Aso-oke: Getting best value for money

ASO-OKE, when it comes to the South-West preference for style, is nearly as old as time. In recent times, they have been upgraded in terms of creativity, design and styling, and now transcend cultural backgrounds as the fashion go-to, when it comes to choosing fabric for many traditional wedding outfits.

Beyond the usual weaved magic that the aso-oke presents, many designers have taken it a step further and now add stones, pearls, patterns, among others, in the effort to spice up the look. However, there is the issue of maintenance, as some seem at a loss on just how to get the best value for money when it comes to ensuring that aso-oke retains its shine for as long as possible.

Makeover spoke with two dealers in aso-oke, Alhaja Kifayat Abosede and Mr Ganiyu Alabi, who provided tips on general maintenance for aso-oke.

Washing

For best results, maintaining aso-oke is achieved with care. You don’t have to wash every time you wear it, and depending on the use when you wear, washing aso-oke can be done after two or three wears. However, for major events such as weddings, because of the stress the fabric is subjected to, which may cause dirt and sweat to get locked within the pores of the fabric, it can be washed after that single use. For other events where the use isn’t as heavy, washing after two or three uses works just fine.

As washing agent, Abosede advises the use of bar soap, as well as liquid soap. Alabi advises the use of liquid soap to ensure that the fabric lasts. On whether washing machine can be used, both dealers agree that it’s not a bad idea, depending on the person’s preference.

Drying

On how much sun-drying the it needs, both dealers advise letting it dry in the sun, but not for too long, to avoid fading. According to them, aso-oke can last for a minimum of three years, if the right maintenance tips are in place.