Let’s talk about Igbo Women and Two Wrappers

Today, we’ll be exploring the age-old question of why Igbo women tie two wrappers and how this fashion has evolved.

Legend has it that the practice of tying two wrappers dates back to ancient times when the Igbo people lived in a land filled with mischievous spirits. These spirits were known to snatch away women’s clothing, leaving them in the nude. So, in order to protect themselves, Igbo women started tying two wrappers, ensuring that even if one was taken, they would still have some clothing left.

As time went on, the tradition stuck, but it began to take on a new meaning. You see, Igbo women are known for their impressive dance moves, and they needed a way to showcase their skills. So, they started tying the second wrapper around their waist in a way that would emphasize their hip movements, making their dance even more captivating.

But that’s not all! The second wrapper also became a symbol of wealth and status. The more wrappers a woman tied, the wealthier she was perceived to be. It became a competition of sorts, with women trying to outdo each other by tying as many wrappers as they could.

However, this trend took a hilarious turn in the 90s, when a new fashion craze hit the streets. Igbo women began tying their wrappers in a way that made it look like they had three or four layers. This new style quickly caught on, and soon, women were tying so many wrappers that they could barely walk!

To make matters worse, some women started using heavy fabrics to tie their wrappers, which made it even more difficult to move around. It got to the point where they had to be carried around like queens, which defeated the purpose of the whole thing.

Thankfully, this trend eventually died down, and women returned to the classic two-wrapper style that had served them so well for centuries. Today, Igbo women continue to tie two wrappers, not just for practical reasons but also as a symbol of their rich cultural heritage.

Traditionally, Igbo women tie two wrappers as a form of modesty and cultural custom. The first wrapper is tied tightly around the waist to form a skirt, while the second wrapper is tied over the first one to create a more voluminous and flowing look.

The two-wrapper style is considered more appropriate for married women, as it provides additional coverage and modesty. Single women may only wear one wrapper or may tie their wrapper in a different style altogether.

In addition to the cultural significance, the two-wrapper style can also be practical. The additional layer of fabric can help to protect against the elements, particularly in cooler weather or during rainy seasons.

Overall, the tradition of tying two wrappers is an important aspect of Igbo culture, reflecting the values of modesty, practicality, and tradition.

In conclusion, the evolution of the two-wrapper trend is a testament to the creativity and humour of the Igbo people. From protecting themselves from mischievous spirits to showcasing their impressive dance moves to outdoing each other with layers upon layers of wrappers, the tradition has come a long way. So, the next time you see an Igbo woman tie two wrappers, remember that there’s a rich and hilarious history behind it.