As the new year unfolds and the city lights flicker in Lagos, celebrities and influencers are already setting the style tone for 2026. Make no mistake, they are wearing beautiful clothes. But it doesn’t end there. They create style moments that shine as brightly as the city lights themselves. From glitzy red carpets that demand attention to street style that turns sidewalks into catwalks, Lagos’ fashion-forward elite are ringing in the year with undeniable confidence and flair.
Bold colours, sleek silhouettes and authenticity at every step: Lagos is the place where fashion is not only born, but also made. A new year always calls for fresh mood boards, refined edits and room for style evolution. And if these early looks are to be believed, 2026 will be a year where Lagos fashion speaks louder, sharper and more fearlessly than ever.
Check out the Lagos baddies who are setting the agenda in New Year’s style…
#1. Rita Dominicus
During the MTN Prestige event, Rita Dominicus delivered an effortlessly chic moment in a Lanre Da Silva Ajayi creation that spoke to the evolving story of African fashion. The black and yellow geometric print nods to the heritage and at the same time felt thoroughly modern and trendy.
The voluminous cape jacket, cinched at the waist, highlighted the growing dominance of statement outerwear, while the tailored yet relaxed trousers reflected the shift towards greater comfort. Accessories were deliberately chosen: a sleek black clutch and playful orange sunglasses added personality without overpowering the look. This was a confident statement about Afrocentric design that felt bold, futuristic and rooted.
#2. Tiwa wanted
It’s almost common that when Tiwa wanted enters a room, attention follows. Draped in a striking green satin dress, she embodied the perfect balance between poise and strength. The voluminous sleeves added regal drama, while the sleek silhouette gave the look a modern sensuality.
The fabric shimmered under the lights, creating depth and movement. Her accessories, delicate jewelry and a matching green clutch added an understated glamour. As always, Tiwa’s confidence did the heavy lifting, proving once again that her fashion choices are just as impressive as her presence.
#3. Tolu Bally
When fashion and artistry meet, the result is nothing short of magic. Tolu Bally delivered exactly that in a stunning 2207 look from Bally. The ensemble was a bold combination of sculptural design and dramatic florals, immediately turning heads with its vibrant appliqués in shades of red, pink and blue.
The cropped top with puffed sleeves balanced strength and femininity, while the fitted skirt hugged the body precisely. Against the backdrop of rich red tones and a grand piano, the look felt like a celebration of luxury and cultural expression. Styled with strappy heels and statement earrings, this was a moment that really ate and left no crumbs.
Finds from the store editor
#4. Toke Makinwa
A well-executed collaboration can take fashion to new heights, and the TM x Banke Kuku collection is a great example of this. Toke Makinwas look with bold red, orange and gold hues, brought to life with an oversized tulle overlay that added fluidity and drama.
The fitted top and mini skirt underneath balanced out the volume above, keeping the look chic and contemporary. Styled with subtle gold jewelry, a crisp white mini bag and orange PVC heels, the ensemble felt powerful yet sophisticated. With trademark confidence, Toke proved that great collaborations not only merge visions, but also strengthen them.
#5. Grace Eke
Grace Eke welcomed the new year in an ethereal Xta Queen Designz ensemble that leaned toward a bridal-inspired style. The pristine white strapless dress featured a daring thigh-high slit, mixing sensuality with elegance.
A feather stole and oversized hat elevated the look to It Girl status, channeling high fashion drama with ease. Combined with soft makeup and minimal jewelry, the ensemble set a sophisticated yet fashionable tone for the year ahead.
#6. Bimbo Ademoye
Bimbo Ademoye shimmered in a metallic Ciar Official dress that caught the light with every move. The cropped top with deep V-neck added a touch of daring, while the flowing skirt elegantly balanced the look.
Her Louis Vuitton mini bag provided a luxurious boost, and cool earrings framed her face beautifully. The simple yet deliberate styling allowed the dress to shine, demonstrating Ademoye’s understanding of modern, confident glamour.
#7. Dorcas Shola Fapson
Dorcas Shola Fapson effortlessly turned the streets into her personal catwalk, with an impeccable mix of cool, cool and chic. Her J’adore Dior top, splashed with pink and yellow, radiated luxurious energy, perfectly paired with ripped wide-leg jeans that exuded relaxed confidence.
Yellow heels and a matching handbag added a playful touch, while oversized sunglasses sealed the look with character. DSF did not walk alone. She strutted around and reminded everyone that street style is as much about personality as it is polish.
#8. Lilian Afegbai
Lilian Afegbai embraced holiday chic in a playful mini denim dress from Liv & Eve. The structured bodice and subtle piping added a touch of shine, while the flared skirt created a carefree holiday vibe.
Styled with white heart-tipped pumps, the look struck a perfect balance between casual and elevated. Against the backdrop of Table Mountain, this was a relaxed style, appropriate for the New Year.
Shop editor’s picks
#9. Bolaji Ogunmola
Bolaji Ogunmola proved that confidence is the ultimate accessory in a striking black and white dress. The sultry high slit and dramatic halter neckline made an immediate impact, while white detailing on the shoulders provided a bold contrast to the black number.
With a fitted bodice, long sleeves and carefully chosen accessories, the look struck a balance between mystery and elegance. Ultimately, her pose completed the moment, reinforcing that true style is about how you own it.
#10. Roseline Afije
Under dazzling city lights, Liquorose stepped out, ready to give the streets a run for their money. Her denim ensemble, a cropped jacket and shorts, combined casual ease with a high-fashion attitude, anchored by black heels that transformed the look. From the ripped jacket to her undeniable confidence, she proved that sometimes all it takes is attitude, styling and presence to make the city your catwalk.
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