Nigerian Afrobeats superstar and Grammy-nominated artist Davido made a surprise appearance at the Lagos Fashion Week on Thursday, thrilling attendees as he took to the runway.
Davido showcased an intricate embroidered kimono created by renowned menswear designer Ugo Monye, adding a burst of excitement and star power to the event, which featured over 60 designers from across Africa.
Film producer and content creator Adaeze Cybil Mokaeze expressed her admiration for the work on display, praising the designers’ creativity and innovation. “They can take all the flowers, take all the coins,” she said, describing the show as “a lot of relatable fashion, a lot of great use of colour and designs and just the general extra-ness that is the African fashion.” Like many attendees, she added that Davido’s presence was “the icing on the cake, just perfect.”
Stephen Daniel, a fashion and lifestyle content creator, also highlighted the inclusivity of this year’s event. “We have plus-size models, we have people of all different colours and sizes. And the highest point for me was Davido. So yeah, it’s very inclusive. I like that,” he shared, underscoring the event’s commitment to representing a diverse range of styles and bodies.
Lagos Fashion Week, launched in 2011, has grown into one of Africa’s largest fashion events, drawing designers, buyers, and media from around the world. Alongside runway shows, the week includes panel discussions on sustainable fashion, marketing, and opportunities for African fashion entrepreneurs, showcasing styles that range from avant-garde to traditional and functional to luxurious.
Reflecting on the evolving quality and variety of African fashion, Ivy Kakaiiiza, a business development manager, noted the improvement in the craftsmanship and diversity presented this year. “I think the brands are getting better, the quality of work is getting better, the variation is getting better,” she said, adding her hope to see more women designers showcased in the future.
The Lagos Fashion Week continues at the Federal Palace Hotel in Victoria Island, bringing the city alive with creativity and culture until Sunday.
