October-slash-November for us in Nigeria always has a few options. Go to fashion week, work at fashion week, watch fashion week on tv/social media.
Fashion week isn’t just for enthusiasts or the altes. It is not just for style bloggers, fashion wannabes or the experts. It is more like a cultural thing. A season of exposure. A lot happens in fashion week that puts Nigeria on the map. I mean the likes of Vogue come all the way to watch and participate. In summary, it’s a huge deal!
If it is your first time at fashion week, it may be a tad bit overwhelming. What to wear or what not to wear. How to look extra fashionable without looking like a joke. What is new, what is on-trend and what is not. The best part is that you may not even need to go purchase new pieces. You can dig into your wardrobe and pull out those sartorial pieces you have not been able to wear.
I’ll give you tips on “fashion week” fashion. Yup! That is definitely a thing.
Wear bold Colours
This is probably the easiest way to make a statement. Pull out the neons and burgundy’s and go wild. You can even go further and mix different bold colours together.
Mix Print Pants
Speaking of mixing, how about trying on a few prints? We are African, and Ankara is basically our uniform and what we are known for. You can pair different types of prints together either in a cohesive or somewhat haphazard way to form a bomb outfit.
You can mix tie-dye with animal prints. The options are endless.
Be Comfortable
If you don’t know fashion week, I’ll tell you now that it can be a madhouse. Come dressed to impress. But also be comfortable. You’ll be walking around a lot, posing to take photos for tons of photographers and networking with people. That being said, you don’t want to be caught on 12-inch heels. This is fashion week. Not the MET gala.
Stack Those Accessories
Nothing screams statements like some chunky accessories. Try adding those to your “barely there” outfits to give them extra oomph. Chunky earrings, bracelets and neckpieces. Even headgear can be used to add a fashionable twist to your overall get up.
Go Big or Go Home
Literally! Try adding large disproportionate pieces to your overall outfit. It could be an oversized blazer or an oversized afro. Whichever way, you’re sure to stand out. You can cinch your oversized blazers at the waist for a cuter, more girly look.
Coordinate With Your Friends
What’s better than going for fashion week? Going with all your stylish friends. You all can be pretty extra with this and wear the same colour and print pattern. Trust me, you will be noticed.
All in all, make sure you have fun, take loads of pictures and take down notes. Because the next fashion season rides heavily on the present fashion show you’re about to attend.