Design Your Own Traditional Attire: A DIY Guide to Nigerian Fashion

Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage is beautifully expressed through its traditional attire, which varies across the different ethnic groups in the country.

From the vibrant Ankara prints of the Yoruba to the intricate Aso Oke and the regal George fabric of the Igbo, Nigerian fashion is diverse and full of life. Designing your own traditional attire is a creative and fulfilling way to connect with this heritage while showcasing your personal style. Here’s a DIY guide to help you create your own Nigerian traditional attire.

Choose Your Fabric

The first step in designing traditional Nigerian attire is selecting the right fabric. Nigerian fashion is known for its bold patterns and vibrant colours, so choose a fabric that resonates with you.

Ankara: This versatile fabric is popular across Nigeria for its colourful prints and affordability. It’s perfect for making dresses, skirts, blouses, and even men’s agbadas.
Aso Oke: Traditionally worn by the Yoruba people, Aso Oke is a handwoven fabric that is often used for special occasions like weddings. It’s ideal for headwraps (geles), agbadas, and iro and buba sets.
George Fabric: Commonly used in the Eastern region, George fabric is known for its elaborate designs and is often used to make wrappers, blouses, and dresses.
Lace: Lace is a favourite for formal attire across Nigeria, often used for blouses and dresses paired with wrappers or skirts.

Design Your Outfit

Once you’ve selected your fabric, it’s time to design your outfit. Consider the occasion for which you’re making the attire, as well as your personal style preferences.

Buba and Iro: This classic Yoruba outfit consists of a loose-fitting blouse (buba) and a wrap skirt (iro). The ensemble is often completed with a matching headwrap (gele).
Agbada: Agbada is a flowing gown worn by men, often paired with matching trousers and a cap (fila). It’s traditionally worn at formal events.
Kaftan: A versatile choice, the kaftan is a long, flowing dress that can be worn by both men and women. It’s comfortable, stylish, and perfect for both casual and formal settings.
Wrapper and Blouse: Common in both Eastern and Southern Nigeria, this outfit pairs a long wrapper with an elegant blouse. It’s often accessorised with beads and headwraps.

Sketch your design or find inspiration from existing styles. You can add unique touches, such as embroidery, beading, or appliqué, to make your outfit truly one-of-a-kind.

Take Measurements

Accurate measurements are crucial to ensure your attire fits perfectly. Use a tape measure to take your bust, waist, hip, and shoulder measurements. For outfits like agbadas or kaftans, you’ll also need to measure the length of the gown. Write down your measurements and double-check them to avoid any errors.

Cut and Sew

If you’re skilled in sewing, you can cut and sew the fabric yourself. Use your measurements and design as a guide. If you’re not comfortable sewing, you can take your fabric and design to a professional tailor who specialises in traditional Nigerian attire.

Cutting: Lay out your fabric on a flat surface and mark the pattern using chalk. Carefully cut the fabric, ensuring all pieces match your design.
Sewing: Begin by sewing the main pieces together, such as the bodice and skirt. Finish by adding any embellishments, zippers, or buttons.

Accessorize

No traditional Nigerian outfit is complete without the right accessories. Choose jewellery, headwraps, and shoes that complement your attire.

Gele: For women, a gele is a must-have accessory. Learn how to tie your gele or have it professionally tied.
Jewellery: Beads, gold, or silver jewellery can enhance the elegance of your outfit. Choose pieces that match the colour and style of your attire.
Footwear: Complete your look with traditional footwear like beaded slippers or leather sandals.

Designing your own traditional Nigerian attire is a creative and rewarding process that allows you to express your individuality while celebrating your cultural heritage. By carefully selecting your fabric, designing your outfit, and adding personalised touches, you can create a unique piece that stands out at any event. Whether you’re making a buba and iro, an agbada, or a kaftan, your DIY traditional attire will reflect both your personal style and the richness of Nigerian fashion.