There are numerous ethnic groups of people in Nigeria and they all have their own cultural traits, especially in dressing. Looking at the native designs women wear in 2024, the blend of tradition and modernity remains to be evident in the beautiful, lively, and fashionable garments. Here are the top native design styles commonly worn by Nigerian women in 2024 and how to style them.
1. Ankara (Prints)
Ankara remains a timeless and beloved fabric for Nigerian women. It is made of cotton material, and its colorful patterns depict what it means to be an African. The fashion trends of Ankara in the year 2024 will continue to trend with added creativity and a more complicated mix of designs like patch work, mixing of prints, three piece fits.
How to wear it:
i. For corporate occasions, you can wear Ankara skirts and blouse or Ankara jumpsuit with beautiful accessories.
ii. In the cases of outdoor events or special occasions, you
can opt for a floor-length voluminous Ankara gown cut in a high neck or
off-shoulder style. Better still, wear drop earrings and hold a small purse.
2. Aso Ebi
Aso Ebi is the name given to the matching sets of dresses worn by members of the family or friends of a celebrant in activities like marriage. The trend is continuous, and in the years to come Aso Ebi attires will be more of advanced designs and incorporate peplum tops, fishtail gowns, and capes.
How to wear it:
i. For Aso Ebi, use a design that fits the shape of your body to get the attention you desire. For instance, if you are an hourglass figure type, a mermaid gown will suit you well while a flared gown will be good for a slightly tall woman whose figure is not too curvy.
ii. Elevate your look with a traditional headwrap (Gele), beads, along with colour coordinated shoes.
3. Iro and Buba
Iro and buba is very popular among the Yorubas. It consists of an inner large wrapper (Iro) and an outer loose top (Buba). Known for its elegance, this style is always the star in most western celebrations, with updated modifications like use of lace, silk or sequin fabrics.
How to wear it:
i. This can be worn with a play of bold color combined with a chunky neckpiece and a well-tied gele.
ii. For a more contemporary and restrained approach to
the traditional style, go for solid colors or light prints.
4. Kaftan
Kaftans are preferred because they are very comfortable and can be worn on many occasions. This style, associated with the Hausa women of Nigeria today has become the fashion and acceptable dress code to be used by women of all the ethnic groups in Nigeria.
How to wear it:
i. For a casual setting, the short kaftan can be worn with sandals.
ii. In formal occasions such as weddings and other
receptions, a kaftan with beautiful embroidery can be dressed up with heels and
gold accessories.
5. Agbada
Agbada is a man’s outfit but in the recent past, Nigerian women have embraced the outfit as a fashion statement. In 2024, Agbada styles are more fitted and Further designed to fit the ladies’ shape, and many are decorated with beads or sequins.
How to wear it:
i. Choose a tight-fitting agbada that hugs your figure, especially around the waist.
ii. Wear trousers to match the fabric and style, and go
for pointed-toe heels to stay chic and classy.
6. George Wrapper and Blouse
This garment known as the George fabric is worn strictly by women from the southern eastern part of Nigeria, especially during weddings or any other ceremonial occasions. The design typically includes a blouse fully adorned with exquisite embroidery and a long piece of fabric tied around the waist.
How to wear it:
i. Choose a blouse with cut sleeves to add an original touch to this look.
ii. Complete the outfit with traditional coral beads and
a sleek clutch for a classy feel.
7. Adire
One of the most popular traditional fabrics of the Yoruba people of Nigeria, Adire, is also fast becoming popular worldwide due to its unique artistic designs. The modern look of Adire styles has made people experiment with colorful outlooks and unique patterns.
How to wear it:
i. Adire shirt or kimono can be combined with jeans for everyday wear or any informal occasions.
ii. For a more classic appearance, wear an Adire gown
with sandals and very little jewelry.
8. Lace Gowns
Lace has always been a preferred fabric for Nigerian women, especially for occasions like weddings and church events. Fashion designers are now incorporating additional drama in their laces with large sleeves, low necklines, and ruffled skirts.
How to wear it:
i. Go for a floor-length lace dress with a decorated bust area for exclusive events.
ii. Style with beautiful jewelry, strappy sandals, and a
matching gele to complete the look.
9. Buba and Sokoto
It was originally worn by men only but today Buba and Sokoto are admired by women giving the ladies a minimalistic look.
How to wear it:
i. Try combining them with fewer accessories and elegant high heels to get a very delicate look.
10. Wrapper and Blouse
Generally, Igbo women prefer wrappers and blouses for Traditional Igbo weddings and other festivities. The 2024 versions, however, offer much sexier blouses with off-shoulder designs and asymmetrical curves.
How to wear it:
i. Select wrapper fabric that has bright colors or striking designs to stand out.
ii. Complete the look with the elaborate coral beading,
the headgear known as the ichafu, and traditional African slippers.
Conclusion
2024 has seen a lot of beautiful creative native design
styles providing Nigerian women with different options for showcasing their
playful yet serious cultural pride and satisfaction in their individuality. To
elevate this styles, it is important to pick the right fitted designs that will
fit the body, understanding how to add jewelry, and mixing traditional looks
with modern ones for a classy and attractive look that never goes out of
fashion.
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