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Owambe style guide

Agbada styles

The agbada is the wide, flowing robe worn over a matching buba and sokoto. It makes an entrance before the wearer says a word.

These are the looks to know, whether you are the groom, a friend of the family or the best-dressed guest in the room.

Styles to know

• Classic three-piece

  Agbada, buba and sokoto in coordinating fabrics. The standard for weddings and big celebrations.

• Embroidered agbada

  Hand or machine embroidery around the neckline and chest. The detail is what people photograph.

• Aso oke agbada

  Handwoven aso oke gives a rich texture and a traditional feel, often worn for engagements and naming ceremonies.

• Lightweight agbada

  Thinner fabrics and shorter sleeves for hot venues or day parties, without losing the shape.

• Matching your partner

  Pick up a colour or trim from her aso ebi or gele so the two of you read as a pair.

Before you sew

• Get the sleeve and length checked while seated and standing, since the robe moves differently on each.
• The cap finishes the outfit: choose one that suits the fabric and sits comfortably through a long day.
• Plan your shoes and walking comfort. Agbada is long, so shoes show less, but you still dance in them.
• Practice putting the robe on and arranging the sleeves before the event.
• Ask your tailor how to care for embroidery and aso oke so it lasts for the next celebration.

More guides: Aso ebi styles · Gele styles