Occasion wear
Dressing for an owambe
From the invitation to the last dance, a practical guide to choosing a dress for a Nigerian celebration.
Start with the invitation
Before choosing a dress, check whether your host has specified a colour, a length or an aso ebi fabric for the occasion. Ask which part of the day it applies to if you are attending both the ceremony and the reception. A favourite ready-to-wear dress can work beautifully for an open dress code. For a coordinated family outfit, the host can tell you what to arrange.
Try the dress sitting down
The Anjola dress pairs a fitted, smocked bodice with a tiered skirt. Tie the halter, take a seat and lean forward as you would to greet someone across a table. Check whether the neckline stays where you want it and whether the ties feel comfortable. If you plan to carry a wrap for the ceremony, try it over the halter at home and see how the two sit together.
Leave room for dancing
Try a turn and a few side steps in the shoes you intend to wear. A maxi hem can clear the floor when you stand still and catch under your heel when you step back. For a reception on grass, a broad heel or a dressy flat gives you a steadier footing. Take a quick photograph in daylight before choosing a bag: a deep green picked out from the Anjola floral print is one easy place to start.