How To

How to Select African Fabric for Wedding Garb

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(5 Ratings)

Selecting colorful African fabric for your wedding garb can help you create a dramatic and beautiful event.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Fabric Samples
  • Sewing Patterns
  • Wedding Invitations
  • Fabric Chalks
  • Fabrics
  • Wedding Bands
  • Wedding Licenses
  1. Step 1

    Match the color and print of the bride's and groom's outfits, although you may wear different styles.

  2. Step 2

    Select clothing for bridesmaids and groomsmen that complements your look.

  3. Step 3

    Review all of your options. There are numerous textures, patterns and designs from which to choose.

  4. Step 4

    Allow plenty of time to have clothing made to your specifications by a seamstress if you can't find ready-made styles you like.

  5. Step 5

    Visit ethnic clothing shops and fabric stores for ideas.

  6. Step 6

    Consider using brocade, which is heavy cotton fabric with an interwoven design of objects such as stars, moons, flowers or other symbols.

  7. Step 7

    Search for waxed fabric, which can be identified by its characteristic sheen on one side of the cloth. This protects the color and pattern.

  8. Step 8

    Consider ashoke, or aso oke fabric, which is an expensive Nigerian heavy cotton blend. It often has eyelet holes with brightly colored embroidery.

  9. Step 9

    Compare traditional ashoke, which has a flat finish, to the newer version, which has a metallic sheen, to see which you prefer.

  10. Step 10

    Check the fabric's selvage, or manufactured edge, for clues to its quality. If it has seven or more stars, this is a sign it is well-made. In addition, quality waxed fabric has a white selvage.

  11. Step 11

    Consider Kente cloth, which is a very popular West African fabric. The fabric has a host of designs and symbols that have a wide range of meanings.

  12. Step 12

    Look for symbols that interest you. For instance, Adinkra symbols have different spiritual meanings, such as unity and strength.

Tips & Warnings
  • African fabric often comes from European countries. England and Switzerland are known for their high quality waxed fabric.
  • African fabrics need special care. Find a dry cleaner that is equipped to work with them.
  • Repeat a few symbols from your wedding fabric in your rings and invitations to carry the theme through.

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