Asoebi 101: How to Choose and Order Matching Fabric for a Wedding

Asoebi (aso ebi, Yoruba for "family cloth") is the matching fabric that family and friends wear to a Nigerian wedding, engagement, birthday or funeral. It shows who is celebrating with you, and it makes for beautiful photos. Here's how to plan it without the stress.

1. Choose your fabric type

• Lace: the traditional choice for the bride's family and inner circle. Shop lace.
• Stoned Ankara: sparkle that reads beautifully in photos. Shop stoned Ankara.
• Flash gold or glitter wax: shimmer at a friendlier price for bigger groups. Shop flash gold.
• Real wax Ankara: best for casual events, family reunions and large crowds. Shop real wax.

Many couples pick two tiers: lace or stoned fabric for close family, and a coordinating Ankara or flash gold for everyone else.

2. Work out how much each guest needs

One 6-yard piece is enough for most full outfits: a gown and gele, or an iro and buba. Men's shirt and trouser sets usually need 5 to 6 yards. Our yardage guide has a full chart.

3. Check stock before you announce

Every print is limited. Before you send the link to your group, email hello@chinwe.io with the fabric link and how many pieces you need, and we'll confirm availability.

4. Decide how guests pay

• Bulk buy: you order all pieces and guests pay you back. Easiest for matching, best for tight timelines.
• Guests buy their own: share the product link and everyone checks out separately. Orders of $75 or more ship free in the U.S.

5. Leave time for the tailor

Orders usually process in 1 to 3 business days and arrive 5 to 10 business days after that. Most tailors need 2 to 4 weeks. Order 6 to 8 weeks before the event if you can.

Ready to start? See asoebi and group orders or browse luxury and embellished fabrics.