It can be hard to decide on the perfect outfit to wear to a live music show because it needs to be practical on various levels: comfortable, easy to dance in and stylish without being over the top.
The African fashion scene has been steadily growing for a while now, thanks to the rise of digital and social media, which allows brands to tell their own stories and increase visibility for their work. But we would be remiss not to note that Nigeria’s biggest Afrobeats stars have also had a great impact on the state of Nigerian fashion—and African fashion in general.
When singer Davido appeared on the May 2020 cover of Billboard magazine alongside Tiwa Savage, he did it wearing a colorful print set from contemporary Nigerian brand Orange Culture. Music star Wizkid, currently on a world tour for his Made In Lagos album, has a fan Instagram account dedicated to his clothing, which include pieces from Ghanaian label Biglommoz Couture and streetwear brand Full Regalia.
The relationship between music and fashion has always been symbiotic, and allows artists to fully express their culture and style along with their sound. So if you find yourself attending a Wizkid show this fall, what better way to celebrate great music than with stylish pieces made in the same place that the music originates.
A two-piece set takes the guesswork out of deciding what to wear and AJABENG’s cream-colored Oversized Camel Contrast Button Shirt and Wide-Legged Camel Pants are a sophisticated choice. It’s both a smart and casual outfit thanks to its loose and relaxed fit, and both pieces come together to make one high-impact look.
If you’re making a night of it and having a meal before the show, then you’ll need a chic look that will take you from dinner to concert such as the striking Zali Orange Top by Nigerian womenswear designer Abiola Olusola. The bold yellow hue of the long-sleeved top means you’ll stand out in a crowd, while the small cutout at the bust adds a touch of drama. Wear it with slim-leg pants and comfortable heels.
Comfort is important when you’re standing and dancing to great music all night long. You’ll be able to move and put your hands in the air with ease in the Oversized Lapel Jacket by Ghanaian brand AJABENG. The lightness if the wool and linen-blend fabric means it’s breathable.
One of the most hardworking wardrobe staples is the classic button-down shirt and this version from Orange Culture is as stylish as they come. Handmade in Lagos, Nigeria from soft cotton, the Warning Tunic features an eclectic photographic print with a long-line silhouette that can be worn alone as a dress.
The Palma Mesh Top by Nigerian-based swimwear brand Salt and Sunscreen can go beyond the beach when dressed up for an evening out. It’s made with a lightweight mesh fabric in a custom psychedelic-style print that you won’t find anywhere else, which also means that no two pieces are the same. Styling it with the coordinating Iman flared pants creates a high-impact look that needs little in the way of accessories.
