Trends Spotted at the Lagos Fashion Week
October in Nigeria was no ordinary month. It was a month that ignited the fashion scene in the country’s style capital, Lagos, with an explosion of creativity, colour, and unapologetic self-expression. It was a month when fashion designers, models, enthusiasts, and style mavens all came together to celebrate their love for fashion in a grand showcase of style and innovation.
Lagos Fashion Week, the epicentre of this fashion extravaganza, is one of the several fashion platforms where the country’s designers converge to unveil their latest collections. For this purpose, the runway became a stage for innovation, creativity, and storytelling through fashion.
But October wasn’t just about the runway. It was a multi-faceted month that brought together various elements of the fashion ecosystem. It was a carnival of fashion talks, dinners, retail parties, and stand-alone shows that captivated attendees and left them inspired.
For the fashion enthusiasts, they came from all corners of Nigeria and beyond, converging in Lagos for this grand spectacle. They came dressed in their finest, each outfit meticulously curated to make a statement. Some drew inspiration from the runway, showcasing the latest trends, while others took it a step further, crafting their own unique fashion narratives. The vibrant street style became a show of its own. Lagosians embrace rich colours, bold patterns, and eclectic combinations with an effortless confidence that is uniquely Nigerian. The streets of Lagos become a runway of their own, a testament to the city’s fearless approach to fashion. Beyond the glitz and glamour, the fashion event also created a platform for meaningful conversations about the industry. Fashion talks and panel discussions delved into important topics like sustainability, diversity, and the future of fashion in Africa. It was not just about showcasing beautiful clothes; it was about fostering a deeper understanding of the fashion landscape.
In Nigeria, fashion is more than just clothing; it’s a way of life. It’s about celebrating individuality, embracing diversity, and fearlessly expressing oneself through style. Nigerian designers generally have a reputation for pushing boundaries and defying convention. Their collections often tell stories deeply rooted in culture, history, and social commentary.
The month of October was a reminder that fashion is not just about what you wear; it’s about who you are. And as the world watches with awe and admiration, we can confidently say that the future of fashion in Nigeria is indeed bright.
(Intro by Konye Chelsea Nwabogor)
3D Silhouettes
Say goodbye to flat fashion! Designers brought garments to life with avant-garde 3D silhouettes that seemed to defy gravity. From exaggerated shoulders to voluminous skirts, these designs added an extra dimension of excitement to the runway.
Bold Prints
The bolder, the better! Lagos Fashion Week presented a riot of eye-catching prints that were impossible to ignore. From vibrant florals to geometric patterns, attendees were transported into a kaleidoscope of colours and shapes.
Crochet
Time to get hooked on crochet! This timeless craft was abundant at Lagos Fashion Week. Designers combined crochet techniques with modern cuts, creating stunning garments that effortlessly blended tradition and contemporary style.
Cut-outs
Dare to bare! Cut-outs were a major trend, revealing strategic peeks of skin in unexpected places. Whether it was a shoulder, waist, or thigh, these unexpected peeks inserted an alluring touch of flirtation to the runway.
Sewn-on Denim Pants
Denim with a twist! Designers reimagined classic denim pants with deconstructed elements. Frayed hems and asymmetrical cuts transformed these wardrobe staples into works of art.
Denim
Denim never goes out of style! Lagos Fashion Week demonstrated the versatility of this timeless fabric. From denim dresses to co-ords, attendees witnessed a denim revolution where creativity knew no bounds.
Fringes
Get ready to shimmy and shake! Fringes swung from the runways, injecting a playful sense of motion into each outfit. From delicate fringe details to bold, statement-making fringes, this trend brought the party to Lagos Fashion Week.
Hand-dyed fabrics
Art meets fashion! Hand-dyed fabrics made a splash at Lagos Fashion Week, displaying the beauty of intricate dyeing techniques. Each garment was a unique masterpiece, highlighting the craftsmanship and creativity of the designers.
Monochrome Co-ords
Effortlessly chic! Casual monochrome co-ords dominated the runways, offering a stylish alternative to traditional matching sets. From head-to-toe neutral to bold turquoise ensembles, this trend allowed fashionistas to look effortlessly put together.
Puffy Details
Prepare for a fashion feast! Puffy details were everywhere, contributing drama and whimsy to every outfit. From oversized sleeves to voluminous skirts, this trend made a bold statement that couldn’t be ignored.
Raffia
Embrace nature’s touch! Raffia made a stunning appearance, bringing an organic and earthy vibe to the runway. Designers incorporated this sustainable material into accessories, footwear, and clothing, proving that fashion and sustainability can go hand in hand.
Ruching
Add a touch of romance with ruching! Ruching took centre stage, creating visually appealing gathers and pleats that brought depth and dimension to garments.
Shiny Fabrics
Shine bright like a diamond! Shiny fabrics took over the runways, reflecting light and capturing attention. From metallic finishes to sequins and vinyl, this trend allows fashionistas to embrace their inner disco diva.
Structured Ruffles
Ruffles get a modern makeover with structured designs that bring a new level of elegance and refinement. From structured ruffled sleeves to ruffled hemline details, these architectural ruffles will have you feeling like a fashion queen.
Textured Fabrics
Feel the fabric! Textured fabrics were all the rage, offering a tactile experience for both the eyes and the hands. This trend added interest to every garment, from intricate weaves to quilted and embellished fabrics.
