The weekend is here, bringing with it numerous owambes. One way to switch up your head fashion is by exploring the versatile and traditional Nigerian headgear, particularly the gele. In this article, we will delve into the different styles, materials, and significance of gele, offering you fashionable ways to wear them.
Historical Significance of Gele
The gele is a traditional head wrap worn by West African women, predominantly Nigerian ladies, with native dress styles such as Iro and Buba, lace skirts and blouses, and other native wear. Historically, gele signified a woman’s marital and social status, with intricate designs and high-quality fabrics indicating royalty or wealth. Over time, gele styles have evolved, offering various options to suit different face shapes and personal styles.
Fashionable Ways to Wear Gele
There are numerous types of gele, each offering a unique style and statement. Let’s look at a few:
1. The Fan Gele
The Fan Gele, for instance, resembles a fan with elaborate, spread-out folds, making it suitable for weddings and high-profile events. This style is typically made with Aso-oke or Ankara fabric, adding a touch of tradition and glamour.
2. The Infinity Pleated Gele
This gele, characterized by continuous, tiny pleats, is popular as an autogele due to its ease of use. It is often crafted from silk or satin, providing a sophisticated look without the hassle of tying it from scratch.
Read: The Nigerian Owambe Tradition
3. The Simple/Casual Style
For more casual outings, the Simple or Casual Gele offers a small cap-like shape with fancy ruffled edges and can be made from any lightweight fabric. This style is perfect for everyday wear, providing a chic yet understated appearance.
4. The Pleated Gele with Ruffles
This style includes pleats with ruffled sections for added flair, making it perfect for traditional weddings and ceremonies. This style is usually made from Aso-oke or other thick fabrics, ensuring it maintains its shape and elegance throughout the event.
5. Fancy Beaded
The Gele with Fancy Beads is a great choice for those looking to make a bold statement. This style is embellished with beads of various sizes and colours, which is best for traditional weddings and festive events. It is crafted from heavy fabrics that can support the weight of the beads.
6. The Side Fan With a Twist
The Side Fan Gele with Twist features a twisted section on the side for a unique look, making it suitable for both formal and semi-formal occasions. This style is typically made from Aso-oke, silk, or satin, which adds a modern twist to traditional headgear.
7. The Big Guns
The Big Gele with Pleats and Prints is known for its large, elaborate designs, often with bold prints, which make it ideal for brides and major celebrations. This style is typically made from Ankara or any vibrant, printed fabric, ensuring the bride stands out.
Read: The Different Types of Fila Worn by Yoruba Men
8. With a Bow
The Gele with a Bow includes a playful and elegant bow, suitable for both casual and formal events. This style is made from light to medium-weight fabrics and adds a touch of whimsy and elegance.
9. High and Mighty
High Gele Styles are known for their tall designs that make a bold statement and are best for high-profile events and formal gatherings. Crafted from sturdy fabrics like Aso-oke, these styles will make an impression.
10. Satin/Organza Gele
The Gele with Satin or Organza offers a shimmering and elegant look, perfect for wedding guests and festive occasions. This style is typically made from satin, organza, or any other shiny fabric, which provides a glamorous touch to any outfit.
Read: Ankara and Kente Prints: Essential Tips for Styling
Matching Your Gele with Outfits
When pairing gele with outfits, it’s essential to consider the fabric and colour of both your attire and headgear. A matching gele made from the same fabric as your outfit can create a cohesive and polished look. For instance, an Ankara dress with a matching Ankara gele provides a unified and harmonious appearance. Alternatively, a contrasting yet complementary colour can make your ensemble pop, such as pairing a bright gele with a neutral outfit to add a splash of colour.
Fabrics like silk, satin, organza, Aso-oke, and Ankara offer versatility in style and texture, allowing you to tailor your gele to the occasion and your personal taste. Mixing and matching fabrics can also add an interesting dimension to your look, such as combining a lace outfit with a satin gele.
Gele and other Nigerian headgear offer a beautiful way to celebrate cultural heritage while embracing modern fashion trends. Whether attending a wedding, festive celebration, or casual outing, there is a gele style to suit every occasion and personal taste.
Ready to elevate your style with the timeless elegance of Nigerian headgear? Whether you’re preparing for a wedding, festive celebration, or casual outing, a perfect gele style is waiting for you. Start your journey into the world of gele today and make a stunning statement at your next event.