Okay guys, today I dug deep into what’s popping in Nigerian women’s fashion right now. Woke up thinking about my cousin’s wedding next month in Lagos and realized my outfits were tired as hell. Straight up panic mode. Grabbed my coffee and did the work.
Starting the Hunt
First thing, I hit up Nigerian style influencers on Instagram hard. Scrolled for hours until my thumb went numb. Noticed everyone and their grandma wearing these puffy sleeve gowns with crazy patterns – Ankara prints mixed with lace everywhere. Took screenshots till my phone storage cried.
Chatting with Real People
Texted three friends back home in Port Harcourt. Asked straight up: “What you wearing THIS WEEK?” All three mentioned the same thing – cowry shell accessories. Not just necklaces but on bags, shoes, even braided into hair! One sent me pics of her sis going to church rocking cowry shell earrings big enough to use as coasters. Wild.
Trying Stuff Myself
Went downtown to Nigerian fabric shops. Sales lady practically shoved this shiny “Crystal Brocade” material in my face saying “This one is burning markets o!”. Touched it – scratchy like a cheap rug but the glitter? Chef’s kiss. Bought 2 yards just to test.
- Biggest trend: Shorts under dresses? Like formal gowns with bike shorts sticking out the bottom. Wouldn’t believe it but saw 6 women rocking it at market.
- Color winner: Mustard yellow and dusty pink combos. Like a sunset threw up on dresses.
- Shoes shocker: Platform slippers! Not even fancy ones – the rubber bathroom kind but with 4 inch soles.
What Didn’t Work
Tried styling the crystal brocade into a top. Looked in mirror – swore I saw a 90s couch cushion staring back. My tailor straight laughed at my attempt. “Aunty, this fabric only works for big designers!” Back to screenshots it is.
Final Verdict
Nigerian fashion right now is LOUD and proud. Not for shy people. If you’re not wearing at least two trending items together, are you even trying? The cowry shells and short-under-dress things might look crazy to outsiders but trust me – flyest women are already doing it. My cousin’s wedding fit? Ordered a puffy sleeve dress with bike shorts lining. Bold moves only.
