In Nigeria, there are usually three types of weddings: court weddings, church weddings and traditional weddings. These weddings take place at different locations and most couples actually make all three dependent of course on their financial condition. In general, court weddings take place first, then the church wedding, then the traditional wedding ceremony. They are usually characterized by different colors and dance and music.
Duties vary from one part of Nigeria to the other with traditional weddings. As in the western parts, they refer to it as the engagement ceremony. Usually, seniors and officials drink wine while inviting the couple for introductions and negotiations. Negotiations include presentation of the bride price (gift), which also consists of gifts of shoes, jewelry, bags and textiles. Then there is festivity and fun. On the other hand, the eastern parts of the country somehow follow the same tradition and add a little more activities. Elderly bride and groom gather in a room to negotiate for dowry. Then presents are presented to the bride's family, then the bride is presented with her transfer of girls to the groom, groom and to the guests.
Speaking of traditional weddings, the following are the 5 most Nigerian wedding dresses.
1. Aso Okay
Aso Oke (read as Ah-Shaw-Okay) means top cloth. These are the dresses woven by Yoruba men in Nigeria. Men's aso and dresses are called agbada. We must understand that there are three main types of aso oke dresses: Alaari, Sanyan and Etu. Alaari are the red ones; Sanyan which are usually brown or light brown azo dresses; Etu, the dark blue aso and the dresses.
Aso Oke dresses are worn throughout the southwestern part of Nigeria during their wedding. Women's aso and garments usually consist of four parts: the Yoruba blouse called "Buba", the wrap skirt called "Iro", the head tie called "Gele", and the shawl or shoulder strap called "Iborun" or "Ipele". Usually agbada and pants are usually called "sokoto".
2. Ankara
Ankara is actually one of the cheapest traditional fabrics made using Indonesian batik manufacturing techniques. It has tribal-like patterns with bright colors. Unlike Aso Oke, which is used specifically for weddings and other occasions, Ankara is also used for everyday wear.
3. Aso Ebi
Aso ebi means "uniformed solidarity dress". These dresses are known for their connection to weddings and other special occasions. It is the oldest and most valuable type of African clothing. They are like uniform dresses that family members wear during weddings and other special events in Nigeria.
Basically, Aso ebi serves a number of functions. First, it ensures continuity in relation to the use and production of previous clothes – aso oke. Second, it helps visitors identify the wife / groom / famous family members or those belonging to the same social or religious group with the groom or bride or celebrity. Thirdly, it is used not only by Nigerians but also by the other African countries.
Weddings are the most important events to use aso ebi but they can also be used on all public or official occasions.
4. Jewel of Lisa
Jewel by lisa is a luxurious dress with a mix of modern and traditional design. It was the first to decorate Ankara with sequins, Swarovski crystals and pearls.
Jewel by lisa is among the amazing African dresses that can be used in weddings. It is women's clothing and accessories collection that will become the most prominent Nigerian luxury brand with its careful attention to high quality details and craftsmanship.
5. Bella naija
Like the other traditional wedding dresses, bellanaija adds beauty to a wedding. It is used in many Nigerian weddings as aso ebi dresses. Below are dresses from Bellanaija used in Nigerian weddings.