Does Christmas in Lagos have a scent? Absolute! It’s the aromatic pull of nostalgic herbs wafting through the air. The dry Harmattan breeze carries dust to the nostrils and mixes with the characteristic smell of fireworks (knockouts) after their thunderous explosions. Then there’s the timeless ritual of shopping for Christmas clothes: a sartorial upgrade that spares no one, young or old. Although the stars are dazzling all year round, the festivities require a fresh aesthetic, heralding a season of vibrant renewal. And with Lagos’ now iconic film premieres, the flamboyance reaches new heights, adding even more glamor and excitement to the city.
Just as the peacock confidently unfurls its feathers, celebrities and influencers have lit up the past few weeks with dazzling displays of bejeweled ensembles, voluminous silhouettes, intricate prints and impeccably tailored designs. Their appearance proves that intentionality and spontaneity can work harmoniously as allies of the classical style. This week we had so much choice that we refused to limit ourselves by bringing together twelve looks that cover a rich range of casual to formal event outfit ideas.
This holiday season, embody the essence of the holidays with nostalgic treats: think glittering accessories, vintage-inspired accents and an elevated spirit. Remember that true style radiates from within; everything else is just an extension of that.
Check out the chic ways style stars are preparing for Christmas in Lagos in full finesse…
#1. Ini Edo
It’s raining movie premieres in Lagos and Ini Edo is not one to disappoint when a red carpet awaits her arrival. For the Alakada: Bad and Boujee premiere, in which she co-stars, the superstar actress stepped out in a breathtaking, dazzling sheath dress. She styled the high-neck look with a matching yellow one that seemed to reach for the sky and a pair of Giannico Eve-embellished sandals in red, completing the look with silver and rhinestone-embellished accessories. The end result was a slay that can best be described as a modern Sisi Eko look.
#2. Toke Makinwa
The waiter film premiere was yet another opportunity for Toke Makinwa to shine. The media personality dazzled in a shimmering, sheer dress from Matopeda, made from sparkling sheer fabric, flared sleeve hems and a Peter Pan collar. Notably, the sultry gown revealed a dark playsuit underneath, adding a bold yet elegant touch. Makinwa styled her look with an updo, adding a vintage touch to the contemporary ensemble. To top it all off, her red nails contrasted beautifully with the darker shades, creating an utterly perfect finish.
#3. Cautious Gabriel Okopi
Red is undeniably the official color of the season. Although it’s an unspoken rule, including a red dress in your wardrobe will instantly create a festive atmosphere. Cautious Gabriel Okopia seasoned fashionista, effortlessly embraced this sentiment in a beautiful red figure-hugging dress from her own brand.
The dress showed off intricate details, including a floral-embellished hem that resembled a rosette tree and a matching rosette accent on the chest and sleeves. Cut-out shoulders, softened with delicate lace fabric, added a touch of allure while maintaining a sense of reserved elegance.
#4. Idia Aisien
Tis the season for movie premieres and holidays, and Nollywood fashionistas are taking every opportunity to shine with consistent glamor and finesse. Idia Aisien turned attention to the Christmas In Lagos premiere, exuding opulence in a gaudy Jag Clothings ensemble.
Her look was a captivating mix of a shimmering sheer corset-style dress paired with voluminous baby pink outerwear. She elevated the outfit with a bejeweled puppy mini bag and a woven silver necklace, adding a touch of playful elegance. The pink one, with its dramatic sleeves and cape-like neckline, embodied a regal aesthetic that suited the festive occasion.
#5. Lola Ogunnaike
The perfect holiday party dress may seem elusive, until a sparkling midi dress arrives on the scene. Lola Ogunnaike made a dazzling impression Darren Walkers holiday party, with a pleated midi dress from Marc Jacobs, adorned with a metallic sheen running down the skirt. She completed the look with gold Louboutin pumps, which added a touch of luxury to the look. The charm of this outfit lies in its simplicity and whimsical elegance. It’s the kind of dress that invites you to twirl with joy, whether at a wedding or a festive-themed party.
Shop Christian Louboutin patent leather pumps here
#6. Teniola Aladese
Aso-oke, but redesigned for Lagos haute couture. Actress Teniola Aladese embraced the theme during the Christmas in Lagos premiered with a beautifully custom Emmy Kasbit ensemble that combined clashing prints to perfection. She wore a purple aso-oke jacket over a sheer shirt, seamlessly tucked into deep pink midi pants adorned with captivating African prints.
The sleekness of the outfit lies in the impeccable tailoring, the striking prints, the vibrant color palette and the carefully chosen accessories. It was a masterclass in merging traditional fabrics with contemporary design, capturing the essence of modern Lagos style.
Finds from the store editor
#7. Ini Dima Okojie
How about rocking a sophisticated black ensemble to a holiday wedding? Not your typical all-black look, but one with sequins, structure and a statement accessory to add flair. That is exactly the vision Ini Dima Okojie brought to life. She dazzled in an off-the-shoulder structured top paired with a sequin maxi skirt and a daring high slit.
To complete the look, she added a bold statement necklace and statement red shoes for a pop of color. While black may seem like a safe choice, the interplay of textures created a rich, dynamic aesthetic that is anything but basic.
#8. Temi Otedola
Using ethnic raffia-inspired details, Nigerian fashion brand Eki Kere has redesigned their signature pom-pom top using shredded cotton. Temi Otedola styled the tassel top with white sheer asymmetrical pants, accessorizing with a gold Schiaparelli bag and matching stud earrings.
This look, although minimalist, exuded a sophisticated sophistication and effortless charm. It’s ideal for any afternoon-to-evening engagement this season. Depending on the occasion, you can take the ensemble to the next level with strappy heels or keep it relaxed with ballet flats.
Finds from the store editor
#9. Mimi Yina
Mimi Yina stole the spotlight during the premiere of Christmas in Lagos with a striking look that effortlessly combines sophistication and drama. She dazzled in a floor-length cape top that exuded regal elegance, paired with a feather-embellished pencil skirt that added a playful yet high-fashion touch. To complete the ensemble, Mimi carried a chic black mini bag and elevated her look with an extra-long black fascinator that added a touch of daring. Her sleek black Amina Muaddi pumps, known for their signature flair, provided the perfect finishing touch, making her a true vision of red carpet glamour.
Shop editor’s picks
#10. Veronica Odeka
Lately, high necklines and cold shoulders have been making waves in fashion, and even as temperatures drop, sheer fabrics remain in high demand this season. Now imagine combining all three elements in one dress and adding a soft, simmering shade: that’s pure magic. Fashionista Veronica Odeka showed us how it’s done, with a creation from her brand Vane Style. The dress consisted of layered fabrics, a strategic pattern and finished with a sharp center slit. To complete this look, your shoe choice matters: strappy heels or an open-toe option will do the trick.
#11. Liqueur
Feisty is definitely on the menu this December, and what better way to serve it than with cool leather? Media personality Roseline Afijebetter known as Liquorose, completed the look with a black leather bralette paired with a double slit maxi skirt. This daring ensemble is the perfect choice for a spicy night out.
#12. Idia Aisien
There’s no denying the mastery of a stylish, figure-hugging number, especially when it’s adorned with unique details. Idia Aisien perfectly blended chic and regal in a striking black and gold ensemble for the premiere of Thin line. The dress showed off a corset-style bodice with gold embellishments, a miniskirt and glittering ruffles that dominated the scene. She teamed this with matching heeled sandals, a gold mini bag and statement jewelry that added to the pace.
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