What to wear to a Nigerian naming ceremony

A Nigerian naming ceremony is a joyful, family-heavy celebration, and the dress code sits a notch below a wedding. Here is how to get it right.

Festive, not black-tie

You want to look celebratory and respectful, not like you are attending a gala. Colour is welcome and encouraged. If the family sends an aso ebi colour, wear it; if not, pick something bright and clean.

Men: a kaftan or a light agbada

A printed kaftan set is the sweet spot - dressy, comfortable, and easy to sit and hold a baby in. If the family is going big, a full agbada is welcome too.

Women: colour and a headwrap

A wrapper and top or a nice dress with a pre-tied gele is more than enough. Keep jewelry to one piece - a bead or gold set - since you will be moving around with family all day.

If you are close family

Immediate family often coordinates colours or wears matching aso ebi, so check with the parents before the day. Being slightly more dressed than the average guest is normal if you are in the inner circle.

The practical bit

These run long and hands-on, especially if there is a baby. Comfortable shoes and an outfit you can move in beat a stiff, showy look you cannot sit down in.

Where to start

We stock celebration-ready pieces for the whole family at ARINZE, quality-checked with 30-day returns, shipped anywhere in the US from New York.