The Fabulous West African Gele!

What is a "Gele"? Gele pronounced "gaye lay" is an African head wrap/head-tie that has its roots in the Yoruba tribe in Nigeria, West Africa. This female head wrap, usually worn at occasions such as weddings, is used specifically as an ornamental head covering or fashion accessory.

A "Gele" is a flat piece of fabric. Not just any kind of fabric but typically Aso Oke (Jean-like fabric), Brocade (Starched Cotton fabric), African Print, Paper-like fabric with plain or bold patterns, Damask (heavily patterned Paper-like, Velvet-like fabric), wrapped by hand to form a hat-like looking structure!

 

The fabric can vary in texture and length. To make the "gele"  look great, it needs to have a very strong base.

Africans looking fabulous! Don't you just agree?

 

xoxo