Gele — the iconic Nigerian headwrap — continues to reign supreme in the fashion scene, particularly at weddings, owambes, and other glamorous occasions. What makes gele truly spectacular is not just how it's styled but the elegance and power it gives the wearer. From classic layers to high-volume structured designs, gele styles are becoming more artful and expressive than ever before. In this post, we’ll explore the most trending gele styles and the materials used to achieve these stunning looks, using the photo collage above as your style guide.
Also see Stunning styles for wedding reception and other occasions.
Latest and Popular Gele Styles
1. Structured Pleated Gele
The first image showcases structured pleated gele, perfect for adding volume and presence. This style is achieved using aso-oke, a traditional Yoruba woven fabric known for its stiffness and ease of molding. Paired with subtle jewelry, it’s ideal for traditional weddings and high-end events.
2. Avant-Garde Sculpted Gele
This golden sculpted gele with a modern, origami-inspired finish. This unique gele style typically uses damask or jacquard, materials that hold shape well and offer rich texture. It’s an excellent choice for fashion-forward celebrants who want a standout look.
Also see Gorgeous Ankara Styles for Parties and Occasions
3. Glossy Infinity Gele.
In the third frame, we see a deep emerald green glossy gele, styled in a rounded and continuous loop — a variation of the infinity gele. This design is often crafted with segogele or shimmery satin aso-oke, which offers both structure and sheen, making it a head-turner.
4. Multicolor Layered Gele.
This Gele style reveals a bold and colorful multilayered gele in shades of pink, purple, and gold. This vibrant piece is made from aso-oke or custom-dyed silk aso-oke. It’s an ideal pick for bridesmaids or guests looking to coordinate with a theme without sacrificing personal flair.
5. Iridescent Royal Gele.
This is a rich gele shines with iridescent tones and smooth folds. This is a classic segogele or damask style, known for being lightweight yet firm, allowing intricate pleating and soft finishing. The elegance in simplicity here speaks volumes.
Also see Amazing Royal Blue Colour Aso-ebi and Owambe Styles, Volume 2.0
6. Classic White Fan Geles
Fan-style gele is making a major comeback. Clean, regal, and powerful, this look is most often styled using paper aso-oke or silk cotton, offering the right balance of rigidity and elegance. It's perfect for brides, especially for traditional engagement ceremonies.
Tips for Slaying Your Gele:
- Work with a professional gele stylist for events that matter.
- Always match your gele material with your outfit’s fabric and color palette.
- Secure your gele with pins and hairspray for long-lasting hold.
- Consider embellished gele for added sparkle (stones, pearls, sequins).
Gele is more than just a head wrap — it's a statement of culture, confidence, and creativity. Whether you go bold with sculpted designs or stay elegant with classic pleats, the right gele can elevate your entire look. Use the images above as your style guide and experiment with textures and colors that resonate with your personality.