Who says Yoruba don’t wear skirts?
The fabric of a culture is often stitched together through its clothing, expressing history, identity, and creativity. In Yoruba culture, the evolution of traditional attire, particularly the transition from Yeri (the unisex wrapper) to the modern bounded wrapper now called the Yeri-Apagun, offers a perfect lens through which we can explore our rich heritage.
A new era of royalty: The transformation of Yoruba wrappers
That Yorubas have tied wrappers for centuries is not in contention, due to the sometimes-troubling unravelling or incessant falling of the Yoruba wrappers, our tailors started to creatively modify the wrappers for ease of wear and management, especially among royalty and the rich. This innovation birthed the early skirts (Bounded wrappers), enabling ease of movement and versatility in style while retaining a regal aesthetic.
The modern Yeri-Apagun, created by Egbaliganza, embodies this spirit of innovation—it’s more regal, unapologetic, and elegantly pleated, allowing expression in any fabric. This garment is a testament to our ability to blend tradition with modernity while embracing our royal lineage.
Debunking myths: A legacy to embrace
First things first: the notion that skirts are solely an Itsekiri endeavour is steeped in misunderstanding. To claim exclusivity overlooks the rich interconnections and historical narratives of numerous cultures in Nigeria. The Yoruba people have worn skirts for centuries, and their story is full of twists and turns.
The Yeri, traditionally tied by revered Yoruba leaders, has symbolized not just functionality but also elegance. Can you imagine the Ooni of Ife, the spiritual leader of the Yoruba people, donning trousers? Not likely! Nor should we conjure images of Sango, the legendary god of thunder, sporting anything other than his regal wrappers. Ancient Oonis embraced the Yeri, affirming its status as more than just clothing—it’s a cultural emblem.
In fact, while the Yoruba seemed to use less of the ‘bounded Yeri’ (the early skirts) as time went by, leaving it more to the affluent and those who were historically connected to export it. This style was adopted and brought to more life by the Binins and later by the Itsekiris. This evolution speaks volumes about how cultural expressions can transcend borders and be reinterpreted. The Yeri-Apagun represents the Yoruba re-incarnation of the bounded Yeri, a revival of our cultural pride and creativity. “The Yeri-Apagun symbolises a vibrant return to our roots, an embracing of our identity through the evolution of our style.”
From Yeri to Yeri-Apagun: A historical evolution
So, how did the simple Yeri evolve into the modern Yeri-Apagun? The transition reflects the adaptability and dynamic nature of Yoruba culture. Traditionally, the Yeri served as a versatile garment—worn by both men and women. It was this functionality that set the stage for innovation.
As time flowed like the rivers of Nigeria, the Yeri evolved. The introduction of new styles, patterns, and designs led to what we now recognise as the bounded wrapper or Yeri-Apagun. This garment is not just an item of clothing; it is a canvas of tradition, adorned with creativity and passion. By blending styles and adding modern flair, this innovation has revitalized our heritage while ensuring its relevance in today’s fashion landscape.
Cultural richness: More than just threads
Textile traditions within Yoruba culture are narratives waiting to be unravelled. Consider the story of Oba Ademola visiting the Queen of England, proudly adorned in a regal velvet garment gifted by the Swiss government. This isn’t merely a sartorial choice; it’s a statement of cultural pride and the prowess of Yoruba artistry on an international stage.
Today, we see this narrative continue with the Ijaye Egba (Version 3) tops, paired with the Yeri-Apagun, a combination that symbolizes cultural celebration and pride. They remind us that Yoruba culture is not monolithic but vibrant and diverse. Isn’t it time we adorned ourselves with this richness instead of constraining it to outdated stereotypes?
Embracing innovation: A proud legacy
As we embark on this journey of cultural reclamation and innovation, the question looms: “What will we create in our time?” Our ancestors innovated, creating beauty from simplicity. It is now our turn to follow suit. The spirit of invention and creativity that characterised the Yoruba community in ages past is alive and thriving today.
In a few years to come, no one will ever say that “Yorubas don’t wear skirts” again. As we proudly wear our Yeri-Apagun in Egbaland/Yorubaland, the spirit of innovation will echo through the ages. This isn’t merely about aesthetics; it’s about empowerment and transformation, reclaiming our narrative, and ensuring our cultural expressions flourish.
United by legacy and pride
Let us stitch together our threads of history and innovation, embracing our multifaceted heritage to honour the legacy of those who came before us. By celebrating the Yeri-Apagun and all it represents, we can secure that the vibrant essence of Yoruba culture continues to inspire generations to come.
To my fellow Egbas and Yoruba, let’s stride forward in our Yeri-Apagun, a symbol of our identity, creativity, and resilience. Let’s honour our past, embrace the present, and shape our future, thread by thread.
Yours in ‘Heritage Pride’
.Labode, Osi Apagun of Egbaland (visioner of Ègbáliganza} and CEO of CashToken Africa
