The festive season is officially in full swing in Lagos, and even the weather seems to agree. This year, the harmattan haze blankets the city—a telltale sign that the holidays are on the horizon. But it’s not just the weather signaling the season’s arrival; Lagos is buzzing with its signature festive fashion energy. As the event calendar grows more crowded, the city’s vibrant spirit 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, it’s the perfect time to embrace a carefree attitude, letting loose amid the fast-paced rhythm of adult life in the city.
However, this past week, the fashion scene in Lagos stepped up a notch—though with a whimsical twist. Luxurious satins have taken center stage, effortlessly distinguishing the ever-stylish “rich aunties” in the crowd. Embellishments, too, are going bigger and bolder, adding a touch of drama to the festive wardrobe. Meanwhile, hairstyles are embracing an Afrocentric flair, turning heads with striking threaded styles that command attention. For those leaning towards understated elegance, minimalist cornrows offer a subtle yet distinct nod to ethnic roots.
Check out festive Lagos fashion looks to inspire your holiday style…
#1. Tiwa Savage
Tiwa Savage slayed the green carpet at the Wicked European premiere in a sheer Simone Rocha dress paired with white Louboutin pumps. The ensemble featured a bodysuit beneath a white see-through cape adorned with brown furry details near the hem, perfectly matching her fur-baby handbag. She kept the look minimal with subtle makeup and cornrows, enhancing the understated elegance of the outfit. The festivities don’t always demand bold colors to make an impact—simplistic hues like off-white and brown can exude poise and elevate any festive Lagos fashion ensemble.
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#2. Idia Aisen
Next, Idia Aisen’s Lanre Da Silva ensemble channeled festive elegance with a polished nod to Santa’s iconic robe. The flare maxi dress, paired with a voluminous cape and elbow-length gloves, added drama, while the rich texture and tailored 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, classy, and undeniably memorable.
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#3. Anita Asuoha
Again, the wedding season is here, and beguiling frocks are quickly becoming staples on the menu. A perfect example of this high-fashion energy was Anita Asuoha’s, aka, Real Warri Pikin, show-stopping appearance at the Wicked movie European premiere. She graced the event in a fully beaded Medlin Boss number that was nothing short of breathtaking. From the rich green hue and intricate embellishments to the snatched corset and flawless fit, every detail of the design demanded attention.
#4. Yemi Alade
Yemi Alade effortlessly brought her signature ethnic hairdo 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 balloon high-low dress that beautifully complemented her skin tone. The eccentric hairstyle—crafted into three semi-circle layers—was a true showstopper. The dress’s voluminous design from the hips down created an elegant, gliding effect, while strappy pink sandal heels added the perfect finishing touch.
#5. Mimi Onolaja
The holiday blues are here, and their varying shades bring a festive flair with different levels of intensity. Mimi Onolaja embraced this trend effortlessly, stepping out in a chic M.O.T two-piece featuring pleated balloon pants and a matching blouse. While the blue hue was soft and understated, the overall look was anything but. She added depth with a deeper blue handbag, complemented by white mules and minimal gold accessories. This festive Lagos fashion moment strikes the perfect balance between relaxed and intentional—ideal for an afternoon at an art café.
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#6. Toke Makinwa
A black dress, with a literal cherry on top—because the toppings always make the difference. Toke Makinwa proved this style theory in a stunning Hertunba dress, complete with bell sleeves and striking black, white, and red embellishments. This dress isn’t just an outfit; it’s a statement. Perfect for a family dinner or reunion, it’s conservative enough to keep wandering eyes in check while luxurious enough to silence any doubters in the room.
#7. Priscilla Ojo
What’s festive Lagos style without a femme pink dress? With her fiance’s Nisiulizwe playing in the background, Priscilla Ojo struck a pose on the Gram, exuding girl-next-door charm in a satin DMC midi gown. The spaghetti strap dress featured a bow-like detail on the chest, its polished fabric catching 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 movie premiere, where the dress code was “Flamboyantly Gidi,” actress Omowunmi Dada perfectly embodied the theme in an avant-garde Nkadumeje jumpsuit. Everything about the look was bold. The black jumpsuit, cinched with a corset for a snatched waist, featured an ostentatious golden sleeve that cascaded to the floor in ruched, dramatic detail. In addition, accessories were equally striking, with metallic accents, sleek sunglasses, layered bracelets, and statement earrings. And, of course, the hairstyle didn’t hold back either. The entire ensemble came together to showcase a risk-taking fashionista at her finest.
#9. Powede Awujo
Tie-dye prints on a bodycon maxi are the perfect weekend material. As the holidays approach, weekends become fully booked with end-of-year events—mostly weddings. Enter Powede Awujo’s stunning Tiffany Amber orange print dress, a standout choice for any weekend event in Lagos. Also, the whimsical color and divine fit came together effortlessly, making it a must-have for the festive season.
#10. Diana Eneje
Lastly, period dramas deserve their due credit, as Regency-era-inspired dresses are everywhere, spreading their charm effortlessly. And why not? They’re both ridiculously comfortable and stylish. Diana Eneje rocked a Kay Kay frock with intricate details and a casual flair, showcasing its versatility. The standout collar, extra fabric around the hips, and thoughtful color choice come together to elevate this dress to fabulous levels.
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