In the early 20s, like other sections of human life after the great boom in the industrialization Industry, clothing take a dramatic turn both in usage, artistic expression, and versatility owing to readily available materials and technological innovations that brought into the light, ingenious ways of synthesizing fabrics that are both new and upgrades to existing ones.
Aso Ofi, made from processed cotton wool is a locally made fabric that is in common usage and circulation majorly before Nigeria becomes a colony of the western world.
Known for their unique texture and limited color effect. The styles available with these fabrics are limited in expression and style which explains the great enthusiasm with which they were progressively dumped for the more breathable fabrics with less cohesiveness in texture.
With innovation comes evolution and adaptation in culture and ways of doing things that reflect in how variations as occurred in many other fabrics to accumulate growing needs, offer better comfort and evolved towards trends and societal demand.
Alas! Aso Ofi is a structurally rigid fabric that stood proud in uniqueness under the dramatic dimming light of extinction, unfazed, unperturbed, and ancient in vestige; carving a niche for itself under the ceremonial regalia of the Yoruba monarch.
No doubt, Aso Ofi is a bridge fitted with historical light linking the Yoruba’s past with the present day with little to no dent; a feat worthy of national ovation to echo beyond the walls of Museums and history apartheid classrooms.
