Owambe style guide
Aso ebi styles
Aso ebi is the matching fabric that family and friends wear to a celebration, so the whole crowd looks like one beautiful story. The fabric is chosen by the hosts. How you sew it is up to you, and that is where the style lives.
Here are the cuts people keep coming back to, and a few things worth knowing before you visit the tailor.
Styles to know
Iro and buba
The classic wrapper and fitted blouse. Timeless, comfortable for a long day, and easy to dress up with a gele and jewellery.
Corset or bustier with wrapper
A structured top with a tied skirt. It gives shape without a heavy gown, and works with lace, damask and ankara.
Mermaid and trumpet gowns
Fitted through the hips and flared at the hem. A favourite for lace aso ebi, especially for the bridal train and close friends.
Peplum and puff sleeves
A short flare at the waist or full sleeves add drama to a simple skirt, and photograph well from every angle.
Two-piece skirt and blouse
Easy to move in and easy to restyle later with different tops or skirts.
Off-shoulder and square necklines
Show off your neckline and your jewellery. Pair with a gele that sits high so nothing competes.
Before you sew
- Order your fabric as early as the host allows. Popular colours and the exact same lot can run out.
- Take a photo of the style you want, and bring your measurements and your shoes to the fitting.
- Ask your tailor for a fitting before the final stitch, not just on the day you collect.
- Plan the extras with the outfit: gele, bag, shoes, jewellery and any fan or beads.
- Keep a little extra fabric in case an adjustment is needed.
Show your own look
Post your outfit from the next celebration, tag the people who made it, and let your friends give you their Hype.
More guides: Gele styles · Agbada styles