Fashion Dynamics of Aso-Ebi with the Use of Ankara and Lace Fabrics among the Yoruba of Southwestern Nigeria

Aso-ebi is a traditional practice among the Yoruba of southwestern Nigeria that is continuous despite the modern trend in fashion and styles. Originally, it was referred to asa uniform dress worn by family members during social events in Nigeria but now, it has included a group of friends and well-wishers that goes beyond the Yoruba ethnic group. The practice was formerly used not to identify the social distinction, but in recent times the trends in fashion are creating a class of distinction among the wearers. The study critically examines the trends in aso-ebi fashion with the use of two prominent fabrics – Ankara and lace among the Yoruba of southwestern Nigeria. Methodologically, the study adopts a survey research design with the use of qualitative methods in analyzing the data. Groups and individual users were interviewed with an unstructured questionnaire while their photographs were taken with consent. The study reveals that aso-ebi is seen in almost all ceremonies while some people create a class of distinction out of the fabric in the same event.