If you have been privileged to attend a Batooro traditional ceremony, you must have noticed some of the men clad in kanzu (traditional Kitooro wear for the men) while the women were beautifully clad in the suuka (traditional Kitooro wear for the women).
The suuka is the official traditional wear every Mutooro woman that is meant to give them a sense of belonging while preserving their culture. Like many other Ugandan traditional dresses, the Suuka consists of three pieces of attires; the material which is wrapped around the shoulders usually two and a half meters long, the dress which is usually up to knee length and the kitambi which is wrapped around the waist and runs down to the feet.
Each of the three pieces of the suuka is made from a different material. The material wrapped around the shoulders and the dress is made of silk. Most women usually prefer sari over silk because of its simplicity and easy maintenance. The kitambi which is wrapped around the waist is usually made of satin and for classier and beautiful look, a net matching the colors of the kitambi is sewn on top of it. It is usually a wrapper but for comfort purposes, most women these days prefer it tailored as a skirt.
Although most women do not give much thought to the color of the outfit, it is one thing that makes the suuka stand out. When choosing the color, it is important to involve the tailor for an artistic touch. For example, matching ocean blue and maroon, brown and gold, orange and brown among others seems weird but when the shades are picked carefully, they harmonize beautifully.
After picking the materials, the embroidery should also be chosen with much care. Over time, the suuka is being modernized; most women usually prefer chained straps for the dress. They are small straps ranging between two to three meters depending on the size of the person. A modern kitambi also has finishing embroidery at the bottom which match the entire outfit as well and give it an exquisite flair.
To accessorize the suuka you will need to add nice African jewellery since it is a traditional outfit. The suuka is mostly worn on occasions like weddings, introduction and giveaway ceremonies, and baptism or as a church attire.
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