Calabar Brides In Their Dynamic wares.
The Calabar bride is about the most distinctive of brides from all the ethnic groups in Nigeria; with her elaborate, colorful attire, she can never be mistaken for another. Although “Calabar” is usually understood to refer to the Efik ethnic group (the largest in the region), in this article it encompasses other ethnic groups in the area that share similar culture and attire; Bekwarra, Ejagham, Ibibio, Anaang and so on.
The Calabar bride may wear one of two outfits, or both (one after the other). The first is the 'Ofod Ukod Anwang' which showcases her as a desirable young maiden. It is made up of a knee length skirt, a blouse that usually covers only the bust and is made very fancy with lots of colourful beads, body paint and ornaments around her arms and legs called 'Ekpa ku kwa'.
The second is the 'Onyonyo'; a regal, flowing gown, also adorned with coral beads.
Most spectacular is the Calabar bride’s unique hairdo. Her hair is woven in elaborate patterns flowing down her back, and decorated with lots of brass hair pins/combs, giving her the appearance of a crowned queen.
The adorned staff she carries is the final prop in her royal attire. Here are some beautiful pictures of Calabar brides serving style for days.
Ofod Ukod Anwang
The gold Onyonyo appears to be a popular choice, and no wonder. These brides are doing it so right- their hair adornments and dresses sparkle beautifully, and the coral beads against that gold
Feast your eyes on these brides! Move over Queen Victoria, they not here to play. Their red and gold Onyonyos, the matching staffs they carry with such poise- they are staking a claim and I believe it.
A close up of the typical elaborate hair ‘do of the Calabar bride.
Check out the cultural display from this Ikom bride, complete with body paint and layers on layers on layers of beads.
How unique! This bride opted for a different take on the Onyonyo, choosing a more form-fitting option. I love the arrangement of her hair pins too; just like a crown.
All that coral around her neck and shoulders I love it.
Yes girl! Adjust your crown and slay. Her white beads are so refreshing.
Green is gorgeous too. Three beautiful Efik brides in the colour of new beginnings.
Another Calabar bride with a skirt and blouse in place of the Onyonyo, and in this darling shade of blue no less.
I’ll leave you with enough culture to last you the rest of the year with this final picture of a bride from Okurike town in a maiden outfit, performing traditional dance. Deep.
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