Gele is a Nigerian word for a woman’s head wrap. This traditional accessory is an essential part of the African woman’s dressing, most especially for ‘Owambe’ parties or special occasions. It is often large and stiff, made from materials like Aso-oke, Ankara, Damask, Swiss, and Jubilee. The style and formality of the gele depend on the theme and gravity of the event. This article will delve into the importance of gele for ‘Owambe’ parties and provide a step-by-step guide on how to style your gele like a professional.
Understanding the Importance of Gele for Owambe Parties
In the African culture, and Nigeria in particular, ‘Owambe’ parties are an integral part of the societal fabric. These parties, from weddings to funerals and birthdays, are often characterized by a display of beautiful, vibrant, and alluring traditional attires, with the gele being a crowning glory. The gele serves as a cultural identity, demonstrating the event’s formality and the wearer’s fashion sense. It is a show of elegance and sophistication that is deeply rooted in tradition and heritage.
In addition, the gele also serves a symbolic purpose. The size, design, and how neatly it is tied often indicate the status and class of the wearer. The more elaborate and sophisticated the gele, the higher the social standing of the wearer is perceived to be. Moreover, the gele is seen as a form of respect and a nod to the ancestors, a way of carrying forward the traditions and customs of past generations.
Finally, the gele is an extension of personal style and creativity. The array of designs, fabrics, and techniques used to tie a gele offers women the opportunity to express their individuality and fashion sense. The gele is no longer just a traditional head wrap but now a fashion statement that completes the overall outfit for an ‘Owambe’ party.
Step-by-Step Guide: Pro Techniques to Style Your Gele
Styling your gele like a pro requires practice, patience, and a bit of creativity. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you achieve that professional touch. First, ensure your hair is properly packed and flattened to create a good base for the gele. You can use hairpins to secure your hair in place.
Next is choosing your material. The type of material you choose will affect the outcome of your gele style. Aso-oke and Jubilee fabrics are often used for elaborate styles due to their stiffness. For beginners, the ‘Sego’ fabric is recommended due to its lightness and flexibility. Once you have your fabric, fold it into two equal halves to create a slight edge at the top. This edge is what creates the beautiful layers seen in a gele.
The tying of the gele begins at the back of the head. Wrap the gele around, making sure one side is shorter than the other. The longer side will go around the head twice while the shorter side is just wrapped once. Make sure to pull the fabric tightly as you wrap to ensure it stays in place. The next step is creating the pleats. This technique requires careful folding and arranging of the fabric to create the iconic layers. After creating the pleats, secure the gele by tying both ends at the back of the head. You can then adjust and arrange the pleats and layers to your liking.
Mastering the art of tying and styling a gele like a pro is no small feat. However, with patience, practice, and the right techniques, you can create beautiful, stunning geles that will make you stand out at any ‘Owambe’ party. Remember, the gele is not just a fashion accessory; it is a symbol of culture, tradition, and personal style. Therefore, as you tie your gele, remember you are wearing a crown of elegance and a testament to your heritage.
