J&O Fabrics Store Newsletter

Dear Netfah,

I just recently came back from a trip to Africa and was amazed at some of the beautiful head dresses the women wore there. I am interested in duplicating the look and have seen some "How To" videos on Youtube that seem helpful in getting me started. From your online caricature pic, I figured you also wear some type of head covering and wanted your opinion on the type of fabric best suited for the style. I am looking to start off with probably a versatile color like black or white that I can wear with various outfits, and something that will not slip off too easily. I also need to know how much yardage I should consider buying to create the look I am going for. Not too high, yet not "bandanna" style either. Any assistance you can offer would be greatly appreciated.

Signed,

Africa Adorned from Tennessee, USA

Dear Africa Adorned,

Yes, the women of the over 47 countries that make up the beautiful continent of Africa definitely have mastered the art of head dressing! And while many of the styles are used to identify a particular social status, ceremonial occasion, or country of origin, others are reflective of the unique tastes and fashion sense of the individual woman herself.

My general response to your inquiry regarding the type of fabri best suited for a novice such as yourself looking for a more simple African inspired headdress in a versatile solid color is to start out with two-yards of a 45" wide cotton gauze material in an easy to coordinate black or white. Cotton gauze is not only made from nature made and breathable fibers, but it is also lightweight and carries a slight stretch to it that will allow for easy manipulation of the fabric as well as a comfortable fit throughout the day. The recommended 2 yards will offer you some versatility in the height or style of your headdress as you discover the ideal look to complete any formal or informal ensemble. The use of traditional African printed cotton fabric also carries much appeal, especially to those who like patterns and vibrant colors. Though slightly less pliable than gauze, African printed cottons can add just the right touch to any outfit.

cotton gauze fabric

african fabric

novelty cotton fabric

Posts by J&O Fabric Store

Labels: african-dress, african-fabric, african-headress, ask-netfah, gele, head-wrap, Headwrap, novelty-cotton-fabric

Gele: The Art of Wrapping

Often times I am stopped and asked about the 'hat of fabric' on my head. To the children, it is something of amusement....spawning giggles and curiosity. To the adults, it is often an interesting accessory....creating a fascination towards not only its symbolism, but to its technique as well.

This 'hat of fabric', as it is often referred to, actually has a name. It is called a gele. The word stems from the Yoruba people of West Africa and it is not actually a hat, but a coil of fabric wrapped on top of ones head in a designed fashion. In many African countries, this piece of attire is symbolic of several things. For starters, it is worn only by women . Secondly, it serves to identify anything from her family bloodline to her social, cultural and/or marital status.

The technique for wrapping the gele varies depending on the purpose. Often times if the woman is attending a specific affair or ceremonial event, the style, color & print will play an important part.

To wrap your own head only a few steps are needed.

Step 1 Select about 2 yards of fabric . Any color or print that appeals to you will do. I suggest you use a light-weight fabric that does not have a slippery feel to it. This will allow your hair to breathe, and the gele to stay comfortable and in place on your head. The piece should be rectangular and anything less than 2 yards might prove difficult to utilize, as this covering is formed by wrapping and requires length to do so. If you want to have more options in your style of wrap, use more fabric...but keep in mind that your gele may be heavier as well.

Step 2 Wrap your head starting from one end of the material, leaving the bulk of it in the hand that will carry it around. Hold it at the base of your neck and cross over it with the remaining fabric creating an overlay. This will hold the gele in place. Wrap the rest of the fabric around your head and tuck the end into the folds of the fabric to secure. Shape the formed layers as you wish. For a tight fit, once you complete your first rotation, continue to secure the fabric around your head as you go. For a looser style, be more carefree in your wrapping.

Step 3 Once your wrap is complete, trust yourself. You look beautiful!