It’s been one incredibly stylish year in Nigeria. This year, we saw a lot of celebrities who hitherto, didn’t particularly care about fashion actually step up their games. 2017 wasn’t business as usual, everyone actually put in work to make sure they stand out or at the very least, aren’t left behind.
And what this meant for our Best Dressed List was, it took more time than it normally would to choose 10 out of the very stylish lot. But with the help of our followers on social media and a select group of industry experts, we were able to select 10 stars whose styles shone brightest and stood them out from their peers.
Take a look.
1. Somkele Idhalama
Leading the pack this year is the very beautiful actress, Somkele Idhalama. The mother of one is in a class of her own. There is nobody quite like her, and this uniqueness trails down to her fashion choices. This year, the award-winning actress and sister to fashion designer Andreah Iyamah kept us glued to her Instagram page in anticipation of her next look. And for every time a red carpet event was messed up by ridiculous fashion, we could always count on Somkele to save the day.
2. Toke Makinwa
The queen of doing the most, Toke Makinwa has had an amazing year and her style throughout the year is testament to that. Whether she was gracing a red carpet, going out for drinks with her girls, or jet-setting, the media personality and bestselling author made sure she was never found wanting.
3. Rita Dominic
Over the years, Rita has consistently blessed us with stellar looks and this year wasn’t any different. We saw her wear a lot of Lanre DaSilva Ajayi this year and kill it every single time. At 42, Ree Dee is the star every other star aspires to be. Pure class!
4. Jennifer Oseh
There are the ones who follow trends and there are the ones who create them. Jennifer Oseh falls under the latter. A risk taker, it doesn’t get bolder or more fierce than the model, stylist and video vixen popularly known as The Lady Vhodka.
5. Beverly Naya
Consistent slayage topped off with the right amount of sass and sexiness, Beverly didn’t have a single bad look this year. The Sisiano faux Agbada and hat look she wore to the premiere of My Wife & I in August will go down in history as one of the dopest looks ever!
6. Ini Dima-Okojie
With a snatched waist and looks executed to a T, Ini boldly wrote and cemented her name in the fashion walk of fame in 2017. She was definitely taking no prisoners this year and we can’t wait to see what she has for us in the coming year.
7. Mimi Onalaja
Mimi served looks this year. And it didn’t matter whether it was a high-end brand like Lanre DaSilva Ajayi or an affordable brand like The 5K Shop, or even her go-to-designer, Fablane By Derin, Mimi kept it classy and clean, very!
8. Genevieve Nnaji
We didn’t see a lot of the style queen this year but she made sure that every one of the few appearances she made counted. At the LFDW wearing Bridget Awosika, at TIFF wearing Maki Oh, Genny showed us she is undefeated.
9. Stephanie Coker
Stephanie wasn’t taking chances this year. She single-handedly redefined asoebi in 2017 with the help of designer Style Temple, gave us a classic on her wedding day and made excellent sartorial choices during her The Voice Nigeria outing.
10. Bolanle Olukanni
Coming in at number 10 is Bolanle Olukanni who kept it pretty and chic all year round. Comfort seemed to be her key word and she pulled it off neatly.
Nigerian actress Nancy Isime recently stole the hearts of audiences with a stunning cowrie-themed outfit. The look celebrated a rich cultural tradition, incorporating the beautiful shells in a way that was both modern and elegant.
The look, perfectly suited for a glamorous event, showcased Isime’s fashion sense and appreciation for African heritage.
In a series of heartwarming photos, Nancy Isime reminded Nigerians that she was born for the spotlight. In one of the pictures, she was seen holding a horse by the face. The pose further accentuated the impact of the cowrie details. In another photo, she is seen standing close to the waves on the shores of a beach.
The outfit was a long, straight-cut. white gown beaded with cowries in the most detailed manner, which flattered her figure and provided a perfect canvas for the shimmering cowrie accents. For accessories, she had on a cowrie beaded bangle on both of her wrists. She topped her look with a pair of cowrie-themed stud earrings and a cowrie-beaded traditional cap.
The cowrie embellishments were tastefully woven throughout the design, adding a touch of shimmer and texture. The overall effect was one of sophistication with a subtle nod to heritage.
Cowrie shells have long held significance in various African cultures, symbolizing wealth, prosperity, and spiritual connection. Isime’s outfit showcased this heritage, with cowries incorporated throughout the design. The cowrie details were both subtle and striking, featuring delicate embellishments and shimmering cowrie-patterned fabric.
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With her signature confidence and radiant smile, she embodied the essence of effortless sophistication. Nancy Isime wasn’t just wearing a cowrie-themed outfit; her clothing was a celebration of African heritage, infused with modern flair.
This isn’t the first time Nancy Isime has impressed fans with her fashion choices. The talented actress is known for her ability to rock a variety of styles, always with confidence and flair. This latest ensemble is a perfect example of her ability to blend cultural pride with contemporary style. She is an inspiration to fans and fellow fashion enthusiasts.
Music and fashion have always been BFFs. From Michael Jackson’s iconic sequined glove to the Supremes’ signature hairstyles, singers have influenced what we wear for decades. Today’s stars are no different. Beyoncé’s sleek silver looks in “Renaissance” and Billie Eilish’s baggy streetwear revolution are just a few examples.
But it’s not just about rocking a cool style on stage. Many musicians are now full-fledged fashion players. Superstars like Pharrell, Rihanna, and Kanye West have partnered with major brands, blurring the lines between music and fashion even further.
The past year has been a whirlwind of music and fashion collaborations. Take Pharrell Williams, for example. In February 2023, Louis Vuitton named him their new men’s creative director, following the legacy of Virgil Abloh. Just a few months later, Pharrell debuted his first collection at Paris Men’s Fashion Week, complete with a show-stopping performance alongside Jay-Z.
Just months after Pharrell Williams launched his debut menswear collection for Louis Vuitton in October 2023, Puma tapped A$AP Rocky as creative director for their motorsport category. This news came hot on the heels of Rihanna, Rocky’s long-term partner and music icon, rejoining Puma in September 2023. Rihanna returned as the face of the brand’s new “Avanti” sneaker after a hiatus from her previous role as creative director for Puma’s Fenty label.
Fashion Week isn’t just for models! It’s a star-studded event that attracts celebrities from all walks of life, including the music industry. From legendary artists like Madonna to dancing queens like Jennifer Lopez, many musicians have taken the plunge and walked the Fashion Week runway themselves. Here’s a list of some of them:
1. Beyonce on the Fashion Week runway
New York Fashion Week buzzed with purpose on September 16th, 2005. Beyoncé Knowles strutted down the runway at the “Fashion for Relief” charity event. This star-studded show wasn’t just about showcasing the latest trends; it was a powerful act of compassion. Every step Beyoncé took raised money to help victims of Hurricane Katrina, the devastating storm that had struck weeks earlier. The energy in Bryant Park crackled with a mix of fashion excitement and heartfelt support for those affected by the disaster.
2. Rihanna
On September 27th, 2007, the world of fashion witnessed a showstopper at Milan Fashion Week. Music royalty Rihanna took the Dsquared2 runway by storm, effortlessly strutting her stuff in a head-to-toe black ensemble. This appearance was part of the brand’s Spring/Summer 2008 collection, adding some glamour and star power to the event.
3. Miley Cyrus on the Fashion Week runway
Pop star Miley Cyrus wasn’t just sitting in the front row at New York Fashion Week in February 2020. The “Flowers” singer turned heads as she strutted down the runway at Marc Jacobs’ Fall 2020 show. This surprise appearance capped off New York Fashion Week in high style. Cyrus rocked a daring black bra top and wide-legged trousers, showcasing her toned abs. Long black gloves and a zebra print jacket added an edgy touch to the monochrome look. The crowd roared as she confidently owned the runway.
4. Dua Lipa
Pop star Dua Lipa wasn’t just singing hits in 2021; she was rocking the runway too! The chart-topping singer behind hits like “Levitating” and “New Rules” stunned the runway at Milan Fashion Week. Dressed in head-to-toe pink, she strutted for the prestigious fashion house “Versace” on September 24th, 2021. This marked Lipa’s modeling debut for the Spring/Summer 2022 collection, adding another impressive achievement to her already booming career. The “Don’t Start Now” singer stole the spotlight, proving she’s a force to be reckoned with in music and fashion.
5. Madonna
The 1994 Paris Fashion Week was a pop culture spectacle. Madonna, the queen of pop herself, strutted down the fashion week runway at the Jean Paul Gaultier Spring/Summer 1995 show, dazzling the crowd in a shimmering gold ensemble. Adding to the unexpected twist, a poodle puppy trotted playfully by her side, stealing hearts and adding a playful and peculiar vibe to the already unforgettable moment.
6. Machine Gun Kelly
Milan Men’s Fashion Week turned heads in January 2022 when Grammy-nominated musician Machine Gun Kelly strutted down the runway for Dolce & Gabbana’s Fall/Winter 2022-2023 collection. Ditching his usual edgy look, Kelly embraced a dazzling ensemble that stole the show. This time, Machine Gun Kelly opted for an all-out sparkle outfit that perfectly captured his signature genre-bending style.
7. Sam Smith on the Fashion Week runway
Sam Smith, who is a British singer and songwriter known for his soulful voice and emotional lyrics, made an appearance at the Andreas Kronthaler for Vivienne Westwood Womenswear Fall/Winter 2024-2025 show during the Paris Fashion Week on March 2, 2024. The show featured a mix of avant-garde and gothic designs, and Sam Smith’s outfit was no exception. He donned a black leather jacket with silver studs, combined with a silk black shirt, and black leather pants. He also wore chunky boots and a black hat, which added to the gothic vibe. The outfit was completed with silver necklaces and rings.
8. Jennifer Lopez
Jennifer Lopez took fans on a trip down memory lane at Milan Fashion Week! On September 20th, 2019, the singer and actress who brought us the empowering anthem “This Is Me… Now” wowed the crowd at the Versace Spring/Summer 2020 show. Channeling her iconic green Versace dress from the 2000 Grammy Awards, Lopez strutted down the runway with confidence and grace, proving that age is just a number. This epic moment wasn’t just a walk down the catwalk; it was a celebration of a timeless fashion statement.
Are you looking for inspiration for a fashionable suit for your upcoming wedding, graduation, or any special event? Many closets likely hold a collection of similar-looking black suits. While classic, they often lack individuality.
Colman Domingo emerged as a true standout in men’s fashion during recent Hollywood award seasons. His stylists, Wayman and Micah, played a significant role in crafting his revolutionary and eye-catching looks.
This article provides a springboard for exploring unique suit ideas inspired by Domingo’s bold and trend-setting approach.
1. Ditch black for white
While black remains a traditional suit colour, it might not always be the most exciting choice. Bone white offers a fresh alternative, possessing a touch of angelic elegance compared to stark white.
Domingo’s suit also incorporates interesting details such as double lapels and a strategic choice to forgo a necktie. These elements contribute to a unique and fashionable look.
By observing these aspects of Domingo’s attire, you can gain inspiration for creating your own personal style.
2. Take black to another level
While previous statements might have downplayed black suits, this specific Louis Vuitton piece demonstrates its continued potential. The true impact lies beyond just the colour. This custom-made suit boasts a unique Nehru collar, adding a touch of personality.
Domingo’s choice of accessories further elevates the look. The lapel pin adds a subtle detail, while the simple shoes complement the overall style without distracting from the suit itself.
3. Mellow with yellow
Bold-coloured suits, like mustard yellow, can be a striking choice. Colman Domingo’s appearance in a Valentino Haute Couture mustard suit garnered significant attention. Every element of the outfit complemented each other perfectly.
The textured fabric, the combination of the pale blue shirt with the mustard suit, and the necklace all contributed to a cohesive and visually appealing look.
Additionally, the gold Christian Louboutin shoes, Bulgari necklace, and Omega wristwatch added a touch of luxury and refinement.
4. The luxurious tweed
Tweed offers a luxurious and sophisticated alternative to commonly used suit fabrics. This material elevates the wearer’s look, often creating an impression of wealth and status.
Notice the fully buttoned jacket he wore instead of the more contemporary styles with one or two buttons. This classic detail contributes to the overall elegance of the tweed suit.
5. Turtleneck? Yeah, with a jacket
This look demonstrates the versatility of a turtleneck as an alternative to a traditional dress shirt. The linen fabric choice offers breathability and eliminates the need for buttons.
Black shoes with brown tassels complement the outfit without overwhelming it with excessive brown tones. Remember, proper fit is crucial—neither too constricting nor too baggy.
A common pitfall is selecting shoes that clash with the suit. Opt for classic options like oxfords or derby shoes in black or a colour matching the suit. Brown shoes should be a well-considered choice; typically, black or matching the suit is preferable.