Ankara Fabric

In Attire
Relationship: Im/migrant
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 In Nigeria our clothing is made out of a cotton material called Ankara. It is common to go to the store and buy a long piece of this material and then bring it to a tailor to make it into the design of your choosing. As you can see in the picture this is what a typical Nigerian dress that is made from such material looks like. The material is light and is covered in patterns, which is a common custom. This material has different styles and patterns that are used in making every day wear, party wear, and even wedding attire. At a wedding the bride and groom families wear the same pattern so you can tell which side of the family you are from. It gives us a sense of community and solidarity. What I like the most about this material is the way it comes in many styles so you can either stand out or blend in. Every time I wear such traditional clothing it reminds me of my culture and wear I came from. 
 

Place(s): Nigeria
Year: 2011

– Demi

Relationship:  Im/migrant Im/migrant