Ichafu is a common name for traditional head gear in Alaigbo, being the prime fashion accessory for igbo women for over a century and half. This article explores the history, origins, etymology and influence of Ichafu on modern day Nigerian fashion.
The History and Etymology of Ichafu
The origins of Ichafu starts with our contact with the Europeans. The word Ichafu is derived from the French word “chiffon” or “couvre-chef” which means headgear or scarf. . To show more emphasis on the fact that it is for the head, some regard it as “ịchafu isi”. But before then let’s look at what head gears were called in precolonial times, most people called it Ụnarị (or Ụnalị, Ụlarị, Ịlarị) depending on dialect , some dialects say aka-isi, okaraisi, ihe-isi .
The structure of Ichafu;
Ichafu is usually big, bold and not patterned to be even or straight. It’s mostly tied to sprout up like the tall raised feathers of a peacock. Which symbolizes the pride and prestige that Igbo women are well known for.
Occasions That Demand The Tying Of Ichafu
Most times igbo women tie ichafu for occasions like
Traditional weddings:
Igbo women tie ichafu for their igba nkwu ( which is the celebratory stage of the marriage process), where they get to dress their best, while the ichafu sits elegantly as a crown on their head.
Credit: Vintage Nigeria
Funerals:
Ichafu is also tied during burials as a fashion statement and sometimes in support for family of the deceased , representing their age group etc.
Title Taking:
Ichafu is a status symbol for titled women and those who would take up titles as well. This can be seen with ndi “odu” and ndi ekwe at events or at title takings
Materials used for Ichafu
Damask: a stiff shiny patterned fabric, is the most popular fabric. Goes with a variety of outfits , matches jewelries and elevates appearances.
Other materials include; George, Brocade, Ankara , Velvet and Lace. Sometimes beads are used for beautification and styling of the hair/head as opposed to using Ichafu.
The influence of ichafu on modern day fashion:
Ichafu has made a comeback in the Nigerian fashion scene , with its peculiar silhouette, bold and high standing pattern. From brides like akwaugo rocking it this year, to ciara walking down the runaway crowned with ichafu with Gozie Okeke’s akanchawa blasting in the background paying homage to origins of Ichafu . It shows that Ichafu has come here to stay and it would be here for a long time to come.
References:
- Chika, O. (2018). The Headtie – The Tie that Binds Us. Bellanaija.
- Maazị, O. O. (2023). Headtie or headgear in Igbo is called ịchafu, right?-X (formerly known as twitter)
- kingsgate (2023). Embrace the Culture: Explore the Elegance of Igbo Women’s Attire
