Etu, Sanyan or Alaari? Choosing aso-oke for your introduction.
Aso-oke is the cloth Yoruba families reach for when the occasion matters. Here is how to choose between the three classics, and how much to buy.
Tola Adeola
Founder & Lead Couturier
Aso-oke means "top cloth". It is woven by hand on narrow looms, mostly in and around Iseyin in Oyo State, as long strips about four inches wide. The strips are then sewn edge to edge into a full cloth. That is why genuine aso-oke has visible seams every few inches and why no two pieces are exactly alike.
The three classics
Etu
Deep indigo, sometimes almost black, with fine light stripes. Serious and regal; a favourite for the groom's family and for chiefs.
Sanyan
Woven from beige wild silk. Soft, warm and quietly expensive; it suits older celebrants and elegant mothers of the bride.
Alaari
Crimson red. Bold and celebratory, often chosen by brides who want to be seen across the hall.
Modern aso-oke adds lurex (metallic thread), sequins and new colours to these traditions. We work with both. If your family has a colour card, send us a photo and we'll match the weave to it.
How much do you need?
Aso-oke is sold as a set. For a woman, a set usually covers an iro (wrapper), a gele (head tie) and an ipele (shoulder sash). The buba (blouse) is often made from lace in a matching colour. For a man, a full agbada set uses more cloth than any other outfit. We confirm exact quantities after your sketch, so you never buy too little or pay for strips you won't use.
"Buy your gele from the same weaver as the iro. Two batches of the same colour are never quite the same."
Matching the couple
For an introduction or engagement, the bride's iro and gele and the groom's agbada and fila are usually cut from the same aso-oke, with lace or a contrasting cloth for the buba. Tell us both outfits in one brief and we'll sketch them side by side.
Planning an introduction?
Send us your date and colours. Your first sketch arrives within 48 hours.
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