Umembeso is a pre-wedding ceremony held in the Zulu culture to celebrate the union of two families. In this ceremony the groom's family brings gifts to the bride's family. This is a symbol of them being accepted in the bride's family. Historically, umembeso was a way in which the groom's family shows appreciation and gratitude to the bride's family for raising a well-mannered and respectful woman. The bride's family would then accept the gifts as a sign of their approval in the marriage.
The attire worn during umembeso is a reflection of the rich cultural heritage of the Zulu people. Both the bride and groom dress in traditional clothing. The groom's family also provides the bride's attire as part of their gift.
The bride wears a skirt made of cowhide called "isidwaba" adorned with colorful beads and intricate patterns. She will also wear a beaded bodice called "insimbi" or" inhliziyo" and then a headband called "umqhele" which is made of beads and cotton.
The room, on the other hand, will wear animal skin called "ibheshu" which is a traditional Zulu attire for men. He may also wear a headband made of animal skin and adorned with feathers called "indlanzi"
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