Evolution of Dressing Amongst Nigerian Women 1910s to 1970s (Photos)

Dressing in Nigeria amongst women is slightly complicated. This is because most women who dress in the country identify with their tribes and ethnic group. Nigeria is a large, diverse country which makeup 250+ ethnic group though predominant by these major three; Hausa, Igbo and Yoruba. Dressing is a value that identifies who we are and speaks volumes about our identity. From the early beginnings of Nigeria during the precolonial times, dressing has evolved from very simple designs that barely cover nakedness to complex designs that began probably in the 1930s.

From the 1950s, dressing among women in Nigeria took a different turn and things began to change rapidly as ideas began to pour in; with many embracing various unique styles even while maintaining decency and cultural identity. The Factboyz Team brings to you various pictures that show the massive evolution of dressing among women in Nigeria.

1910s

Mary Slessor(seating) amongst Efik women in present Cross River State (1910s)

1920s

1930s

1940s

1950s

A young woman looks on during Queen Elizabeth’s visit to Nigeria (1956)

1960s

 

1970s

The photograph depicts Yoruba women with tribal marks. This photograph was taken by Eliot Elisofon in 1973.