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Top 10 Fashion Designers In Nigeria You Need To Know
Nigeria has one of the most vibrant fashion industries in Africa, with talented designers creating unique styles that blend traditional fabrics with modern aesthetics. From red carpet outfits to everyday wear, these designers have gained international recognition for their creativity and craftsmanship.
If you love fashion or are looking for inspiration from the best in the industry, here are the top 10 fashion designers in Nigeria you need to know.
1. Deola Sagoe
The Queen of Haute Couture in Nigeria
Deola Sagoe is a pioneer in Nigeria’s fashion industry. She is known for her high-end couture designs that showcase African culture with a modern twist. Her use of traditional fabrics like Aso-Oke, combined with intricate embroidery, has made her a favorite among celebrities and high-profile clients.
Why You Should Know Her:
- First African to showcase at New York Fashion Week.
- Designed costumes for international movies.
- Dressed notable personalities, including Oprah Winfrey and Will Smith’s wife, Jada Pinkett Smith.
Her brand, House of Deola, continues to be a leader in African luxury fashion.
2. Lisa Folawiyo
The Queen of Ankara Fashion
Lisa Folawiyo is famous for transforming Ankara prints into luxury fashion pieces. She handcrafts unique designs with embellishments, making her brand, Jewel by Lisa, stand out globally.
Why You Should Know Her:
- Featured in Vogue, Elle, and Harper’s Bazaar.
- Worn by global stars like Lupita Nyong’o, Solange Knowles, and Thandie Newton.
- Won the African Fashion Awards in 2012.
Her ability to mix African prints with modern silhouettes has made her a trendsetter in African fashion.
3. Mai Atafo
The Master of Tailoring
Mai Atafo is a household name in Nigeria’s fashion industry. His brand, Atafo, is known for high-quality men’s and women’s suits, wedding dresses, and bespoke tailoring.
Why You Should Know Him:
- Created Nigeria’s first high-fashion bridal collection.
- His suits are worn by top celebrities and business executives.
- Formerly worked as a brand manager before switching to fashion.
If you need a perfectly tailored outfit, Mai Atafo is the designer to go to.
4. Lanre Da Silva Ajayi (LDA)
The Master of Vintage Fashion
Lanre Da Silva Ajayi is one of Nigeria’s most respected designers, known for her sophisticated vintage-inspired designs. Her pieces often feature lace, brocade, and intricate embroidery.
Why You Should Know Her:
- Featured in top fashion shows in Paris and Milan.
- Her brand has been recognized by international fashion publications.
- Worn by top Nigerian celebrities, first ladies, and business moguls.
Her timeless designs continue to redefine elegance in the Nigerian fashion scene.
5. Frank Oshodi
The Designer Behind Agbani Darego’s Miss World Gown
Frank Oshodi gained national fame when he designed the gown that Agbani Darego wore to win the Miss World 2001 crown. His brand, House of Bunor, specializes in bridal, pageant, and red carpet outfits.
Why You Should Know Him:
- Known for designing elegant and flowing gowns.
- Worked with top beauty pageants and models.
- Has been in the industry for over two decades.
His ability to create ethereal designs that highlight a woman’s beauty makes him one of Nigeria’s top designers.
6. Zizi Cardow
Promoting African Prints Globally
Zizi Cardow is a strong advocate for promoting African fashion on the global stage. Her designs, which heavily feature Nigerian prints, have been showcased in major fashion capitals.
Why You Should Know Her:
- Won multiple awards for promoting African fashion.
- Featured in international fashion magazines.
- Has styled Nigerian celebrities and politicians.
Her brand, Zizi Industrial Clothing, has become a symbol of African pride and creativity.
7. Tiffany Amber (Folake Coker)
Nigeria’s First Global Fashion Brand
Folake Coker is the founder of Tiffany Amber, a luxury fashion brand known for its stylish and sophisticated women’s wear.
Why You Should Know Her:
- First African designer to showcase twice at New York Fashion Week.
- Featured in Forbes and other top fashion publications.
- Dresses Nigerian first ladies and celebrities.
Her brand remains a leader in luxury African fashion.
8. Toju Foyeh
Red Carpet and Bridal Fashion Guru
Toju Foyeh is one of the youngest top designers in Nigeria, but her impact on the fashion industry is undeniable. She specializes in elegant bridal gowns and red carpet dresses.
Why You Should Know Her:
- Popular among Nigerian brides.
- Has styled celebrities for major award shows.
- Her designs blend elegance with modern trends.
If you’re looking for a glamorous and feminine fashion statement, Toju Foyeh is the designer to check out.
9. Yomi Casual
Redefining African Menswear
Yomi Casual, the younger brother of comedian AY Makun, is a top menswear designer in Nigeria. His designs blend African prints with modern tailoring.
Why You Should Know Him:
- His brand is loved by Nigerian male celebrities.
- Popularized trendy Agbada styles.
- Has won multiple awards for his work in men’s fashion.
Yomi Casual’s bold designs have made African menswear more stylish and contemporary.
10. Andrea Iyamah
The Swimwear and Resort Wear Expert
Andrea Iyamah is a Nigerian-Canadian designer known for her unique swimwear and resort wear. Her designs are bold, colorful, and inspired by African culture.
Why You Should Know Her:
- Her swimwear brand is worn by Hollywood celebrities.
- Featured in top magazines like Vogue and Elle.
- Expanded into bridal and ready-to-wear fashion.
Her brand, Andrea Iyamah, is putting African-inspired swimwear on the global map.
Conclusion
Nigeria’s fashion industry is booming, thanks to these creative designers who continue to push boundaries. Whether you’re looking for traditional outfits, luxury couture, or trendy casual wear, these designers have something unique to offer.
If you’re a fashion lover, following these designers will keep you inspired by the latest trends and styles from Nigeria. Who is your favorite Nigerian designer? Let us know in the comments!