Head ties are a traditional and significant garment worn by people across many African countries. These beautiful and versatile pieces of fabric hold deep cultural meaning and are often used to express identity, status, and personal style.
However, given the vast diversity of the African continent and the many ethnic groups that call it home, the production, design, and style of wearing head ties can vary widely from one region to another. In some cases, even within the same country, different regions may have unique ways of crafting and styling head ties.
One such head tie that holds special significance is the “Gele,” primarily worn by women in Nigeria, a country in West Africa. The Gele is not just a piece of fabric; it’s a cultural symbol that can be styled in various intricate and elegant ways, each carrying its meaning.
Ahead, we’ll explore the cultural importance of Gele headtie, and its various styles, and provide you with a Gele headwrap styling guide on different ways you can tie them to achieve stunning and traditional looks.
What is Gele and When is it Worn?
Gele is a traditional head tie predominantly worn by women in Nigeria, a country in West Africa. Unlike the head ties found in other African countries such as Ghana, Gele is often large, elaborate, and intricately designed, making it more commonly associated with special occasions and ceremonial events rather than everyday use. However, some women also choose to wear smaller, simpler versions of Gele for daily activities, bringing style to their everyday attire.
The style and formality of a Gele can vary depending on the occasion. For ceremonial events, such as weddings or religious gatherings, Gele is typically styled to cover both the ears and the hair, creating a regal and majestic look that often rises high above the head. On the other hand, everyday Gele tends to be more modest in size, covering only the hair and allowing for more casual and practical wear.
Gele headwear comes in a wide variety of colors, patterns, and styles, each with its own significance or cultural meaning. The color and design of Gele headwear can symbolize different things, from the wearer’s social status to the occasion they are attending. This makes Gele not just a fashion accessory, but an important part of social and cultural expression in Nigeria.
How is Gele Worn?
Gele headtie usually starts as a flat piece of fabric, which is then artfully wrapped around the head and hair of the wearer and secured into place. When worn for ceremonial purposes, Gele is typically styled to be quite large, creating a towering and eye-catching appearance. The versatility of Gele is one of its most appealing features; it can be styled in numerous ways to suit personal preferences or the specific requirements of an occasion.
Tying a Gele can seem intimidating, especially for beginners, but with the right approach and a bit of practice, anyone can master this Nigerian traditional wearable art. Ahead, we’ll provide a detailed step-by-step guide on how to tie various Nigerian Gele styles, each with its unique flair and cultural significance.
Popular Gele Styles
A Gele can be tied in various ways depending on personal preference, the occasion, and the specific cultural or regional traditions. While the process of tying a Gele can seem complex, it is essentially a form of art that can be mastered with time and patience. The Gele can also be styled in countless ways to suit different face shapes, outfits, and personal styles.
Round Gele:
This style is characterized by its perfectly round shape that sits elegantly on top of the head. It’s a classic choice for formal occasions and gives a regal appearance. The round Gele requires careful folding and pleating to achieve its smooth, circular form.
Pleated Gele:
Known for its structured appearance, the pleated Gele features a series of pleats that run from the front to the back of the head. This style is highly popular for its neat, polished look, which adds a sophisticated touch to any outfit.
Infinity Gele:
The Infinity Gele is a modern twist on traditional styles. It is tied in a figure-eight shape, creating a unique and eye-catching design. This style is particularly popular among younger women looking to make a fashion statement while still honoring tradition.
Rose Gele:
As the name suggests, the Rose Gele style is tied to resemble a rose flower. It’s a highly intricate design that showcases the skill of the wearer. The Rose Gele is perfect for brides or anyone looking to stand out at a special event.
How to Tie a Round Gele
Ready to master the art of tying a round Gele? Grab your Gele and follow these simple steps to become a pro!
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Fold the Edge:
Start by folding the edge of the Gele inward. This creates a smooth base at the front, which will sit on the crown of your head.
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Wrap Around the Head:
Place the folded Gele at the back of your head and wrap it around to the front, towards your forehead. Make sure the ends are even—this is crucial for a balanced look.
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Secure One Side:
Take one side of the Gele (for example, the left side) and wrap it around your head towards the right, all the way to your left ear. Hold it securely with your hands. At this point, the left side will be shorter than the right.
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Cross Over:
Take the longer right side and cross it over the left side of the Gele. Wrap it around the back of your head, securing it with your hands.
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Create Layers:
Begin arranging the Gele around your head in layers. Start by squeezing the ends to form a fan shape from the center, ensuring there’s enough fabric left at the end for a secure grip.
- Repeat on the Other Side:
Follow the same process on the opposite side of your head, creating symmetrical layers.
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Secure the Gele:
Tie both ends into a knot twice to secure the Gele in place. Tuck in any loose ends neatly.
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Shape the Layers:
There will be two layers on top of the Gele. Start by arranging the back layer first, making sure the highest point is centered.
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Pleat the Front:
Now, work on the front layers. Use your fingers to create defined lines and pleats, forming a stepped pattern at the front of the Gele.
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Adjust:
Gently push the Gele back from your face to give a slight lift, but be careful not to push too far to avoid it falling off. Make sure your ears stay tucked in.
Finally, keep adjusting the Gele until you achieve your desired look.
How to Tie a Pleated Gele
Tying a pleated gele, a traditional Nigerian headwrap, is a beautiful art form that requires patience and practice. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you achieve those crisp pleats:
- Prepare the Fabric:
Start with a rectangular piece of gele fabric. Ensure the gele is wide enough to cover your head and long enough to wrap around.
- Position the Gele:
Place the gele at the back of your head, with the ends hanging equally on both sides. Bring the ends forward towards your forehead.
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Start Pleating:
Begin at one side, typically the right side, and start folding the fabric into small pleats. Use your thumb and fingers to create each fold.
Ensure each pleat is about 1-2 inches wide. Work your way across the Gele, creating pleats until you reach the other side. As you pleat, gently pull the Gele backward to secure the pleats and make them firm.
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Wrap and Secure:
Once you have pleated the entire length, cross one side of the Gele over the other at the front of your head. Bring one end of the Gele around to the back of your head, tucking it securely.
Take the second end and wrap it in the opposite direction, tucking it at the back as well. Ensure the pleats are aligned and smooth out any wrinkles.
- Adjust the Pleats:
Adjust the pleats for evenness, making sure they fan out neatly across your forehead. You can use pins to secure the pleats and keep the Gele in place.
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Finish and Fluff:
Once everything is secured, gently pull the pleats forward to create a fuller look. Adjust the Gele around your face to frame it perfectly. Make any final tweaks to the pleats, ensuring they are neat and symmetrical.
Pro Tips:
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Practice makes perfect: The more you practice, the better your pleats will look.
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Use a mirror: It helps to see how the pleats are forming and adjust as needed.
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Experiment: Try different pleat sizes and positions to find what suits your style best.
How to Tie an Infinity Gele
Tying an Infinity Gele is a popular technique that creates a stylish, layered look perfect for special occasions. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you achieve the Infinity Gele style:
- Prepare the Gele:
Start by folding the Gele fabric in half lengthwise. This will help you create a neat base and ensure the layers are even.
- Position the Gele:
Place the Gele on your head, with one side longer than the other. The longer side will be used to create the layers. Ensure the fabric sits comfortably above your ears.
- Wrap the Base:
Take the shorter end of the Gele and wrap it around the back of your head. Secure it tightly to form the base layer, and bring it to the front on the opposite side of where you started.
- Create the First Layer:
With the longer side of the Gele, start wrapping it around your head, layering it over the base. As you wrap, ensure each layer slightly overlaps the previous one to create the Infinity effect.
- Build the Infinity Loops:
Continue wrapping and folding the longer end of the Gele around your head, adjusting the folds to form neat layers. The key is to create a continuous, spiral-like effect, which gives the Gele its “infinity” look.
- Adjust and Tuck:
Once you have wrapped the Gele fully around your head, tuck the remaining fabric under the layers to secure it. Use pins if necessary to hold the Gele in place and prevent it from slipping.
- Final Adjustments:
Stand in front of a mirror and adjust the Gele, ensuring the layers are even and the style is symmetrical. Ensure it is tight enough to stay in place but not so tight that it’s uncomfortable.
- Finishing Touches:
Smooth out any wrinkles or uneven folds, and if desired, you can add a brooch or decorative pin to accentuate the style.
Pro Tips:
- Practice: Tying a perfect Infinity Gele takes practice. Don’t get discouraged if it doesn’t come out perfect on the first try.
- Choose the Right Fabric: Stiff fabrics like Aso Oke or Ankara work well because they hold their shape better.
- Seek Help: If you’re struggling, it can help to have someone assist you, especially when tucking and adjusting the layers.
How to Tie a Rose Gele
Tying a Rose Gele involves creating a headwrap that resembles the shape of a rose. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you achieve this elegant and eye-catching style:
- Prepare Your Gele:
Start with a Gele of your choice, preferably a fabric like Aso Oke or Ankara. Ensure it’s long enough to create the rose shape.
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Create the Base:
Fold one end of the Gele to create a smooth edge. This folded end will serve as the base of your rose.
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Wrap the Gele:
Place the folded end at the back of your head and wrap the Gele around to the front. Position it so that the ends are even on both sides.
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Form the Rose Petals:
Take one end of the Gele (e.g., the right side) and start creating loops or folds. Hold the base of each loop tightly as you form petal shapes. Aim to make these loops gradually larger as you move away from the center.
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Secure the Petals:
Continue forming the loops around the base, overlapping them slightly to achieve a layered petal effect. Once you have the desired number of petals, pin or tuck the fabric in place at the base.
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Arrange the Rose:
Adjust the loops to shape the rose, ensuring it’s even and well-structured. Use pins or clips if necessary to hold the shape while you work.
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Finish the Look:
Tuck in any loose ends or excess fabric to secure the Gele. Make sure the rose shape is neatly arranged and positioned in the desired place on your head.
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Check the Fit:
Ensure the Gele is comfortable and securely in place. Adjust as needed to ensure it doesn’t slide or shift.
Pro Tips:
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Practice: If you’re new to tying Gele, practice a few times to get comfortable with the folds and loops.
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Use Pins: Don’t hesitate to use hairpins or clips to secure the shape as you work on it.
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Choose the Right Fabric: Stiffer fabrics like Aso Oke hold their shape better and are ideal for creating a structured rose.
How to Tie a Turban Gele
The Turban Gele is a chic and easy-to-tie headwrap that’s perfect for daily wear. It adds a touch of elegance and style with minimal effort. Follow these straightforward steps to achieve a stylish Turban Gele look:
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Choose Your Fabric:
Start by selecting a Gele fabric that complements both your outfit and your skin tone. Common choices include Aso-Oke, Ankara, and Damask. The type of fabric you pick will affect how your Gele looks and feels.
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Wrap the Fabric Around Your Head:
Instead of folding the fabric, begin by wrapping it around your head. Ensure that the fabric covers your entire head evenly.
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Twist and Tuck:
Take the ends of the fabric and twist them together. Once twisted, tuck the ends securely into place. This helps to keep the fabric neatly arranged and adds structure to the style.
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Adjust for Comfort:
Smooth out the front of the Gele to ensure it sits comfortably on your forehead. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure it fits well and looks polished.
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Secure the Gele:
Use bobby pins to keep the Gele firmly in place. This will help prevent it from shifting throughout the day. Adjust as needed to make sure the Gele stays comfortable and secure on your head.
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Add Accessories:
For a finishing touch, consider adding decorative brooches or pins. This can enhance the elegance of your Turban Gele and make it stand out even more.
Photo: Instagram/abydouz_gele
