I’m here again to jolt you from your fashion slumber! Y’all know there are Nigerian-owned brands that scream class which has got to be represented in your wardrobe, right? Well, if you didn’t, I’m always here to give you the juicy scoop. Why don’t we get started already?
1. Lady Biba
Folks making way for the Boss Chick as she confidently struts along are the results you get in a Lady Biba outfit. Gone are those days where work wears had to be the same boring combinations of suits, blazers, flats, and monotonous designs!
Launched in 2013 by award-winning fashion icon, Bisola Adeniyi, Lady Biba has completely revolutionized the corporate woman with their collections showcasing trendy and comfortable workwear. Lady bosses in the building, you can feed your eyes with more stylish, modern, affordable, and unique designs at www.ladybiba.com
2. Lanre Da Silva Ajayi
The Lanre Da SilvaAjayi brand, popularly known as LDA, was founded in 2005. They have been a force in the fashion scene for a long time now, with signature designs and accessories, using a remarkable combination of African patterns, prints, and traditional fabrics.
One thing that stands out for this brand is their reference to the 1940s and 1800s in their pieces, evoking classical African heritage and yet presenting a modern, contemporary appeal.
The beautiful founder, who shares the same name as the brand, has won many local and international awards of excellence for her designs. Think LDA each time you see a timeless, sophisticated piece that stands out! Their collections can be seen on their website www.lanredasilvaajayi.com and official Instagram handle: @lanredasilvaajayi.
3. Weiz Dhurm Franklyn
Established by the exceptionally creative Wisdom Chidiebube Anaba, Weiz Dhurm Franklyn is a pacesetter when it comes to elegance and pulling of a marriage between African heritage and modern twists in clothing designs.
It is no surprise that the brand’s collections and specially-crafted designs have clinched numerous awards, and make loud statements wherever they are sighted. You can check out www.weizdhurmfranklyn.com and their official Instagram page (@weizdhurmfranklyn) for the amazing collections on display.
4. BB Artistry
Founded by Blessing Bashir, a lawyer, fashion entrepreneur, and alumni of Fashion Futures, BB Artistry is a brand born out of the need to help people look their finest. This brand has got swag and chic designs that cater to diverse fashion needs, no matter the occasion.
Be it floral, patterned, sequinned, mini, maxi, traditional…you name it and they have got you covered! The versatility of their pieces stands out, and this is why the brand absolutely had to make it to this list. Don’t just take my word for it; check it out for more eye-catchy and mouth-watering designs!
5. Magnetic Elegance
Olakitan Olubi is the beautiful face behind Magnetic Elegance, a brand growing pretty fast while garnering approving fashion ratings and client reviews. The brand, launched in 2014, caters to luxury couture bridal and custom dresses and is quite the rave among the elites in Lagos and beyond.
If you are looking to be the star of whatever occasion you’re attending, you should walk into their store for a custom bespoke dress that is sure to turn heads in your direction. You can check out her page on Instagram via @magneticelegance for more of her amazing designs!
6. Irawo Studio (formerly House of Irawo)
Jointly founded by a family of phenomenal women (Abby Ikomi and her three daughters, Anire, Dola, and Ama) with a passion for distinctive clothing, the fierce brand produces the best of Afro-fusion womenswear, allowing you to shine in a class of your own.
The fashion pieces crafted by Irawo Studio are fashioned with unique textures and colours, communicating the strength and pride of the African woman. All their wears are created with materials sourced from African suppliers. For more unique pieces made with African prints and fabrics, you should check out their official website: www.irawostudio.com.
7. 2207bytbally/Tbally Couture
Nigerian-born award-winning designer and style icon, Tolu Bally launched the brand in November 2016 to push fashion boundaries to colourful heights.
Highly patronized by celebrities and public figures, the brand is perfect for strong, confident, and active women who need versatile wears to help keep up with their busy schedules. For the everyday woman, this brand is the best fit for you. You can check out the brand’s official website: www.2207bytbally.com or her Instagram account: @tolubally for more design options.
Well, there you have it in no particular order. Notable honourable mentions include brands like Mide (Instagram: @midebymide) and DNA (Instagram: @dna_byiconicinvanity).
I have to give it to Nigerian fashion designers! They have got everything, with a dash of extra spicy to cover all your fashion needs. If your fashion goal is pressing necks and stepping on toes (like mine is), then you need to check out these brands asap and slay as the queen that you know you are!