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Africa · Life Style · Dress · Culture desk

The gele is sculpture worn on the head

A carefully tied headwrap can finish an outfit, identify an occasion and transform a wearer’s silhouette.

Three sculptural gele headwraps in emerald green, burnt orange and purple displayed on forms
Image supplied to Na Wetin Dey Happen
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Gele tying ranges from modest folded forms to dramatic fans and pleats. Fabric choice changes the result: aso oke gives structure, while softer textiles create a more relaxed shape.

At Nigerian weddings, a coordinated gele can connect an entire aso ebi group. Professional tiers have turned the practice into a creative service, but many families still pass techniques from one generation to the next.

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Culture & Screen Desk

The Culture & Screen Desk reports African film, food, dress and living traditions with attention to makers, local meaning, labour and change.

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