Beauty trends ruled the runways at Moscow Fashion Week. TikTok girlies have been raving about all the looks: the crying girl aesthetic, the sunburnt look, and even the clean girl aesthetic. Of course, the runways picked up on these trends, with different designers showcasing these looks on their runways. These beauty trends will continue to dominate in the coming year because of their fun and easy-going nature. Makeup is so 2014 again, a fun, messy and adventurous experience.  Here are all the top beauty trends I saw at Moscow Fashion Week.  The crying girl aesthetic     Have you ever cried yourself to a stupor, looked in the mirror and realised you look a little hot like that? Puffy red eyes, flushed cheeks and nose, you look alive. You’re not the only one who thinks so. The TikTok girlies have been recreating the crying girl aesthetic with makeup so much so that it made it to the runways. The models had a haunted but vulnerable look with this appearance. It’s also rather easy to recreate. Simply smudge some reddish eyeliner underneath your eyes over your nose, cheeks and even temples. Try not to be too coordinated with it, crying is messy after all.  White or pastel eyes       Sometime in 2012, coloured mascara was all the rave, thanks to the Stella McCartney FW13 Paris Fashion Week runway. Now, the runways are taking the shades up several notches with bright and pastel-coloured mascara. And it’s even more fun when the eyeliner matches the mascara.  Clown Makeup     There’s nothing new about clown makeup, it’s been a runway staple and might not be leaving anytime soon.  Go for exaggerated blushes in cartoonish shapes across the face as well as thin or non-existent brows. You can also play with exaggerated lashes to bring out the simple but fun part of clown makeup.  Prominent Lips       From bright reds to deep purples, prominent lips took centre stage on the runways. It was the focal point of many looks, muting other features and going for well-defined, brightly coloured lips that evoke an air of power and sophistication. It’s yet another easy trend to get behind and the easiest way to look polished.  Clean-girl aesthetic         Welcome to clean-girl Fashion Week aka Moscow Fashion Week. So many runways featured the clean girl looks, some of it complimenting the clothes showcased while others seemed out of place and frankly lacking creativity. It’s clear from this mixed reaction that there is a way to handle the clean-girl look. It calls for a holistic clean appearance, with tailored, monochrome pieces but with a fun twist that keeps the air of sophistication that you’re gunning for. For extra pizzaz, pull your hair back from your face and let all the angles shine. Bold to smokey eyes       For more bold beauty, the eyes have it! Bold eyeliner was a repeat offender bringing all the focus to the eyes. In place of sharp eyeliner (very queen of Egypt) were dark smokey eyes in shades of copper, brown and black. If you’re going for an intense look, this is the perfect makeup choice for you! Curly hair       Anytime a curly-haired woman strutted down the runway, the crowd would buzz, a consensus hum of approval. These models were the highlight of every runway they walked, their curly hair billowing behind them giving the looks a touch of power and fun. It’s a look that says I am here and I’m not leaving anytime soon! These trends left us breathless, panting for more. What a time to be alive, revisiting old trends, raising new ones and executing with flourish and grace. Beauty will continue to evolve but many principles will remain, like prominent lips and bold eyeliner, etched forever in the sands of time – or skin. This is your sign to try something new while you keep with your signature look, you never know how much you might love it!

Lagos, the city that never sleeps, is also the city that’s always creative. As art and festival season approaches, the city comes alive with exhibitions, gallery openings, fashion shows, and immersive cultural events that demand a wardrobe as bold and dynamic as the works on display. But how do you dress for art season in Lagos? Do you go all avant-garde, or is a chic, subtle approach more your style? Here’s your guide to slaying art season with looks as iconic as the masterpieces you’ll be surrounded by. Embrace colour, texture, and bold prints Bambam wearing bold green two-piece via Zephans and co Instagram – Bold pattern dress via Acler Art season in Lagos is a celebration of creativity, and your wardrobe should reflect that. Think colours that pop, textures that intrigue, and prints that make a statement. Don’t be afraid to experiment, whether it’s a dress covered in African prints, a jacket with bold geometric shapes, or a metallic top that catches the light just right. It’s the perfect time to wear something unexpected—like a piece from Nigerian designers who fuse traditional elements with modern flair. Minimalist chic meets art lover Jasmine Tookes in minimalist chic via Instagram – Njideka in minimalist chic via Instagram If bold prints aren’t your thing, don’t worry. Art season in Lagos is just as much about sleek minimalism as it is about vibrant expression. Think of clean lines, well-tailored outfits, and neutral tones with a modern twist. A black midi dress paired with a metallic belt and a statement bag can effortlessly take you from gallery walk-throughs to after-party drinks. The key is simple sophistication—like an art piece that speaks for itself, your outfit should ooze elegance, commanding just enough attention. Sculptural, architectural silhouettes Chioma good hair wearing LFJ via Instagram – Erica Nlewedim for LFJ via Instagram Art season is the time to take risks, and that means embracing shapes and forms that echo the creativity around you. Think sculptural silhouettes—dresses with exaggerated shoulders, trousers that defy gravity with their wide, fluid legs, and tops that to sculpt the body in unexpected ways. Statement shoes for statement moments Loewe egg heels via Who What Wear – Green croc platform heels via Donna Deelish Let your shoes do the talking. The art world is about breaking boundaries, and what better way to express that than with bold footwear? From architectural heels that seem more like sculptures to Afro-futuristic boots, this is the season to experiment with your shoe game. Pair a simple outfit with shoes that make a statement, or go all-in with footwear that matches your boldest outfit choice. The power of accessories Gold statement accessories via Byrdie – Gold statement accessories via Tumblr No art-inspired look is complete without the right accessories. Think oversized sunglasses, chunky earrings, and scarves that bring colour to your ensemble. Art season in Lagos is the perfect excuse to experiment with accessories that aren’t just functional but also serve as conversation starters. And since every art lover needs an iconic bag, go for one that matches your aesthetic—perhaps a handwoven tote or a statement clutch that doubles as a work of art itself. The ultimate transition look Cynthia Nwadiora in matching pant set via Instagram – Beauty Tukura in a pant set via Instagram Art season spans across the day, from gallery openings to rooftop mixers, and so you may need an outfit that seamlessly transitions from one to the other. A great option is tailored trousers paired with a statement top that’s bold enough for the evening but professional enough for the daytime. You can accessorise with art-inspired jewellery—think pieces that remind you of your favourite sculptures or installations. Lagos’ art season isn’t just about what you wear; it’s about how you wear it. Confidence is your ultimate accessory. As you walk through exhibitions, attend galas, and explore the creative pulse of the city, let your outfit be an extension of your personality—bold, daring, and ever-evolving.

The talented Lisa Folawiyo invited us to a glimpse of her mind at work with her latest collection on the 8th of November, 2024. The show was set at the poolfront of Azuri Towers in Victoria Island, where the wind blew through the designs delicately. I spent some time backstage, and the experience was surreal, as  I was met with artisanal finery. The pieces were perfectly tailored and featured sharply cut, sophisticated dresses. This is the legacy of Lisa Folawiyo Studios, the Maison is known for its intentionality and craftsmanship.  A sporty and playful runway via Kola Oshalusi Opening the show was a sequin dress in green, white and black, the silhouette reminiscent of a sporty girl. Instantly, I  understood the theme of the show; playful and sporty. She paired these pieces with beaded bags and little ornaments made to look like footballs. Rainbow stripes came next, colliding with black and white on some pieces, while fringe trimmings extended the stripes on others. I was reminded of Lisa’s playfulness with accessories, colours and the elements that showcase her attention to detail. Some personal favourites  from the collections via Kola Oshulasi To add more detail to the runway, the earrings were in the letters ‘L’ and ‘F’, the label’s initials. The collection featured black and white, sequins, patterns and prints, fringes, coats and accessories. Lisa Folawiyo continues to raise the bar in the Nigerian fashion scene, using traditional silhouettes to create contemporary pieces.  Indigenous hairstyles at Lisa Folawiyo Studios  via Adedamola Odetara After the show, I had a conversation with Lisa about the collection and her point of view on the African fashion industry. When asked what her vision for the collection was, she said, “I wanted to interpret the idea of life through sports. We all strive as individuals, constantly pushing to achieve something.” Lisa mentioned that even while the message of the collection is strong, she wanted the pieces to feel whimsical and soft. “The motion of these pieces in the air sort of feels like we’re dancing through life.”  Lisa was also inspired by the Ayò game, an indigenous board game popular in her native hometown. “This board game is played by two people and is considered one of the oldest board games in the world. I infused the Ayò concept into the prints of some of these pieces as well. I was very intentional about the messages that I was trying to convey as a designer.” Image credit: Adedamola Odetara Speaking on the design process, the famed designer said some pieces couldn’t make the runway because the design process was tedious and time-consuming. “I wanted the pieces to be really detailed, so I’ve been working on this collection for a very long time. We went through so many samples, especially with the accessories. We needed to communicate a lot with the artisans, and we kept sampling till we got some satisfying results.” Suffice to say, more of this collection will be available on the hangers and shelves. Some accessories from the collection via Adedamola Odetara In the coming years, Lisa Folawiyo is striving for visibility and continued desirability. Her passion for design is a blazing fire, and the designer is just getting started. “ I believe that authenticity is very important because creativity is something that should come from within. I hope we’re able to continuously be relevant, visible and consistent.” Backstage at the Lisa Folawiyo show via Adedamola Odetara Speaking on the fashion industry, Lisa gave a nod to Adebayo Lawal of Orange Culture, who she describes as a brilliant storyteller. She also mentioned I Am Isigo, Kilentar, Eki Kere and Mai Atafo as some Nigerian fashion designers whose work she admires.  Evidently, the fashion industry in Nigeria is shaping to become a force to reckon with globally. The best part is the internal recognition and appreciation Nigerian fashion designers are getting. Speaking of this ripple effect, Lisa said, “I believe even as individuals, you’ve got to love yourself first before you can love others.” Just like Lisa, I love to see Africans respecting African brands and designs.  “It was quite different decades ago. What happens here is part of the charm and because we’re doing it for us, bringing our essence to the table, we’re still on the right track. We cannot deny the fact that we’re not working in the most enabling environment, but our ability to make ends meet should be valued and appreciated.”  The show’s finale with Lisa via Adedamola Odetara

Renowned luxury fashion house, Abaya Lagos, is set to mark a significant milestone in its journey, with a spectacular fashion show at Azuri Towers, Eko Atlantic, on December 13th, 2024. This exclusive event will introduce an all-new, groundbreaking collection and commemorate the brand’s 10th Anniversary, reflecting the brand’s decade-long commitment to redefining modern elegance for women worldwide. Since its inception in 2014, Abaya Lagos has earned a reputation for creating sophisticated, high-end abayas that blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary designs. Known for its bold yet refined aesthetic, the brand has quickly become a symbol of luxury, innovation, and cultural pride, celebrating the essence of femininity through carefully curated designs.   The upcoming event promises to be a celebration of Abaya Lagos’ remarkable journey, one that has been marked by creativity, artistry, and a steadfast commitment to elevating the abaya as a global fashion statement. Over the past ten years, the brand has redefined luxury abayas, setting trends and inspiring women to embrace their individuality with grace and confidence. From its first collection to its most recent designs, Abaya Lagos continues to push the boundaries of fashion with a unique mix of opulence, simplicity, and contemporary flair. “Celebrating 10 years of Abaya Lagos is not just about looking back, but also looking ahead to the future of fashion. This anniversary collection is a testament to the evolution of the brand, to the art of storytelling through design, and to the women who have made Abaya Lagos their choice for elegance and empowerment,” said Salihat Rahaman, Founder and Creative Director of Abaya Lagos. The 10th Anniversary Collection The anniversary collection is a fusion of the timeless and the modern, featuring meticulously crafted abayas that blend luxurious fabrics, intricate embellishments, and a fresh palette of colors. The collection draws inspiration from both tradition and innovation, with each piece telling a unique story of femininity, power, and elegance. The fashion show will present a curated selection of pieces that reflect Abaya Lagos’ evolution over the years. From signature silhouettes to bold new looks, the collection will be a celebration of the versatility and timeless appeal of the abaya, highlighting the brand’s ability to stay ahead of trends while remaining true to its cultural roots. Exclusive Fashion Show at Azuri Towers The event will be an intimate, invite-only gathering of 100 elite guests, including high-profile figures in the fashion industry, influencers, celebrities, and loyal clients. The show will take place in the breathtaking Azuri Towers, Eko Atlantic, providing a stunning backdrop that complements the elegance of the brand’s designs. Guests will have the exclusive opportunity to experience the collection up close, with models gracing the runway in a truly luxurious setting. The event promises to be a night of elegance, artistry, and celebration, as Abaya Lagos continues to solidify its place in the global fashion landscape. About Abaya Lagos Founded in 2014, Abaya Lagos is a luxury fashion house specializing in high-end abayas and contemporary women’s wear. The brand is known for its innovative designs, blending traditional styles with modern sensibilities to create a sophisticated yet bold statement. With an emphasis on craftsmanship, quality, and exclusivity, Abaya Lagos has become a leading name in the fashion industry, setting new standards for opulence and elegance in women’s fashion.