Embroidered Tunics for African Men Many cultures have the tunic as well as different ways of wearing it. In the Nigerian culture, the men’s tunic is called different names depending on the fabric and type of pattern on the fabric. If it’s a plain material like cotton, linen, or other suit fabrics it is referred to as Senator, if the fabric has a lion motif, it is referred to as Isi-Agu, when made with Ankara it is referred to as Native, and if it is a part of a 4-piece traditional ensemble made from Aso-Oke or lace, the tunic becomes an inner wear and is referred to as Buba. The creative expressions of Nigerian designers means that the lines between these tunic styles are blurring as designers stretch the boundaries of creativity. An example of how designers push boundaries can be seen in an Agbada outfit worn by celebrity presenter and Big Brother Nigeria show host, Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, which went viral. See it here. Not an Agbada in the technical sense of the word because it lacked an essential element like covering up the neckline, but it was a stylish re-interpretation, revealing the evolving tastes of upwardly mobile Nigerian men.
THE EMBROIDERED TUNIC The Agbada is known for elaborate embroidery which has become its trademark. Woven by embroidery artisans, the intricacy of the embroidery on the Agbada was used to indicate the wealth and status of the wearer. On the other hand, the Buba which resembles the modern tunic, was originally made with just a little sliver of embroidery around the neckline and was worn with matching trousers. However, this is changing as modern Buba’s are worn with unmatched trousers and now carry elaborate embroidery formerly reserved for the Agbada.