The Renaissance Of The Adire Fabric

I wonder how many of us are going into our mothers, grandmothers, and even great grandmothers, ”bottom box” to look for those old oh!! sorry did I say old, I meant ”vintage” Adire fabrics. What was old has gotten a unique rebirth and is new again

Adire a Yoruba word meaning to tie and dye (adi ) to tie (re) to dye is a fabric that existed before Nigeria was colonized. The fabric was most popular in cities like Abeokuta, Ibadan and Osogo were it was mostly produced. Adire has a very rich heritage amongst the Yoruba ancient kingdoms and was used as part of the traditional and religious lifestyle

The Adire fabric that many Africans, saw as cheap and not worthy to be seen out in especially in the cities, is now the in thing to be found rocking. The detailed intricate, elaborate patterns on colorful fabrics, when well-tailored can be created into styles that have brought the once-forgotten fabric back to the limelight making outfits sown in the Adire fabrics, one of the latest fashion trends amongst local and international designers

The fabric’s uniqueness is that it can be customized as opposed to other fabrics that are sometimes mass-produced. The uniqueness of Adire is such that no two fabric pieces are exactly alike, unless they are digitally printed. The original fabric

depending on how it absolves the resist indigo dye and cassava paste, can produce the Adire fabric to look shades darker or lighter, some colors may appear more vibrant or vivid than other colors, while some of the fabric will not take the dye at all.

One woman making sure the Adire heritage does not fade away or is forgotten is Chief ( Mrs) Nike Davies-Okundaye Artist/ Designer. Her aim is to pass on the knowledge of the production of Adire from one generation to the other. Mrs. Davies-Okundaye has been a pioneer in the production of the Adire fabric for over fifty years, a craft she learnt from her great grandmother, she has been gracious to teach and pass on the skills to numerous people free of charge in her various workshops in Nigeria, were she is affectionally known as Mama Nike. You can learn more about Mama Nike’s wonderful work on her website. nikeartfoundation.com

Today one can wear the Adire fabric in styles unlocking the African identity that expresses one's artistic nature. Modern styles are being interpreted by up and coming young designers. Designers with creative imaginations are translating the Adire fabric into fashions that are worthy of world recognition and acclaim. The Adire fabric can be sewn into dresses, skirts shirts, jackets, hats, handbags, and all forms of accessories for women and men that are worn with pride to showcase the African culture and rich heritage.