The woman wearing this traditional Ethiopian garment has two shawls: one for the head and another for the shoulders. It’s important to keep in mind that, despite its widespread use, the “netela” is not the only way Ethiopian women wrap around. The “fota,” “docho,” and “gabi” are among them. The “fota”—a piece that resembles a towel—is typically patterned and brighter. It measures roughly 57 by 105 inches, or 147 by 268 cm. The lengthy “docho” is reserved for married women. Typically, the “docho” measures approximately 8 meters, or 26 feet, in length. The “gabi” is more akin to a lightweight blanket than a scarf in the traditional sense. Although it is typically used by men, ladies can wear it to stay warm at home because it is thicker and warmer than a “netela”. The cuffs, the middle, the bottom, or all three can be embroidered with needlework for Shewa ladies on the white linen. This is matched with a white “netela,” or scarf wrapped in the same color and fabric as the design. On the other hand, the Gondar type merely features a thick rim of embroidery on the back of the bottom hem.
