Atoke’s Monday Morning Banter: A Touch of Blue

I’m one of those people who has not been blessed with the ability to stay awake to watch American awards. It doesn’t help that they have them on Sundays and staying up to watch TV on a ‘school night’ just seems like a feat that I am unable to achieve. I always try to watch, but Sleep always gets the last laugh. Last night’s Oscars were no different. I followed as much of the Red Carpet activities on Twitter and next thing I knew, I was in the Land of Nod. Pathetic, I tell ya!

So this morning, as I scrolled through photos of all the lovely outfits, I wondered if the invites had Dress Code: Stunning written on them. Then, I saw Pharrell and I thought: “OMG! He’s wearing Jim Iyke’s shorts!” You see, last year at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, Nollywood actor, Jim Iyke wore a pair of shorts and Social Media went crazy with comments. Someone asked if the dress code was ‘NYSC kit.’ While it was funny at that time, it did make me think about the purpose of dress codes.

At weddings, the declaration of ‘Aso-ebi’ is automatically letting you know what the dress code is. However, with the rising costs of Aso-ebi and tailors, you find that some people wear what they have. A lot of times, if the guest finds that the chosen fabric looks atrocious, they end up wearing something that they like and feel comfortable in. It may or may not blend with the prescribe code.

Last week, my friend commented on the fact that people don’t usually conform to prescribed dress codes at beach parties and pool parties in Nigeria. I joked about the fact that we’re not yet quite comfortable with the idea of baring our bums in full view. Then I mentioned that people should be allowed to wear what they’re comfortable in. For instance, if the dress code is ‘All things purple’ and purple isn’t a colour that sits well on you, are you still under an obligation to wear it? While the idea of a dress code might seem like a unifying element, the different interpretations of the dress code sometimes gives off a vibe of utter confusion.

Imagine where the dress code is ‘casual’- someone’s interpretation of ‘casual’ is long flowing dress and sandals, while another person’s ‘casual’ is a Kaftan. It is also interesting to see men all decked out in flowing Agbada at Black Tie events.

Outside of prescribing fabric, style and accessories, can one successfully pull off the ultimate adherence to dress code? What do you guys think about the prescription of dress codes? Are they nice or too cheesy for you? Do you strictly adhere to dress codes? Do you get upset if people don’t adhere to a prescribed dress code?

Someone said that dress codes are actually helpful, as it helps the guest narrow down the choice of outfits. However, with the presence of so many hues of Blue, is the purpose not defeated when every one turns out looking like they are part of a colour spectrum?

Please share some of your dress code stories – good AND bad. Let’s kick off the week on a happy note. Lord knows there’s just so much unhappiness going on.

Have a beautifully productive week ahead. Stay strong, be happy and remember to make a positive difference to those around you.

Peace, love & cupcakes.
Toodles!

Photo Credit: prettypennypincher.com

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Atoke – Writer | Lover | Noisemaker. Twitter – @atoke_