Ugo Monye's Agbadas Are Redefining Traditional Menswear In Nigeria

An agbada can be sewn in fabric of many different colours, however the most popular colour that most Nigerian men opt for (all the goddamn time), is white. Complete with the aso oke cap, sharp loafers and a flashy watch, you’re right on the path to Yoruba demon status.

Years ago, traditional womenswear saw a shift in paradigm, with the reinvention of iro and buba, and now the men are catching up. Ugo Monye's agbadas have structured silhouettes that demand attention, with intricate embroidery which shows off the designer's creativity.

Following their LFDW 2017 showcase, the brand said about this collection:

"A lot of men find it difficult to wear and handle Agbada due to its bulky nature but this collection introduces the open robe concept which is simple and stylish.

The Reale collection is a fusion of silk, cotton and wool fabrics. It’s for the bold, ambitious and strong man who is all about tradition yet desires comfort and style."
Intimidation, power play and the expression of it through clothing are not the sole domain of The Devil Wears Prada demographic. Clearly, it transcends Nigerian traditional fashion as well - as we saw with the recpetion of Ebuka's outfit at Banky W and Adesua Etomi's wedding.  Is there really another mode of dressing that grasps the pomp and swagger it takes to look like a Nigerian man? Nope!