The festive season is officially in full swing in Lagos, and even the weather seems to agree. This year, the Harmattan Nebula will blanket the city – a telltale sign that the festive season is approaching. But it’s not just the weather that signals the arrival of the season; Lagos is buzzing with its signature festive fashion energy. As the events calendar gets busier, the vibrant spirit of the city takes center stage. From star-studded Lagos parties to grand weddings and glitzy product launches, there’s no shortage of reasons to celebrate. For many, this is the perfect time to embrace a carefree attitude, amid the fast pace of adult city life.
Over the past week, Lagos’ fashion scene has stepped up its game, albeit with a whimsical twist. Luxurious satin fabrics take center stage, effortlessly distinguishing the ever-stylish ‘rich aunts’ from the crowd. The decorations are also getting bigger and bolder, adding a touch of drama to the festive wardrobe. Meanwhile, the hairstyles embrace an Afrocentric flair, turning heads with bold wire styles that command attention. For those who lean toward understated elegance, minimalist cornrows offer a subtle yet clear nod to ethnic roots.
Check out the festive Lagos fashion looks to inspire your holiday style…
#1. Tiwa wanted
Tiwa wanted defeated the green carpet at the Bad European premiere in a sheer Simone Rocha dress paired with white Louboutin pumps. The ensemble consisted of a bodysuit under a white sheer cape adorned with brown furry detailing at the hem, perfectly matching her baby fur handbag. She kept the look minimal with subtle makeup and cornrows, which enhanced the understated elegance of the outfit. The festivities don’t always require bold colors to make an impression; simplistic shades like off-white and brown can exude balance and elevate any festive Lagos fashion ensemble.
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#2. Idia Aisen
Idia Aisens The Lanre Da Silva ensemble channeled festive elegance with a polished nod to Santa’s iconic garb. The flared maxi dress, paired with a voluminous cape and elbow-length gloves, added drama, while the rich texture and fitted cut kept the look refined. A rosette choker and chic fascinator brought the outfit to life, making it a standout at the LDS show: unique, stylish and undeniably memorable.
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#3. Anita Asuoha
The wedding season has arrived and seductive dresses are quickly becoming a regular part of the menu. A perfect example of this high-fashion energy was Anita Asuohaalso known as Real Warri Pikin, a breathtaking performance at the Bad film European premiere. She graced the event with a fully beaded Medlin Boss number that was nothing short of breathtaking. From the rich green hue and intricate embellishments to the ripped corset and impeccable fit, every detail of the design demanded attention.
#4. Yemi Alade
Yemi Alade effortlessly brought her signature ethnic hairstyle to life at the 15th anniversary of CNN’s Voices, where she was honored for her exceptional talent. She graced the event in a striking yellow high-low balloon dress that beautifully complemented her skin tone. The eccentric hairstyle, crafted in three layers of semi-circles, was a real showstopper. From the hips, the dress’s voluminous design created an elegant, sliding effect, while pink strappy sandals provided the perfect finishing touch.
#5. Mimi Onolaja
The holiday blues are here and their different shades provide a festive flair with varying levels of intensity. Mimi Onolaja embraced this trend effortlessly, stepping out in a chic MOT two-piece with pleated balloon pants and a matching blouse. While the blue hue was soft and subdued, the overall look was anything but. She added depth with a deeper blue handbag, accessorized with white mules and minimal gold accessories. This festive fashion moment in Lagos strikes the perfect balance between relaxed and intentional: ideal for an afternoon in an art café.
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#6. Toke Makinwa
A black dress, but with a literal icing on the cake, because the toppings always make the difference. Toke Makinwa proved this style theory true in a stunning Hertunba dress, complete with billowing sleeves and bold black, white and red embellishments. This dress is not just an outfit; it’s a statement. Perfect for a family dinner or reunion, it’s conservative enough to control wandering eyes yet luxurious enough to silence any doubters in the room.
#7. Priscilla Ojo
What is festive Lagos style without a femme pink dress? With her husband’s Nisiulizwe playing in the background, Priscilla Ojo posed on the Gram and exuded girl-next-door charm in a satin DMC midi dress. The spaghetti strap dress featured a bow-like detail at the chest and the polished fabric caught the light effortlessly. She completed the look with rosette-detailed sandals and a sleek ponytail, tied with a pink ribbon.
#8. Omowunmi Dada
At the Suspicion film premiere, where the dress code was ‘Flamboyantly Gidi’, actress Omowunmi Dada embodied the theme perfectly in an avant-garde Nkadumeje jumpsuit. Everything about the look was daring. The black jumpsuit, cinched with a corset for a cinched waist, featured a flashy gold sleeve that fell to the floor with ruched, dramatic details. Accessories were equally striking, with metallic accents, sleek sunglasses, layered bracelets and statement earrings. And of course the haircut didn’t hold back either. The entire ensemble came together to showcase a risk-taking fashionista at her best.
#9. Powede Awujo
Tie-dye prints on a bodycon maxi are the perfect weekend material. As the holidays approach, weekends become booked up with end-of-year events, mostly weddings. Enter Powede Awujos beautiful Tiffany Amber-orange print dress, a striking choice for any weekend event in Lagos. The playful color and divine fit came together effortlessly, making it a must-have for the holidays.
#10. Diana Enej
Historical dramas deserve their due, as dresses inspired by the Regency era are everywhere, spreading their charm effortlessly. And why not? They are both ridiculously comfortable and stylish. Diana Enej rocked a Kay Kay dress with intricate details and a casual flair, showcasing its versatility. The striking collar, extra fabric around the hips and thoughtful color choice come together to take this dress to a fantastic level.
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