The Netela is a handmade scarf-like cloth made of cotton worn by Ethiopian and Eritrean women. It is very well known and commonly worn by the women of Ethiopia and Eritrea.
What is Netela?
A neṭela (ነጠላ) is a handmade scarf-like cloth made of cotton. It is very thin and delicate, with the texture of gauze. The netela has only two layers and is quite large, measuring about 63 x 102 inches. It is white with colorful intricately woven borders called ṭibébé (ጢቤቤ).
How to wear Netela
The netela can be worn in different ways. For general wear, the netela covers the back and shoulders and the border is folded up over the right shoulder, but when attending church the two layers of the netela are opened and the border goes over both shoulders. When the border is worn around the face or shoulders, it is a sign of mourning, but in moments of leisure the border goes over the left shoulder.
Gabi - Ethiopian Traditional Dress | A to Z @ArtsTvWorld
There are other textiles similar to the netela.
Similar Textiles
There is the foṭa (ፎጣ), a colorful shawl-like garment measuring 58 x 105 inches. Fotas usually have checkerboard designs and are simply wrapped around the shoulders or over the head as a shawl. There is a third kind of textile called donċho (ዶነጮ), which is a very long cotton sash with a border in color; it is only worn by married women.
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Clothing in Ethiopia
Clothing in Ethiopia includes traditional garments as well as modern fashion styles, accessories and cosmetics. Ethiopia has a rich history for textile production due to its cotton production. Textile outputs include handcrafted translucent shemma cloth made of Amhara embroideries.
Habesha Kemis
Habesha kemis is made of woven material worn by women. It is usually designed in white color outfit and widely used by the general population, becoming the most accepted dress in Ethiopian culture. Notwithstanding its wider acceptance, there are also different variations in its pattern.
Men's Garments
Similar to the female Habesha kemis outfit, men's garments consist of well-designed woven patterns. Although the colors vary, the outfit is mostly white and usually cozy. Bernos is adapted and worn by Ethiopian and Eritrean highlanders. Donald N. The Bernos is also worn by highlander élites and often seen more importantly in social status.
Gabi
The gabi (Amharic: ጋቢ) is a thicker garment, with four layers of fabric.
Recent Developments in Ethiopian Fashion
In October 2022, the Ministry of Finance issued letter to the National Bank of Ethiopia (NBE) to ban 38 unwarranted imports of perfumes and cosmetics for indefinite period. In 2023, Ethiopia's cosmetic and personal care industry was challenged by ongoing unrest and conflict.
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Summary
The Netela remains a significant cultural symbol in Ethiopia and Eritrea, reflecting the rich history and traditions of the region. Its usage in various social and religious contexts underscores its importance in daily life and special occasions.
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