Nollywood star Shawn Faqua and his bride, event planner Sharon Ifunanya, delivered a magnificent spectacle of culture and high fashion at their recent Igbo traditional wedding ceremonies over the weekend. Far exceeding expectations, the couple donned three distinct, memorable outfits, offering a masterclass in the rich and elegant bridal aesthetics of the Igbo culture. Their beautiful celebration kept social media buzzing, reminding all of the profound beauty of Nigerian traditions.
The Grand Multi-Look Showcase
The decision to showcase multiple looks, including the pivotal Igba Nkwu (wine-carrying ceremony), allowed the couple to explore various facets of the culture's sartorial history.
Look One: Royalty in Red, Gold, and Black
For their first appearance, the couple commanded attention in bold, regal tones.
* The Bride, Sharon: She was resplendent in a gold sequined blouse paired with a rich red wrapper. Her red-and-gold Ichafu (headwrap) completed the look in sumptuous jewel colors. She accessorized with elegant gold-toned jewelry.* The Groom, Shawn: He perfectly complemented his bride in a dark Awuru outfit featuring Isiagu (lion head) prints. His traditional red cap was exquisitely detailed with cowries, and he proudly displayed layers of coral beads, a symbol of high status and royalty.
Look Two: Classic Charm in White, Red, and Coral
The second transition brought a lighter, yet equally dramatic, aesthetic.
* The Groom, Shawn: He opted for a sharp white robe with a matching drape, contrasted with a vibrant red wrapper. His red hat, adorned with a white feather, added a touch of flair. The coral beads layered against the white fabric truly made a stunning visual statement.
* The Bride, Sharon: She embraced an all-red ensemble, wearing a fitted corset gown intricately detailed with beadwork. Her hair was styled in a traditional updo (Suku) and decorated with coral beads that perfectly matched her other jewelry, demonstrating flawless coordination with the groom.Look Three: The Akwete Masterpiece
The final and arguably most significant look was a vibrant tribute to the unique Akwete fabric, a hand-woven material from Abia State.
* The Bride, Sharon: Her outfit featured a sequined white top paired with a flowing, multi-layered Akwete skirt gracefully knotted at the waist. The woven fabric was a painter's palette of blue, purple, orange, green, brown, and off-white, arranged in stunning geometric patterns and lightly embellished with stoning. Her white headwrap, along with matching purple and silver jewelry and a final touch of coral beads on her wrists, cemented an image of timeless Igbo bridal elegance, reminiscent of a classic 1970s and 80s aesthetic.
