Can a bride be complete without the gele on her traditional marriage ceremony? In the African culture, the gele is one of the fashion piece that continues to pass from generation to generation. Gele is the Yoruba term for a woman’s headpiece.Though it is traditionally part of the Yoruba attire, other tribes are wearing the gele as well.
It is a final adornment that serves as woman’s crown and compliments as her looks. Every woman wears gele with pride because it symbolises elegance, maturity and wealth.
The gele has become versatile these days, it can be rocked for other occasions apart from weddings such as birthdays, christening, inaugurations or even funerals. But it is fashion staple for any bride on her traditional wedding day.
Gele-tying is an art. It takes a creative individual to tie a beautiful gele. Some resemble blossoming flowers whilst others are more fan-like. It is usually matches the colours of the rest of her outfit.
History makes us believe that before the slavery, the gele was imporatant. Men were judged by how their wives’ gele/head gear. It showed they were spiritual and prosperous. The men also used it to show off their wealth and social status.
The gele is a large rectangular cloth tied on a woman’s head in a variety of fashions. It is made up of stiff, but flexible fabric such as ofi, aso-oke, brocade (cotton) and damask.
The gele should cover the hair completely and must be tied at the back of the neck. The gele is one highlight of the African bride’s outfit. The attention shifts from the body to her facial beauty.
See photos of beautiful brides rocking the gele below:
