Nigeria’s fashion industry is fast-growing and has been making waves internationally. With a rich cultural heritage, a diverse population, and a strong entrepreneurial spirit, Nigerian fashion designers
are making their mark on the global fashion industry. In this article, we will highlight some of the Nigerian fashion designers who are making waves internationally.
Lisa Folawiyo
Lisa Folawiyo is the founder of Jewel by Lisa, a luxury fashion brand that blends traditional African fabrics with modern tailoring techniques. Her designs have been worn by the likes of Lupita Nyong’o, Thandie Newton, and Solange Knowles. Furthermore, she has showcased her work at fashion shows in New York, London, and Paris.
Maki Oh
Maki Oh is a fashion label founded by Amaka Osakwe. The brand has been worn by Beyoncé, Rihanna, and Michelle Obama. The label is known for its use of traditional African fabrics, and its designs are a fusion of African heritage and also contemporary style.
Adebayo Oke-Lawal
Adebayo Oke-Lawal is the founder of Orange Culture, a gender-fluid fashion brand that is gaining international recognition. The brand has been featured in Vogue, Elle, and The New York Times. Orange Culture’s designs are particularly known for their bold prints and bright colours.
Kenneth Ize
Kenneth Ize is a Nigerian fashion designer who is bringing traditional Nigerian fabrics to the global fashion industry. His designs markedly feature handwoven Nigerian fabrics such as Aso-oke and Adire. Ize’s work has been showcased at the Paris Fashion Week and has also been worn by Naomi Campbell and Lupita Nyong’o.
Andrea Iyamah
Andrea Iyamah is a Nigerian fashion designer who specializes in swimwear and resort wear. Her designs are known for their bold prints and vibrant colours. Similarly, Iyamah’s work has been featured in Vogue, Elle, and Sports Illustrated.
Deola Sagoe
Deola Sagoe is a veteran Nigerian fashion designer who has been in the industry for over 25 years. Her designs have been worn by the likes of Oprah Winfrey and Will Smith. Sagoe’s designs are known significantly for their use of African prints and embellishments.
Lanre Da Silva Ajayi
Lanre Da Silva Ajayi is a Nigerian fashion designer who has been in the industry for over a decade. Her designs feature a fusion of African prints and western silhouettes. Ajayi’s work has also been featured in Elle, Vogue, and Marie Claire.
Mai Atafo
Mai Atafo is a Nigerian bespoke tailor and designer. He is known for his attention to detail and his ability to create elegant and sophisticated designs. His clients also include high-profile celebrities and politicians. Furthermore, his work has been showcased at various fashion shows across the world.
Ituen Basi
Ituen Basi is a Nigerian fashion designer who is known for her use of traditional African fabrics such as Ankara and Adire. Her designs feature bold prints and vibrant colours, and she has showcased her work at major fashion events such as the Arise Fashion Week in Lagos and the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in Johannesburg.
Nigerian fashion designers are gaining recognition on the global fashion stage. With their use of traditional African fabrics, vibrant colours, and bold prints, Nigerian fashion designers are making a significant impact on the international fashion industry. These designers are putting Nigerian fashion on the map and paving the way for the next generation of Nigerian fashion designers.
