From Loom to Luxury: Transforming Aso-Oke into High-Value Fashion Accessories (Published)
Aso-oke is one of the most important traditional textiles of the Yoruba people, serving as a symbol of cultural identity, social status, and important life events. Over time, it has grown from a locally valued ceremonial fabric into a widely recognized representation of Yoruba heritage. The textile is traditionally produced using two weaving methods: the vertical broad loom, commonly operated by women, and the horizontal narrow-strip loom, typically used by men. Despite its cultural significance, Aso-oke production faces challenges such as fluctuating raw material costs, inconsistent thread quality, poor colourfastness, and irregular yarn supply, forcing many weavers to rely on whatever materials are available. Expanding the use of Aso-oke into high-value fashion accessories such as bags and footwear creates opportunities beyond traditional weaving, including design, finishing, quality control, marketing, and distribution. This diversification can improve artisans’ incomes, strengthen creative expression, and increase the global appeal and commercial value of this iconic Yoruba textile.
Keywords: Aso oke, Indigenous, acccessories, colourfastness, handwoven, loom