The creative industry in Nigeria is a world unto itself. It’s a shameless, irrational ecosystem with cult-like following, unbridled passion, and a foolish belief in the power of community. The fashion scene is no exception. Fashion, in its purest form, is about storytelling. And here, through stubborn resilience, our stories can be told and the world can take notice and make us known for who we are on the global stage.
As October marks the fashion season in most parts of the world, Lost in Lagos Plus Magazine has partnered with Lagos Fashion Week to capitalize on its latest releases, showcasing the pioneers who laid the foundation and African fashion. We celebrate new players who are taking the game beyond what was previously imagined.
“Building this partnership has been a dream come true. It just feels like destiny. A tailored, corseted, beaded, styled and accessorized match made in heaven.” Lost says Elvis Osifo, Editor-in-Chief of In Lagos Plus Magazine.
Don’t know where to start? Check out our list of ‘Top 10 Leading Fashion Brands in Nigeria’ and ‘Top 5 Leading Bespoke Designers in Abuja’. Find out about Awari’s impact on Africa’s lifestyle and tourism market and how Nigeria is charting its fashion path towards a greener future. Omoyemi Akerele is all about sustainability, and The Style Infidel intends to keep trends at arm’s length.
Watching what Isaac John accomplishes in 12 hours makes your jaw drop, but reading Rukki Ladoja’s take on how embarrassing it is to question African brands makes you want to hold it up and think about it. Please prepare for. sustainability.
Every month, a company is featured as the Spot of the Month, and this October, Dodo will be on stage. With 16 stores, 21 pizza flavors and the award-winning “Most Loved Pizza Brand of the Year,” Dodo Pizza delivers joy across the country, one slice at a time.
Beyond the mouthwatering pizzas and competitive pricing, what sets this place apart is its commitment to personalization. At Dodo, you can eat pizza any way you like. Every slice is designed to bring joy, and they understand that joy tastes different for everyone.
Click here to read the latest issue of Lost In Lagos Plus magazine now.
Top 10 major fashion brands in Nigeria
Nigeria’s fashion scene is thriving, with local brands making waves at home and abroad. From intricately decorated pieces to bold, modern designs, these brands are pushing boundaries and setting trends. Here are 10 leading fashion brands that are defining style and craftsmanship in Nigeria today.
Lisa Folawiyo
Lisa Folawiyo is a luxury fashion brand known for its exquisite craftsmanship, specializing in intricate hand embellishments and beadwork. Their designs combine luxury with a modern edge to create elegant and sophisticated pieces.
The brand is characterized by its commitment to turning fashion into art, offering a unique way for individuals to express themselves through luxurious, handcrafted pieces.
Phone: +2348033085416 |lisafolawiyo.com | IG: @lisafolawiyo_studio
Bankkuku
Banke Kuku is a luxury brand known for its vibrant textiles and unique fusion of African and Western influences. The brand focuses on silk fabrics with bold digital patterns to create stunning loungewear, kaftans, and slip dresses designed to flatter every body type.
With a focus on craftsmanship and cultural heritage, Banke Kuku’s designs have been recognized worldwide, having been featured in Vogue and worn by celebrities such as Michelle Obama and Tiwa Savage.
Phone: +2348182430608 | bank account.com | IG: @bankekuku
this is us
This is Us is dedicated to showcasing high-quality design using locally sourced materials and sustainable processes. Their outstanding Fantua projects feature indigo-dyed cotton woven in Katsina and hand-dyed at Kano’s historic Kofar Mata dye house.
The brand is known for its iconic “This is Funtua” t-shirts, uniform live/workwear, and numerous other collaborative pieces that blend tradition with modern functionality.
Phone: +2347034291948 | thisisusworld.com | IG:@thisisusng
Ara
Ara is a premium Adir ready-to-wear brand that combines traditional Nigerian artistry with modern fashion trends. Known for its intricately designed fabrics created by Osogbo’s skilled artisans, each piece is hand-painted and hand-dyed to create vibrant, stunning patterns.
From Adire dresses to comfy matching sets and colorful pants, Ara beautifully represents Nigeria’s rich heritage.
Phone: +2347071654772 |aralagos.com | IG: @ara.lagos_
dye lab
Founded by Rukky Ladoja, Dye Lab is a socially conscious fashion brand committed to zero waste and supporting local craftsmanship.
Known for their masterful use of intricately dyed adire fabrics, Dye Lab offers a wide range of artisanal yet functional clothing, including kimonos, agbadas, brightly printed shirts and culottes. With its growing international presence, the brand has risen to prominence in the Nigerian fashion world.
Phone: +2347087264853 |Dye Lab IG: @dye_lab
orange culture
Launched in 2010 by Adebayo Oke-Lawal, Orange Culture is known for its fusion of Nigerian-inspired prints and universal streetwear silhouettes. The brand challenges traditional gender norms with androgynous designs.
Orange Culture stands out for its innovative use of fabrics and colors, blending African tradition with contemporary style. Achievements include collaborations with global brands, features in prestigious publications, and notable appearances at New York Fashion Week.
orangeculture.com.ng | IG: @orangecultureng
emmy cusbit
Emmy Kasbit is a sustainable fashion brand known for its use of Akwete, a hand-woven artisanal textile created by a team of women from the Emmy Kasbit Initiative Empowerment Platform.
Emmy Cusbitt is characterized by a commitment to preserving culture, eradicating poverty and promoting freedom through fashion. Each piece reflects a dedication to sustainability and cultural storytelling, making Emmy Cusbit a pioneer in ethical fashion.
Phone: +2348025576579 | emmykasbit.com | IG: @emmykasbit
Atafo
Led by visionary designer Mai Atafo, Atafo is a leading African fashion brand known for its expertise in men’s, women’s and bridal wear. The brand is known for its modern reinterpretation of traditional Nigerian costumes, offering a collection of bespoke tailored garments, elegant wedding dresses, and ready-to-wear.
Known for its meticulous craftsmanship, clean cuts, and perfect fit, the brand has cultivated a sophisticated clientele at home and abroad.
Phone: +2347062428236 |Atafo.Africa | IG: @atafo__
Hugo Monnier
Ugo Monye Clothing is a renowned menswear brand known for its bold, avant-garde designs and luxury collections that fuse traditional African elements with modern sophistication.
The brand’s innovative KONIPARI collection embodies this approach, offering versatile, multi-style pieces that combine regal elegance with eclectic flair. Hugo Monnier’s originality and innovative approach to African fashion distinguishes the brand with a mission to elevate African fashion globally.
Phone: +2347045451086 | ugomonye.com | IG: @ugomonye.official
Obida
OBIDA is a brand committed to celebrating West African culture through sustainable design made from 100% Nigerian Fantua cotton. Their work showcases African excellence by blending tradition and innovation, supporting local artisans and incorporating environmentally friendly practices.
OBIDA is characterized by its dedication to creating conscious, culturally rich pieces that reflect the beauty and heritage of West Africa.
Phone: +2347025005872 |Obida Culture IG: @obida.culture
Top 5 Leading Bespoke Designers in Abuja
Home to some of Nigeria’s most innovative and trendsetting designers, the city offers an eclectic mix of luxury, bespoke tailoring and culturally inspired pieces.
Here are five fashion designers who represent Abuja. Each offers something unique and noteworthy to the fashion scene.
Voddy Taylors
Founded by Seyi Adekunle in 2001, Vodi Tailors has established itself as one of Africa’s leading menswear brands. Initially focusing on boxers and shirts, the company has grown to offer a wide range of clothing including suits, kaftans, and custom uniforms.
Adekunle’s passion for African fashion with a Western touch is what sets Vodi Tailors apart in the Nigerian fashion industry. Known for their exceptional craftsmanship and use of high-quality fabrics, Vodi Tailors offers a unique blend of traditional African style and modern tailoring techniques.
IG: @voditailors
Cathy Anthony
Founded in 2010 by Oluwatoyin Iwukemijika, Cathy Anthony has become a well-known brand, especially among brides looking for exquisite wedding dresses and haute couture.
With a background in the business world before venturing into the fashion industry, Oluwatoyin has successfully combined her love of fashion with her business acumen. Cathy Anthony is revered for transforming traditional materials into modern masterpieces, using Ankara, lace, and Aso Oke fabrics.
The brand specializes in bespoke and ready-to-wear tailoring, and customers are often awed by the intricacy and attention to detail in every piece.
IG: @kathyanthony
mudi africa
Led by Clement Mudiaga Enagemo, Mudi Africa is a fashion powerhouse with strong roots across Africa. The brand is known for its luxurious and elegant designs for men and is a symbol of sartorial excellence. Mudi Africa has earned an international reputation for its sophisticated, distinctive African style. The brand produces pieces that evoke grandeur and sophistication, making it a favorite among high-profile clients and fashion enthusiasts. Whether it’s an elaborate agbada or a carefully tailored suit, Mudi Africa ensures that every man can feel like royalty in his attire.
IG: @mudiafrica01
gin couture
Founded in 2005 by sisters Ogwa Iweze and Ofure Adive, Dzyn Couture has become known as a go-to brand for bold and stylish African-inspired fashion. Known for its seamless fusion of Nigerian culture and contemporary aesthetics, Dzyn specializes in creating affordable luxury products for women.
Their collections feature vibrant prints and structured silhouettes that embody a colorful yet sophisticated design that inspires confidence and elegance for the modern woman. Dzyn continues to make waves in the fashion world at home and abroad, providing timeless and versatile pieces for fashion-conscious women.
IG: @dzynbabe
Ebewere Brown
Known for his luxurious African men’s attire, Ebewele Brown Oselhimen launched his brand in 2012 and has been captivating Abuja’s fashion elite ever since. Starting out in Benin City, Ebewere Brown relocated to Abuja, where his designs have become synonymous with quality craftsmanship and innovation in menswear.
His attention to detail and mastery in creating traditional kaftans and agbadas using unique fabrics has made his brand a favorite among media celebrities and influencers.
IG: @ebewelebrown
Click here to read the latest issue of Lost In Lagos Plus magazine now.
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