Opeoluwa Amartey
Nigeria, being a country that is rich in cultural diversity, has a stylish culture that does not only bind but also influences its different states.
The Nation expresses diversity through its fashion styles, each state having its unrivaled and distinctive traditional attires.
The southwestern states for instance, are known for their Adire and Batik, colorful fabrics usually kept for special occasions.
The Yoruba attire, known for its distinctive patterns and vibrant colors, is truly unique in its entirety. An example of this is the Aso Oke or The Agbada often worn by their Women and Men respectively on special occasions.
Northern states, on the other hand, are known to home elegant outfits like Kaftans and Abayas often garnished by fine jewelry and beading.
They are simple, modest and elegant in their style which includes flowing robes and headscarves as it reflects their respect for culture, religion as well as creativity.
The Igbo people, from the southeast, is another tribe known for their rooted dress codes in flashy bright colors.
The “Isiagu”, a traditional Igbo costume worn often at special events is another common fashion item in the Igbo community. The Isiagu ranges in colorful patterns or vibrant designs that brings out the Igbo people’s rich cultural heritage.
States in the south-south, Rivers, Delta and Edo state, have a wide range of fashion styles which reflects different cultures. The people in this region are recognized to have elegant attires that come with beautiful designs and patterns.
However, over the past years, the introduction of fashion fusion has become the order of the day as designers now merge traditional designs with their modern designs giving it a unique twist.
This move is a result of flourishing interest of our fashion industry on a national scale. Overall, it may be said that the diversity in the nation’s fashion reflects the country’s cultural diversity.
From the ASO OKE of the Yoruba tribes to the ISIAGU of the Igbo people, to the KAFTAN Of the Hausa tribe and several other. It is evident that each tribe has its distinctive fashion style which helps to conclude that Nigeria is rich in culture.