I attended a Nigerian wedding yesterday. It would fall under the category of "platinum wedding" and I can't begin to imagine how much money they spent on it. There were so many events and it's still going on actually. My friend was there since tuesday and she told me of the many dinners and dances and while there yesterday, I attended two seperate events. In the afternoon there was a ladies luncheon with traditional musicians performing. There was some dancing and everyone got a goody bag with a towellete, a foil container with snacks, potpourri with a little perfume bottle and some napkins. The dinner was invitation only and since only my mom had gotten an invitation, I didn't expect to attend. But my aunt got me an invite. Not expecting to attend, I didnt have anything extra to wear, but luckily I had just collected a few more dresses from my collection before the trip so I wore the yellow sari dress. I'd gotten the fabric in dubai and I think of all the fabric I bought that one just might be the most striking and the most beautiful.
I know you're wondering where the pictures are at. I'm sorry I don't have any. I don't like travelling with my bulky camera and I don't have a click and shoot yet, sorry. But as soon as the bride gets her pics together, I'll post some.
The dinner was mixed although the guys were few and sat on one side while the ladies were everywhere else. There was a stage with two high chairs for the bride and groom. And there's a custom called "Ashobe" or "Ashoke" or "Anko" depending on where you're from and it's where all the brides friends and family wear the same clothes. I'm not a big fan as I love to see different colors and styles on people. But the color they chose a blue lace with yellow trim was beautiful and all the women had sewn theirs differently so there was enough variety. They then wore a "Gwaggoro" on their heads which is a very staticy and tough scarf that's shaped into a type of hat that you put on your head. It's what these ladies are wearing in the picture. Except the one people wore at the wedding was a goldish, yellowish, green.
They had goody bags at the second event as well, these ones had another hand made bag which was green with blue accents. And inside were pashmina scarves, ceramic plates, and ceramic perfume burners, tealights, and cups. Some people got cutting boards, others got little plastic baskets and others got huge hand weaved baskets with lids. I don't even remember some of the things. In the morning we got another goody bag this one was like the luis vuitton bag everyone has except white and blue. There was also a pashmina shawl and an under cap.
There was a Governer's wife and a Deputy Governer's wife in attendance from different states. I can only imagine what tonight's dinner (which I'm not attending) will be like. While the whole wedding has been a feast for the eyes, I'm glad that unlike my friend I didn't have to attend all the events. And glad that I'm not one of the family members during this week when they have to deal with all the guests and all the chaos that ensues during weddings. I wish the newly weds best of luck. But am more determined than ever to have a one day wedding!!
Although these aren't my pics, they'll give you an idea of what the wedding looked like.
A Nigerian Wedding
Kimono Simple
As most everyone knows, when it comes to clothes, bells and whistles don't impress me. I'm more a fan of fabric and color and texture. Other than that, I prefer simple and understated. I get sick and tired of Abayas with so much embroidery on them, or dresses with huge bows, and tonnes of buttons and beading. So for me this Kimono being very simple, scores high points.
Designer: Unknown
Setrms Futuristic White
Setrms is all about sharp, professional attire. This white futuristic jacket is no exception. It's definitely not for the voluptuous woman. But for ladies who've got the figure for it, this jacket is rocking!! So go ahead and channel your inner rock star.
Designer: Setrms
Tekay Peach Gold
TeKay Designs does it again. Here's an adorable two piece with flare and style. As if the color itself wasn't pretty enough, the design adds some more flavour. I'm not even sure what color the outfit is, but I love it!
Designer: TeKay Designs
The Little "Red Dress"
As an opposite to the innocent Armine outfit, here's a slightly naughty Japanese Kimono. I really adore Kimono's though i've never owned one, or even worn one. I wonder about the bulk it has in the back, but adore the simplicity and combination of colors. What makes me like this one especially is the photograph. A red Kimono on a orange background and offcourse the expression on the model's face give it such a whimsical and slightly mischevious feel. Everyone feels a little naughty sometimes. I like the idea of this dress being the "Red Dress" the one that stands out but also covers up.
Designer: Unknown
I'm Baaaaaaaaaaaack!!
Sorry I've been MIA but unfortunately my life keeps getting busier. I'm soooooooo excited about my collection though. Another four pieces are complete, I hope to have pictures up in February. I'm travelling tomorrow, so I'm making 6 posts today. So insha'Allah, I'll see you when I get back!! Stay tuned...
Armine Blues
I love this Armine scarf. It's baby blue and the designs in it are very lighthearted. Paired with this white blouse it's a perfect "innocent" look. For days when you want to look demure and innocent, baby blue and white are your best friend.
Designer: Armine
Arabian Nites a Treat
Some of the abayas and jilbabs from British store Arabian Nites are an absolute treat. I especially adore this purple number with silver trim and coordinating hijab. What I love about this outfit is it's simplicity. This is the type of dress i can see all types of women wearing regardless of religious beliefs.
Designer: Arabian Nites
Amina Al Jassim Lilac Dream
Islamic Fashion Designer Amina Al Jassim sure knows how to create regal works of art. Her choice of fabric, the cuts, the detail all combine in exquisite harmony to produce clothes fit for royalty. The soft lilac adds a gentle femininity to the outfit. And the deep magenta robe adds richness and texture. The drawstring purse is a cute addition and perfect accessory. Now if I only had a ball to attend, or a prom, or a coming out party (j/k) I'd be all set.
Designer: Amina Al Jassim
Happy New Year!!
I hope everyone has a wonderful, productive, beautiful, energetic, healthy, inspiring, prosperous and fantastic New Year!!!
My biggest resolution for this year is to do more. I want to get better at html coding & css style sheets. I want to finish my collection and get it out there. I want to do more volunteer work. I want to inspire people this year and help them build their dreams. I want to get better at staying in touch, perhaps even go back to letter writing.
I already helped my mom this past week get started on her baking business. 3 more pieces from my collection are complete and I already have an order to make one custom piece. I have a few web design projects lined up. So already I'm on my way to completing my resolution to do more. What're some of your New Years Resolutions?
May all your resolutions come true!
