As I type this I am still reminiscing the runway looks of Lagos fashion week 2025. The pieces were elevated and chic. There is something for everyone. So I decided to share with you what to wear in 2026 according to the run way of Lagos fashion week 2025 and touch a little on what not to wear in 2026.
Minimalism is gradually dying off the fashion radar. This I saw in the run way of the fashion seasons from New York fashion week to Lagos fashion week 2025. What to wear instead is minimalist looks with an edge. Yes, It may be in simple tones, neutral tones but it still says fashion when you see it. The neutral color tones are stylish and to compensate for the lack of color, they made such pieces with an edge.
From feathers that makes me loose sleep at night to fringes that is not so regular. Lagos fashion week 2025 also showcase what to expect in 2026. What the brands will be producing and why you need to your coins together for 2026 shopping now.\
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What not to wear in 2026; what to wear instead
If you didn’t attend the Lagos fashion week 2025, you missed out. Trust me, I had a blast as the show was rich in fashion, culture and encompasses Africa as whole. There were designers from other parts of Africa. It shows the collaboration that Lagos fashion week does to bring Africa to the forefront of fashion. And I have never been more proud to be African than now.
Below are what not to wear in 2025 and what to wear instead.
What not to wear: Minimalist; what to wear: Color blocking
The run way show of Lagos fashion week was filled with color and life. From unique color block to vibrant colors that says maximalist. Even the silk patterns by Eki was not so minimalist.
Is minimalist fashion dead? Am I glad that we have done away with it? Yes, the maximalist in me is shouting for joy as it is our time to go big or go home. Should minimalist jump on this trend? Of course yes, color block is not just vibrant colors. It can be a mix of two tones of the same color. Beige and brown or a contrast like black and white. So, everyone is welcome to join this trend.
What not to wear: Plunging necklines; What to wear: High necks
I love plunging neck lines. Especially cowl necks. This style of cut is my go to style. It is gives hoochie chick whenever I wear it. Even now that I am preggy, I don’t mind a little sass.
2026 fashion trends is all about high neck cuts for tops and dresses. From the runway of Lagos fashion week, you can see that high necks and ruffle styles are in. Most the dresses I saw has this high neck details which is super chic. However, I am not jumping on this trend as it doesn’t work with my personal style.
What not to wear in 2026: Flare dresses; What to wear: bubble hem dresses
If you are an avid reader, you know that I love bubble hem dresses. I recently wrote a blog post on how to wear bubble hem dresses like a fashion girl. Bubble hem is huge for 2026 and Lagos fashion week 2025 runway shows also confirms this. It is one of the hottest 2025 fashion trends that is still in for 2026.
Bubble hems tops, skirts or shorts, dresses are super cool. It is a cool girl way to step out. Everybody and their mama is into this trend. If you have not joined this moving trend, its time to hop on before the train will leave you behind.
What not to wear: Minimalist outfits; What to wear in 2026: Elevated minimalism- Fringes or feathers
In as much we say no to minimalism. If you still want to be a minimalist, by all means, do you. Personal style is personal for a reason. And you don’t need to jump on all the 2026 fashion trends.
However, from the runway of Lagos fashion week 2025, their were designs that were minimalist with an edge. The colors are neutral tones for the minimalist. Yet it is elevated and chic. You see details like feathers and fringes in neutral tone colors. You can still show up and show out as minimalist with a twist of an edge to your looks.
What not to wear: Sensual outfits; What to wear: Androgenous outfits
Okay I am not into sensual dressing except sheer pieces. Even my sheer pieces are always layered with other pieces to make it more modest for me. On the other hand, I am not a fan of androgenous looks either. Yet, the looks from Lagos fashion week 2025 makes want to shop men’s wear.
This look from Lagos fashion week is living rent free in my head. Plus if I need to do androgenous, why not go traditional. I am always wanted to slay Agbada but now I am sold on this look. This look gives femineity with an edge. And I am here for it.
Which of these 2026 fashion trends will you be jumping on? What will you be ditching in this list of what not to wear in 2026? Sound off in the comments below. Did you miss Lagos fashion week 2025? Don’t worry subscribe to their website Lagos fashion week to stay updated on the next one. Ciao for now.
