final product. Moreover, this method is labor-intensive and is usually done by skilled artisans who have years of experience.
Traditional styling
Influencer, Tomike, in an Aso-oke Iro and Buba. Photo – Instagram / @tomike_a
Aso-oke is synonymous with Yoruba culture. It is worn during special ceremonies such as weddings, chieftaincy titles, festivals, burials and the like. For women, it is styled as Iro and Buba. The Iro is a rectangular piece of fabric wrapped around the waist, almost resembling a skirt. It could be long, reaching one’s ankles, or short, reaching one’s knees. The Buba is a loose-fitting blouse with wide sleeves. The attire is then completed with a Gele, a head tie that pulls the whole look together.
Men, too, wear Aso-oke. Often styling it as an Agbada, a free-flowing long top with wide sleeves, paired with inner garments and matching pants called Sokoto. Just like the gele for women, the men’s look is completed with a cap, also known as Fila.
READ ALSO: 8 Fashion Tips Women In Their 20s Should Follow
Aso-oke in modern times
Deola Sagoe’s designs. Photo – Instagram / @deolasagoeofficial
Beyond its traditional styling, it has taken on a new aesthetic in recent times with designers offering their unique designs. Deola Sagoe, a popular Nigerian fashion brand, has created new Aso-oke pieces for brides during their traditional marriage ceremonies. Sagoe’s designs have made her designs a must-have for many brides.
Other Nigerian fashion brands, such as Ladunni Lambo and Kilentar, have embraced Aso-oke, creating new styles that appeal to a wider audience. These brands have designed pieces worn by celebrities, like Tems, Tracee Ellis Ross, Victoria Monet, and Temi Otedola.
New ways of wearing Aso-oke
Photo – Instagram / @styleconnausseur
Aso-oke has taken on a new path as a versatile fabric that has led to its styling beyond traditional garments. Today, the hand-woven fabric can be tailored to make two-piece sets, gowns, and jumpsuits.
Photo – Instagram / @kilentar
Photo – Instagram / @styleconnausseur
Also, not only has the fabric preserved its Yoruba roots, but its appeal is being expanded, making it a favourite for various occasions beyond the typical grand ceremonies.
Finally, Aso-oke continues to maintain its place as a cherished and significant fabric in the hearts of Nigerians, and now fashion enthusiasts around the world.
The post Aso-Oke: New Ways To Style This Yoruba Textile appeared first on Guardian Nigeria News.
