One thing I live for is comebacks; it’s always nice to see something awesome that has been in the shadows come back to life in colourful ways. But the Iro and Buba never actually disappear; it’s always in the corner, waiting to make a renaissance. Around 2012, it came back as ‘Oleku’, but truthfully, our mothers have never stopped wearing them. These days, young ladies are catching on, and some are even wearing their mothers’ iro and buba.

We have been and still are in the corset era in all its variations; cinched waists, beadings, and elaborate sleeves are the order of the day, and no doubt, they are stunning. However, these days, there is a quiet defiance against this trend, with people craving the iro and buba.

It’s a traditional Yoruba clothing; the words iro and buba mean wrapper and blouse. The cultural aspect adds to its enduring quality. It is a part of our identity, which is why at festivals like the Ojude Oba, the corset takes a back seat, and iros and bubas come out in their glory.

This style, though simple, makes the wearer appear larger than they actually are since it is mostly oversized and thus gives an air of magnanimity. A woman in an iro and buba in her rich aunty’s era, and has this aura that can only be gotten from age, experience, and luxury.

But what really makes this trend almost eternal is that it brings the focus to the person; the outfit isn’t overpowering, nor is it silent, it doesn’t wear the person, but rather the woman is the focal point. Because of this, observers can easily appreciate details like the beauty of the lace, the richness of the gold jewelry, the immaculate gele, and the beautiful clutch. Most importantly, it is comfortable and suitable for the Nigerian weather.

Expect to see more and more ladies wearing it in the time to come because the iro and buba renaissance is here.