Intricate, bold, and a true statement piece, the gele is an essential accessory in African fashion. Originally from Nigeria, the gele has grown in popularity throughout other African countries and even beyond. Worn at weddings, parties, and other social events, a well-tied gele can make you stand out from the crowd. If you’re eager to learn how to tie this beautiful headpiece yourself, follow these simple steps to master the art of gele tying.

What You’ll Need:

– A stiff Aso-Oke or Ankara fabric (between 60-70 inches long and 20-25 inches wide)

– A mirror

– Hairpins (optional)

Step 1: Fold the Gele

Take your fabric and fold a small section (about 1 inch) lengthwise along the edge that will rest against your forehead. This will help keep the edges neat as well as provide some padding and comfort once worn.

Step 2: Find the Center

Hold the folded end of the gele with one hand and use your other hand to find the center of the length. To make it easier to tie, keep holding this point once you have found it.

Step 3: Place on Your Head

Now it’s time to place the fabric on your head. Ensure that your hair is pulled back neatly, either in a bun or wrapped with a scarf. Position the center of the geleastiff right above your eyebrows and wrap it around your head tightly, bringing both ends forward.

Step 4: Cross Over

With both ends brought forward across your forehead, cross them over each other and switch hands. Make sure that each crossover is tight to maintain stability while tying your gele.

Step 5: Twist Away From Your Face

Take both ends of the gele and twist them away from your face in an upward and outward motion. This will create the distinctive fan-like shape that is synonymous with a beautifully tied gele.

Step 6: Tie a Knot

Once both ends have been twisted, bring them around to the back of your head, and tie them in a double knot underneath the original fabric layer at the nape of your neck. Tuck in any loose ends.

Step 7: Adjust and Neaten

Now that your gele is secure, use both hands to adjust and neaten the fabric on top of your head. Arrange it into a pleated style for added flair, or gently pull each layer apart to create a more dramatic fan effect. You can also use hairpins if needed to keep the pleats in place.

Step 8: Admire Your Work

Take a moment to admire your beautifully tied gele in the mirror! Feel free to make any final adjustments until it’s shaped to your liking.

And there you have it! With practice, tying a gele will become second nature, allowing you to quickly add some African flair to any outfit. The most important thing is to experiment with different styles and techniques to find what works best for you. Enjoy showcasing this beautiful accessory at your next event!