As the ancient proverb [probably] goes, it’s always fashion week somewhere, and this weekend, it was the turn of Lagos, Nigeria to throw its biannual event for SS24. Spanning across four days, Lagos Fashion Week drew crowds not just from Africa, but across the globe. It’s no real surprise: in just a few short years, Lagos has marked itself as a true fashion city, where design on the runway is just as important as what’s going on in the streets. 

For a new generation of fashion fans, clothing is an important medium when it comes to self-expression, and now, brands are paying big attention to the younger demographic, and cultivating community spirit in authentic ways. On the catwalk, designers like Geto, Cute Saint, and Abigail Ajobi are names to know, with each turning out youthful collections which speaks to the energy and eclecticism that underpins Nigerian fashion. 

Outside the shows, things were just as inspiring, as the city’s young people using clothing as a way to push across their messages. There was a plethora of ripped, ravaged denim looks, which clashed with more formal, almost business looks – ties were hot for the SS24 season, with attendees matching them with oversized shirts, or otherwise playing with proportion by pairing them with snatched corsets and varsity shorts.

Knitwear came trashed and trailing threads, and gender roles… Well, what are those? DIY style was huge too, with plenty of looks thrifted in secondhand stores, markets, and from vintage dealers. These kids are nothing if not sustainable. 

Below, Dazed speaks to some of the stylish attendees on the streets of Lagos about their style icons, using clothes to assert themselves, and what excites them most about Nigerian fashion. 

OJUROMI RACHEL

What would you say your biggest style inspiration is, and what inspired your outfit for fashion week?

My biggest style inspiration is my younger self and for Fashion Week I knew I wanted to wear a blazer because they’re one of my favorite clothing items.

When would you say your fashion awakening began?

I would say I have been fashion-wise since I was 14. I just started wearing anything that made me comfortable.

What’s your favorite thing about Fashion Week in Lagos? 

The creative freedom, seeing people wear whatever they want is so beautiful and it reminds me that I’m not the only “weird” person out there.

Who are your favorite designers showcasing this season?

My favorite designers are Kadiju, Ugo Monye, and LFJ.

Favorite fashion item or accessories?

Give me a well-tailored suit or blazer.

VICTOR EMMANUEL

What would you say your biggest style inspiration is, and what inspired your outfit for fashion week?

My most considerable style inspiration would be societal issues, things like gender norms, and discussions around masculinity, I try to use my style to push these kinds of conversations. For persons, my inspiration stems from designers like Rickey Thompson, Bretman Rock, and Beyonce. My outfit took approximately a month to put together and It is a nod to British designer Thom Browne.

When would you say your fashion awakening began?

My fashion awakening began with I came to terms with the fact that I am queer, it started around the time I came out and I started seeing fashion as a tool to express myself.

What’s your favorite thing about Fashion Week in Lagos?

My favorite thing about attending Fashion Week in Lagos is that I get to meet other creatives in the city while also networking. I also always look forward to the designers and their shows and new collections. As a stylist, I look forward to seeing pieces from the runway show I can style people in. 

Who are your favorite designers showcasing this season?

My favorite African designers showcasing this season are Oshobor and Orange Culture.

Favorite fashion item or accessories?

My favorite fashion accessories are boot heels.

SUCCESS CARTER

What would you say your biggest style inspiration is, and what inspired your outfit for fashion week?

My biggest style inspiration would be maximalism and experimental fashion, anything that’s out there, that’s not normal inspires me. I am wearing a Nigerian brand called JUST ICON. For my inspiration for this year’s fit at LFW, I wanted to project royalness and regalness, because at previous Fashion Weeks, I have played with coluors, but this year I wanted to do something dark but still royal.

When would you say your fashion awakening began?

My fashion awakening began during my university days. 

What’s your favorite thing about Fashion Week in Lagos?

My favorite thing about attending fashion week would be the bizzare fashion, I always look forward to that.

Who are your favorite designers showcasing this season?

My favorite designer showcasing this season is Studio.Imo, and Atafo.

Favorite fashion item or accessories?

Sunglasses.

HARRY AGORO

What would you say your biggest style inspiration is, and what inspired your outfit for fashion week?

My biggest style inspiration would be my environment. My outfit was inspired by a movie I was watching a while ago. 

When would you say your fashion awakening began?

My fashion awakening began in 2018.

What’s your favorite thing about Fashion Week in Lagos?

My favourite thing about attending fashion week in Lagos is getting to experience the street-style looks.

Who are your favorite designers showcasing this season?

They are Atafo, Geto, and TJWHO.

Favorite fashion item or accessories?

My shoes.

KENE KINGSLEY

What would you say your biggest style inspiration is, and what inspired your outfit for fashion week?

Pharrell Williams is one of my biggest style inspirations, and I love the fact that he pushes the boundaries while trying to be their best selves. My outfit took me about six months to put together, as much as I love keeping my style within my comfort zone, I wanted to change that too. I wanted to try something fluid and something that has movement, so I came up with a fringe coat to elevate my outfit.

When would you say your fashion awakening began?

Growing up, I have always been a creative person and I had to continue to express my creativity through fashion. I think my fashion awakening began in 2015, this was the time when I discovered what I could do more with fashion.

What’s your favorite thing about Fashion Week in Lagos?

The street style is one of my favorite things about attending fashion week. I have been attending FW for about five years now and each year I am always inspired by how people express themselves, with the way they look and their creativity. It is very refreshing and interesting to see every year.

Who are your favorite designers showcasing this season?

I have a few favorites this season like Ugo Monye and Pettre Taylor. 

Favorite fashion item or accessories?

Watches and bracelets are my favorite accessories.