Nigeria is blessed with a rich, multi-cultural landscape, and people who simply love dressing and looking good. Nigerians have gone beyond merely copying western fashion styles – now they boldly set fashion trends across the continent and worldwide. And they are not afraid to experiment with trendy fashion ideas and designs. We are here to showcase the latest fashion trends shaping Nigeria’s style scene. From shoes and bags to hairstyles and clothing – you can never be bored.
However, you will have noticed that certain fashion pieces simply refused to go out of fashion. They were only rebirthed and refined. While some modern style choices have come as a surprise. Join us to explore the synergy of the past and present in the latest fashion trends shaping Nigeria’s style scene without apology. Surely Nigerians are ace fashionistas; observing these diverse colors and experiments are entertainment on its own.
Native Attires are Going Nowhere – That’s Our Nigerian Identity
Traditional attire in Nigeria is as diverse as the many cultures across the country. However, the Yoruba blouse and wrapper; Igbo skirt and/or wrapper with lace blouse; stylish boubous; intricately-cut peplum blouses and skirts continue to re-invent themselves. The iconic Buba, Agbada and trousers, mixed and matched in several styles for the men (using native materials) is quite breathtaking. And of course senator materials and styles for men are becoming more sleek and noble-looking by the day. The amazing variety of colors and patterns that come with these traditional styles is mind-blowing, to say the least.
Speaking of the materials, Ankara (wax prints), Lace, Velvet/suede, Aso-oke and Senator materials continue to reign supreme. Traditional Batik and Tie-and-Dye (Adire) waned for some time, only to re-emerge with force in recent times. Seriously speaking, the colors and patterns are refreshingly attractive.
Yet again, no native attire in Nigeria is complete without jewelry (especially beaded and gilded/silver necklaces and wristbands). Just as well, we have formidable head coverings of all kinds. The famous headtie (‘Gele’) using Aso-oke, net and damask materials, and folded in creative layers – amazing is the word. Another rave in the modern head covering scene is the widespread use of turbans, beautiful scarfs, fascinators, caps and berets. The men of course continue to flaunt their skillfully-crafted caps and hats, with colors to match their shoes and native clothes. The material and color combinations are refreshing, highly entertaining.
By the way – Nigerians have stepped up their fashion game. These traditional materials are now used to sew office designs. Trendy blazers, trousers, tops, gowns, shirts, shoes, bags and caps sewn with native materials have taken over everywhere without apology. And yes, they are pretty cute as well.
Beautiful, Bold and Bright Colors – Proudly Nigerian Any Day
Flowery and multi-coloured print materials sewn into gowns, trousers, tops, and gypsy skirts, are boldly taking over the streets. And yes, the men are not afraid to try out multi-patterned and interesting shirt designs either. If the colors are not loud and bold, they are simply not the latest fashion trend in Nigeria. Particularly amongst the youths – generation Z and newer; they love experimenting with colors (it’s almost obnoxious).
Did You Notice Sneakers/Sport Shoes and Stylish Joggers EVERYWHERE?
If anything openly defines the latest fashion trends shaping Nigeria’s style scene right now, it’s the marriage of traditional and western dressing. And why did we mention it here?
Remember we spoke of using traditional materials to create office wear, earlier on in the article. Such fashion tastes are all too familiar to people walking the streets of the country as we speak. But here’s another shockingly tasteful bit of fashion – sports shoes with traditional and/or office wear. I mean, Wow. It gradually sneaked in (from South Africa), and took everyone by surprise. White sneakers/tennis shoes paired with a blazer and skirt or trousers. Sneakers paired with a native gown, dress or top; even with a native head tie. In some cases, worn with AGBADA – the audacity. But surprisingly, they look good, exceptionally good for the camera to capture. Unbelievable.
But the big relief comes when street folks pair up their sneakers with stylish multi-pocket joggers they were originally meant for. Ah, that’s breathtaking. These joggers come in all manner of comfy materials and designs; and lately velvet/suede materials have been thrown into the mix.
Croc Sandals – We are Speechless!!
Have you noticed the GIANT CROC SANDALS everywhere? Hilariously huge sandals that refuse to be written off. You can find an amazing collection of both strange and appealing patterns amongst these croc sandals. Trust Nigerians, they have fully thrown themselves into wearing crocs everywhere. To the market, parties, worship centers, schools, even the workplace (if they can get away with it). And with all manner of attires, including the traditional. We just told you Nigerians will experiment with just about anything. They got away with this one – definitely!!
Natural and Artificial Dreadlocks – Well oh Well…….
Could it be the economic situation or something else? Some way of reducing the cost of getting a regular haircut for men – especially men? Because so many folks (especially men) choose to leave their hair to grow freely into dreadlocks. Some women are equally rocking dreadlocks; either with their natural hair or by using artificial dreadlocks. It’s one of the latest fashion trends in Nigeria that appears controversial, because not everyone loves dreads (seriously). Nevertheless – it is still a thing.
All Manner of Creative, Protective Hairstyles – Exciting!!
The good thing is, protective hairstyles have come to stay. So go ahead and make your choice. Weaveons, braids, twists, locks, Ghana weaves and threading of all kinds and colors, ranging from the natural to the outrightly bold. Some of them are so long, they reach way below a woman’s waist – you must have noticed.
But this is Nigeria. We define fashion. PERIOD!!
