What should a woman wear as a guest at a Nigerian wedding?

For a Nigerian wedding in the UK, guests usually dress in lively, festive colours. The most common choice is a traditional outfit: a wrapper (a wrapped skirt), a matching blouse, and a headwrap called a gele. You can also wear a modern dress made from Ankara or lace fabric, or a smart cocktail dress in a bold print or bright colour. The key is to be colourful and celebratory.

Avoid wearing white or cream, as these are traditionally reserved for the bride and sometimes the groom. Also, avoid all-black outfits unless the couple has specified a dress code. For the church or mosque ceremony, bring a shawl or jacket to cover your shoulders and arms, as many religious venues require this. For the reception, you can remove it.

If you are unsure about the dress code, ask the couple or a member of the bridal party. Some Nigerian weddings have a specific colour theme, so guests may be asked to wear certain shades. If not, any bright colour works well. Wear comfortable shoes, as you may be dancing for hours. Many guests also choose to wear their traditional attire from their own culture, which is always welcome. The most important thing is to dress with joy and respect.