The Spring/Summer 2023 Trends to Know From Lagos Fashion Week

Lagos Fashion Week ran for four days at the end of October, bringing an array of new spring/summer 2023 collections from Nigerian designers as well as brands from across Africa.

The mood at the Federal Palace Hotel was energetic, with the latest collections shown on brightly lit runways with colorful backdrops. Down the runway came a variety of well-crafted looks, from sleek tailoring, sharp outerwear and monochrome separates to ethereal, flowing silhouettes and rainbow stripes. Designers such as Gozel Green, Fruché and Ghana’s Duaba Serwa showed updates in their signature styles while new classics were introduced by the likes of Tia Adeola, KADIJU and Emmy Kasbit.

It’s not too early to start looking ahead to your inventory for next summer and below, you can get ahead with our guide on the key trends to know for SS23.

All that glitters

From KADIJU’s ethereal fabrics to Emmy Kasbit’s shimmering separates, the runways were shining with sequins, paillettes and iridescent textures that are set to be commonplace during party season. Evoking starry nights and 1970s-style discos, the mood of the glittering pieces were sensual in a chic and modest way, with long sleeves and full lengths for a streamlined silhouette.
 

Sheer elegance

Lightweight, sheer fabrics are perfect for the warm months and tastefully revealing pieces were a focal point for designers this year. See-through fabrics of various shades were layered over one another at Odio Mimonet while Fruché’s draped tulle pieces have become a signature style.

Black is the new black

From the classic little black dress to head-to-toe ensembles that stand out, the coolest of shades is in for summer. Rendered in an array of textures including chiffon, silk tulle and lace, dresses, all-black ensembles were presented as blank canvasses to be brought to life with colorful accessories, glitzy jewelry and statement shoes.

Smart tailoring

Runway moments that presented crisp suits and smart separates with clean lines and sharp details showed that classic tailoring is still as timeless as ever. Bloke, Rick Dusi and Jermaine Bleu’s offered a fresh take on a familiar style, with collections that featured sleek suits in a rich color palette of metallics, blue and mint green.

Larger than life

Embellishments and finishing details are on the bigger side this season, thanks to three-dimensional shapes and oversized silhouettes that offer plenty of dramatic effect. At Duaba Serwa, the brand’s signature origami pleats were paired with voluminous sleeves while Desiree Iyamah and KADIJU accentuated their designs with excess materials twisted and folded on themselves.