01/11/2020
What do we know about the historical antecedent of A*O OKE/ A*O OFI as it was originally called?…………
A*O OFI started centuries ago amongst the Yorubas but predominantly amongst the Iseyins(Oyo State), Ede(Osun State), and Okene(Kogi State) and some African Countries like Ghana and Abidjan. A*O OFI is hand woven, typically sewn together to make a local clothing. Festivals Coronations and weddings are not complete without A*o Oke(A*O OFI),
The three Yoruba classic A*O OFI are Sanyan(Full pronunciation; Sanyanmiran), Alaari and Etu. These A*o Oke are worn for big occasions in the Olden days. There are variations in weaves and colors but Sanyan remains the Carton Colored mixed with white stripes while Etu is the Dark blue and black and the last is Alaari which usually comes in red but there are other variations.
In the past, these classic A*o OFI are woven in silk which makes them affordable only to Royalty and the people of class and wealth in the society. But nowadays the fabric is not only for the nouveau rich in the Society, it is so affordable that anyone can afford it. They are unique and beautifully designed. Now you can add more colors and also weave different patterns.
A*o oke is CULTURE.. Gorgeously complimenting any attire. No wonder till date, it is recogised and accepted as the official YORUBA WEDDING(most especially ENGAGEMENT) apparel of a couple. It is rich when well coordinated and put together. Not only the bride and groom, even the family are not left out as A*o Oke is used for A*o Ebi(for uniformity) of the family. Other tribes have also grown fond of A*o oke.
Which is your favorite of these Classic Yoruba A*o Ofi?........ SANYAN, ETU OR ALAARI?.
