Bestows Pride, Authority

ISI Agu (Lion head in English), socalled because of the lion head pattern on the fabric, is a traditional outfit worn by the people of eastern Nigeria. It is usually worn on special events, such as weddings and chieftaincy titles, among others.

Usually, the top has long or short sleeves. Some shirts have gold buttons that are linked by a chain. There is usually a breast pocket on the front. The fabric comes in cotton or velvet.

Before, only men wore this attire, but this is no longer so, as women are also wearing this beautiful fabric and using it to make lovely styles. The Isi Agu fabric comes in diverse colours of choice. Hardly will you attend an event without seeing people rocking this fabric.

The managing director, Asandrea Fashion, Tochukwu Michael Tochukwu, said Isi Agu is prestigious Igbo apparel that bestows pride and authority on the wearer, as every Igbo man is a lion, while the woman is a lioness.

He said: “We are proud of who we are and where we come from. We are strong and ever ready to survive in any jungle we find ourselves. We are kings and queens of the jungle all over the world, and as it is well known, the lion is king of the jungle. Isi Agu is a special fabric for Ndi Igbo because it defines who we are.

“Before 2012, Isi Agu was an outfit for few Igbo people, but I redesigned Isi Agu to a more suitable style that would be acceptable to Igbo people globally. Isi Agu fabric can also be combined with Italian suit fabric.

“This attire can be worn with a nice fitting sandal or shoe. Men wearing Isi Agu can pair it with a matching cap; bead (optional) and they are good to go. Depending on the outfit, women should opt for a lovely flat, low heels or high heels with a nice handbag. The most important thing is to wear shoes that will go with your outfit and the one that makes you comfortable. If you are not comfortable in heels, save yourself the embarrassment and don’t force yourself to wear such.”