THISDAY STYLE MAGAZINE 2ND NOVEMBER 2025

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 2 2025

that is both timeless and modern, merging old-world glamour with contemporary edge. Her clothes have graced red carpets, global runways, and the wardrobes of women who understand that style isn’t about trends, it’s about attitude.

think it was 2011 or 2012 when I first met Lanre Da Silva. It was my first trip to the prestigious Arise Fashion Week Event on the New York Fashion Week platform. Lanre was one of the Nigerian designers invited to showcase that season. I met her briefly after the show - elegant, soft-spoken, with that quiet confidence she carries so naturally. We wouldn’t become friends until almost a year later, but remember that trip vividly. It was the same show where she fell on the stage, then got up immediately and kept walking, her chin lifted. That moment has stayed with me not because she stumbled, but because of how she carried on, unflinching. That’s the essence of Lanre: grace, resilience, and a quiet, almost stubborn, determination to keep moving forward.

Two decades later, her fashion brand LDA stands as a reflection of that spirit. Her journey has been one of evolution—discipline meeting creativity, heritage meeting modernity. What’s remarkable about Lanre is how she’s built not just a label but a community of women who mirror her strength. This cover, featuring 21 women she calls her muses, tells that story better than words ever could. Over the years, we’ve gone over collections together, shared our fears, exchanged ideas, and found comfort in those quiet, in-between moments of creation and reflection. There’s something deeply moving about watching a woman stay true to her purpose through changing times, and I feel genuinely honoured to have been part of her beautiful journey. Congratulations, Lanre—my sister, my friend. You remind me that longevity isn’t just about survival; it’s about evolution with integrity. That no matter the noise or the trends, true artistry finds its way back to purpose. Watching you build, reinvent, and sustain over the years has been simply amazing.

It’s fitting that this celebration comes at a time when the city itself feels alive with creativity. The fashion and art season in Lagos has grown into something magnificent. The energy is palpable—the runways, galleries, installations, performances. Each event tells how far we’ve come and how much further we can go. I’ve been part of this ecosystem for over a decade, and it still excites me to see international editors and influencers tweeting “Next stop: Lagos” like it’s the most natural thing. And why shouldn’t it be? This is where it’s happening.

We can and will do better. The world is already watching, but the real work is in showing up for ourselves. If you are reading this, please make the time to see the shows, buy the clothes, visit the exhibitions, and experience the culture. This isn’t just their moment, it’s ours. The creative industry in Nigeria is one of our greatest stories yet, and it deserves our full attention and participation.

WARDROBE CHAOS?

MAYBE YOU JUST NEED A PERSONALITY

REBRAND

If your wardrobe has started to feel more like a crime scene than a closet, don’t panic — it’s not chaos, it’s character. Those jeans that no longer zip, the sequin top from your “outside” era, and the beige blazer that made you feel like a LinkedIn post in motion — they’re all evidence of who you used to be. Every hanger holds a version of you that once made sense. But maybe it’s time to admit it: your clothes have outgrown your story, or maybe the story has outgrown your clothes. Sometimes, the disconnect isn’t between your clothes and trends — it’s between your clothes and who you’ve become. The pieces that once screamed confidence might now feel like a costume. The neutrals that once felt elegant suddenly feel empty. You’ve evolved, but your closet hasn’t caught up. That’s not a fashion problem; it’s an identity one.

Here’s the thing: everyone outgrows their style at some point. The “corporate you,” the “soft life you,” and the “weekend risk-taker you” are all fighting for the same shelf space, and that’s why getting dressed feels like a negotiation. You’re not messy — you’re mid-evolution.

Start by finding the clothes that still feel like you. The ones you reach for without thinking. Those are clues. Maybe your energy has shifted from high heels to flats, or from fast fashion to pieces with meaning. Maybe you’ve grown softer, bolder, freer. Your new style doesn’t have to look expensive; it just has to look honest.

And yes, some things need to go. The “someday” dress, the jeans you swear you’ll fit into again, the party top that feels like someone else’s memory — thank them and move on. Style isn’t about holding on; it’s about editing. When you let go of what doesn’t fit your life anymore, you make room for what actually does.

You don’t need a stylist or a shopping spree — just self-awareness. Because the moment you stop dressing for nostalgia and start dressing for now, something clicks. Suddenly, your closet starts to make sense again.

Maybe you’re in your no-nonsense era — drawn to structure, simplicity, and sharp tailoring. Or maybe you’re rediscovering joy through colour and movement. Whatever your phase, lean into it unapologetically. That’s the rebrand.

Fashion has always been the quickest way to reintroduce yourself without saying a word. When your clothes align with your energy, confidence follows naturally. So edit with intention. Curate, don’t clutter. Dress for who you are today, not the version you’ve already outgrown.

Because sometimes, the problem isn’t that you have nothing to wear — it’s that you’re still holding onto a wardrobe built for a chapter that’s already ended. And when you finally clear the space and step into what feels true now, you’ll realise: the rebrand was never about the clothes. It was always about you.

GLENFIDDICH X ASTON MARTIN: A CELEBRATION OF PRECISION, PERFORMANCE, AND CRAFT IN LAGOS

Lagos recently became the centre of luxury, innovation, and artistry as Glenfiddich, the world’s most awarded single malt Scotch whisky, and the Aston Martin Formula One™️Team unveiled their global partnership in Nigeria, through two extraordinary events that redefined sophistication.

At Atrium by Sora, the partnership was formally announced in a press junket that marked the Nigerian debut of the Limited Edition Glenfiddich 16-Year-Old

Single Malt and a capsule fashion collection designed by I.N. Official & TT Dalk. The collaboration unites two legacies: Glenfiddich’s heritage of whisky craftsmanship and Aston Martin’s legacy of performance engineering under a shared pursuit of innovation and precision.

“True progress is achieved when heritage and innovation move together,

” said Claudia Falcone, Global Brand Director for Glenfiddich. Guests experienced the fusion of culture, creativity, and luxury through curated whisky tastings, immersive displays and fashion inspired by Aston Martin’s motorsport heritage. Nigeria was chosen as a key launch market, reflecting its vibrant cultural influence and growing appetite for premium experiences.

The celebration continued at Gamma Records, Ikoyi, where Glenfiddich and Aston Martin hosted A Night Before the Race, themed The Night of Precision: Club 1959. The event, held on the eve of the Singapore Grand Prix, embodied mastery in every form: engineering, music, design, and whisky. Guests savoured fine dining paired with Glenfiddich’s finest expressions, as Meta Luxe Manager Eddie Madaki unveiled the commemorative 16-YearOld drawn from an ultra-rare 1959 cask. The night pulsed with energy as DJs Flo, Casper Sandra, Baggio, and Jinseoul set the tone with electrifying sets, building up to a powerful headline performance by Runtown.

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THE UNWRITTEN DRESS CODE OF LAGOS FASHION & ART SEASON

Every city has its season — Paris has fashion week, New York has the Met Gala, and Lagos? Lagos has November. It’s the unofficial month-long festival of fashion, art, design, and cultural flexing that ignites the city’s social scene and eventually gives way to Detty December. From Lagos Fashion Week to ART X, Design Week, GTCO Fashion Weekend, and every rooftop party in between, the city becomes one big runway — and trust Lagosians, no one needs an invite to slay. But beyond the flashing lights and camera-ready smiles lies something far more fascinating — the unwritten dress code of Lagos’s most stylish season. It’s not in any official memo, but somehow, everyone just knows. Here’s your unofficial, slightly cheeky guide to surviving — and serving — through Nigeria’s busiest fashion and art month.

1. Dress Like You Have a Gallery Opening at 4 and a Party at 9

November in Lagos is a marathon, not a sprint. You can’t just plan one outfit per event. You need one that transitions seamlessly from “art critic” to “afterparty siren.” Think: flowy dresses paired with sneakers that can later switch to heels, or oversized shirts cinched with belts for instant drama. Fashion Week may start at 5, but the real show begins when everyone heads to the after-event pop-ups. Pro tip: Always carry a statement accessory. That sculptural clutch or metallic neckpiece might just land you on a style page.

2. Minimalism? Not This Month

For a city that thrives on boldness, November is when subtlety officially takes a break.

The vibe? More is more. Sequins meet fringe, leather meets tulle, metallics meet Ankara — and somehow, it works.

Lagos fashion lovers understand that these events are not just about art or design; they’re about

you being part of the exhibition. You don’t just attend — you arrive. If you must do minimal, make it intentional. Lagos minimalism comes with a side of loud sunglasses and attitude.

3. The “I’m Just Here for the Vibe” Outfit

Let’s be honest, not everyone comes to actually see art. Some are just there for the vibe, the photo ops, and the complimentary champagne. Their outfits say, “I woke up like this,” but the tailoring says otherwise. Slouchy denim, crisp white shirts, vintage sunnies — all perfectly careless. These are the people who float between fashion tents and art galleries like they’re curating the whole season. And yes, they might actually end up being photographed more than the designers.

4. Comfort Is a Myth (But Try Anyway)

Between traffic jams, standing for hours at shows that never start on time, and spontaneous pop-ups across the city, comfort becomes a fantasy. But Lagosians are

creative — we make it fashion. Block heels replace stilettos, corsets meet cargo pants, and fans — yes, handheld fans — become both accessory and necessity. The trick is layering function into fashion: breathable fabrics that can survive both the sun and the indoor AC that feels like winter in Norway.

5. The Artist’s Uniform

You’ll spot them instantly — the effortlessly artsy crowd. They’re the ones wearing paint-splattered trousers that somehow look expensive, oversized linen shirts, bold jewellery that tells a story, and the kind of confidence that says, “I don’t follow trends, I start them.”

They’re regulars at Design Week, discussing sustainable design with one hand and holding a glass of wine in the other. Their version of fashion isn’t loud — it’s layered with meaning. They don’t need logos; their aura is the brand.

6. The Influencer Starter Pack

If you’ve ever wondered where all your favourite Instagram

influencers go in November, it’s everywhere. From pre-event outfit reveals to post-show recaps, Lagos Fashion and Art Season is their Olympics.

Expect high slits, statement bags, and coordinated friend groups walking into events like they’re shooting a campaign. They have one rule: never repeat an outfit. Even if the season lasts 30 days. And somehow, they make it look effortless — even when you know it didn’t.

7. Local, of course

Lagos fashion season is the perfect time to celebrate Nigerian designers. You’ll see everyone rocking brands like Orange Culture, Emmy Kasbit, Lisa Folawiyo, Banke Kuku, Tokyo James, or Andrea Iyamah.

Local fashion houses drop exclusive collections, and attendees make it a mission to wear homegrown pieces because in Lagos, supporting local is a style statement. Nothing says “I get it” like wearing a silk two-piece from a young designer and styling it with vintage Fendi shades.

8. The Rise of Genderless Glam

Gone are the days when fashion had rules. Lagos’s new creative generation — from stylists to performers — are rewriting the codes.

You’ll see men in pearl necklaces, women in sharp tuxedos, androgynous silhouettes floating through art exhibitions, and accessories that defy category. It’s freedom meets flair, and Lagos is the perfect stage for it. Every outfit says something — and even when it doesn’t, it says a lot.

9. The Power of Accessories (a.k.a. Lagos Armour)

In Lagos, accessories are not afterthoughts — they’re armour. Oversized sunglasses (even indoors), layered jewellery, dramatic hats, and statement bags that deserve their own spotlight.

Your accessories tell people whether you’re there to network, to flirt, or to be photographed. And if you get it right, they might even forgive a basic outfit underneath.

10. The Rule of the Lagos Showgoer: Arrive Late, But Look Great

It’s practically an art form. Lagosians have mastered the delicate timing of arriving late enough to make an entrance but early enough to be photographed. But when they walk in — headto-toe in metallics, fringe, and sunglasses (yes, at night) — the crowd parts like the Red Sea. Because in Lagos, punctuality is optional, but presence is mandatory.

11. The Post-Event Flex

When the lights go out and the shows wrap up, the real competition begins — who posts it best? Your outfit might have been stunning, but if it didn’t make it to Instagram before sunrise, did it even happen?

Expect editorial-style photoshoots on sidewalks, detailed outfit credits in captions, and recap reels set to the latest Afrobeats hits. Lagos doesn’t just do fashion; it documents it.

DATE YOURSELF UNTIL YOU SET THE STANDARD

Somewhere between the heartbreak playlists, half-hearted situationships, and endless “he’s not ready” excuses, many of us forgot one crucial thing: the most important relationship you’ll ever have is the one you have with yourself. Before you start waiting for someone to match your vibe, ask yourself—have you even met your own vibe properly? “Date yourself until you set the standard” isn’t just an Instagram quote to repost on a Sunday when you’re feeling spiritual. It’s a full lifestyle shift. It’s the radical act of choosing you—fully, intentionally, and without apology—so that when love finally walks in, it feels like a bonus, not a rescue.

Learn Your Own Love Language

We’re so used to decoding other people’s love languages that we often forget to ask, what’s mine?

Is it words of affirmation, acts of service, quality time, or maybe something you made up like “silence and space after a long day”?

Dating yourself means finding out what truly fills your cup. Maybe it’s fresh flowers on your table every Friday, a solo dinner at your favourite restaurant, or a weekend staycation where you don’t have to explain your playlist to anyone. The goal isn’t to prove you don’t need anyone—it’s to show yourself that you’re already whole.

Build Standards That Reflect Self-Respect

You can’t set a standard

you’ve never experienced. If you’ve never taken yourself out to dinner, how will you recognise when someone else does it right? If you’ve never bought yourself something nice, how will you know the difference between thoughtful and performative gifts? When you date yourself, you’re not just learning your taste; you’re teaching the world how to treat you. You

start realising that “bare minimum” doesn’t make you swoon anymore. You stop confusing consistency with obsession, and you stop calling effort “too much.”

Make Solitude Your Superpower

There’s a difference between loneliness and solitude.

Loneliness is the fear of being without someone.

Solitude is the peace of being with yourself. The more comfortable you become in your own company, the less desperate you’ll be to fill silence with someone else’s noise. Go to brunch alone. Take that pottery class. Travel solo. Learn what kind of music you actually like without your ex’s influence. Find out what makes you laugh when no one’s watching. You’d be surprised how much you discover when you’re not performing for an audience.

Redefine Romance

Romance doesn’t always have to come from someone else. It can come from you lighting candles on a random Tuesday, cooking yourself a beautiful meal, or listening to a song that makes you feel like the main character. It’s the little gestures that remind

you—you deserve softness, effort, and beauty every day, not just when someone is watching.

Self-dating is also about accountability. It’s about showing up for yourself the way you wish someone else would. Keep your own promises. Show up to your own goals. Be the partner you’ve always wanted— attentive, kind, dependable, exciting. When you hold yourself to that standard, you won’t fall for just anyone who offers the barest version of it.

The Standard You Set Becomes the Energy You Keep

Here’s the plot twist: once you start dating yourself properly, you’ll realise that not everyone deserves access to you. You’ll stop confusing chemistry for compatibility. You’ll stop entertaining “potential.”

And you’ll stop mistaking attention for affection.

When you’ve tasted peace, chaos becomes unattractive.

When you’ve learned to enjoy your own company, bad company feels louder. And when you’ve treated yourself with consistency and care, you’ll never again be impressed by crumbs disguised as love.

By Funke Babs-Kufeji

The Beauty Fixers

Every stylish woman knows that the day can take unexpected turns, from heat to long meetings. That’s why there is always a compact powder, lip balm, and a go-to lipstick tucked inside. A small perfume bottle or roll-on and a pack of wipes often make the cut too. These little things keep you feeling fresh when the day starts to show on your face.

The Everyday Tools

Headphones, sunglasses, a pen, and a small notebook are the real basics. Some women swap the notebook for a tablet, while others stick to a diary filled with reminders and ideas. Hand sanitizer, gum, tissues, and a power bank usually find a spot too. These are the items that keep the day running smoothly.

The Personal Touch

Every bag has something that isn’t exactly useful but feels necessary. It could be a photo, a small charm, or a keepsake that brings comfort. These small pieces make a bag feel personal, reminding you of home or someone you care about.

The Mini Emergency Kit

Life is unpredictable, and the most prepared women know it. A painkiller, safety pin, or hair tie can save the day. Some keep a mini pouch with stain wipes, plasters, and breath mints. These little things are the reason they always seem calm, even when things go wrong.

What It Really Says

A woman’s bag isn’t just an accessory. It’s a reflection of her routine and personality. Whether

WHAT’S IN YOUR HANDBAG ? EVERYDAY ESSENTIALS STYLISH WOMEN CARRY.

A woman’s bag says a lot about her. It holds her life in miniature form, the things she needs to get through a busy day and still look put together. Beyond the usual phone and wallet, there’s always a mix of practical, personal, and sentimental items that reveal her lifestyle and habits.

it’s neat and minimal or packed with “just in case” items, what’s inside tells a quiet story about how she lives, what she values, and how she stays ready for anything.

Some women carry only the basics: a phone, keys, wallet, and lip balm. Their bags are neat and light, just like their approach to life. They like things simple, and they know exactly what they need. Others have bags that hold everything from snacks and chargers to receipts and spare earrings. These are the multitaskers, the ones always ready for anything. To them, comfort means being prepared.

Then there are the sentimental ones. You’ll find a tiny charm, an old photo, or a note they can’t throw away. Their bags carry stories, not just stuff. For them, every item has a memory or a meaning. Your bag can also reflect your mood or stage in life. The student’s bag is a mix of notebooks, lip gloss, and phone cables. The new mother’s holds wet wipes, snacks, and a sense of organised chaos. The professional’s bag is a mobile office, filled with planners, perfume, and power banks. Each one tells its own story.

Fashion may be about how you present yourself, but your handbag reveals how you manage your world. It shows what you think is essential, what you’re ready for, and what you can’t leave behind.

So, take a look inside your bag. What does it say about you? Are you the minimalist, the collector, the sentimentalist, or the planner? Whatever the answer, it’s your daily life packed in one place — practical, personal, and uniquely yours.

DESIGNERS TO LOOK OUT FOR THIS SEASON

There’s a particular kind of electricity that sweeps through Lagos once fashion season hits. Tailors work overtime, stylists turn into therapists, and everyone suddenly wants to know the same things: who’s showing, what’s dropping, and who’s about to set the tone. For us, we are always on the lookout for interesting offerings, and this year we have our eyes on these five brands, which stand out for all the right reasons — bold, intelligent, rooted in culture, and ready for the world.

EMMY KASBIT

mmanuel Okoro’s Emmy Kasbit shows always feel like a cinematic chapter — handwoven Akwete fabric, structured pieces, and tailored lines that speak the language of heritage with a modern accent. His Lagos Fashion Week opening this year was nothing short of a fashion storm, a packed house, and a collection that read like a love letter to craft. What makes Kasbit one to watch isn’t just his past triumphs but his clarity. Akwete is reimagined, colour is considered, and silhouettes carry weight without excess. It’s thoughtful, consistent luxury — proof that substance still wins.

Over the past decade, Wanni Fuga has quietly built an empire of effortless sophistication. Founded by Toluwani Wabara, the brand has become the go-to for women who want to look like they put effort into their look. Kaftans that glide, dresses that command attention, and separates that move seamlessly from brunch to boardroom. Over the years, Wanni Fuga has evolved from a local favourite to an international name. What makes her stand out this season is her mastery of versatility. Her designs are made for real women. The ones juggling careers, travel, and social calendars but still want to look camera-ready. Expect richer fabrics, sculpted swimwear, and silhouettes that whisper quiet confidence.

ITUEN BASI

Few names inspire the kind of nostalgia Ituen Basi does. Long before Ankara became the darling of mainstream fashion, she was cutting, pleating, and storytelling with wit and precision. Her 2008 homecoming collection is still credited with ushering in a new era for the print — reintroducing it as something fresh, fashionable, and deeply Nigerian. Now, the rumour mill is buzzing again — whispers that she might make a return to the GTCO runway. Whether she does or not, her legacy remains unmatched. She’s the rare designer who can make nostalgia feel brand new — where every pattern tells a story and every silhouette nods to a history we still want to wear.

NKWO

Sustainability isn’t a buzzword for NKWO; it’s her blueprint. Her label’s philosophy of less has become a movement — small runs, upcycling, and the ingenious use of waste to create Dakala cloth, a fabric made from discarded denim and strip-weaving techniques rooted in Nigerian craft traditions. Every piece tells a story of transformation, of waste turned to want, of artisanship elevated to luxury. This season, NKWO’s relevance feels even sharper as global fashion continues to confront its excesses. Her work lands squarely at the intersection of ethics and aesthetics — rawedged, refined, and entirely irresistible.

BANKE

If colour and print had a goddess, her name would be Banke Kuku. Her fabrics move like silk water — sensual, sophisticated, and unapologetically expressive. The designer has built a whole world around her prints: luxurious interiors, dreamy resort wear, and ready-to-wear pieces that transition effortlessly from holiday to city life.

Her teasers this season hint at a new drop titled Savannah — a continuation of her printas-story philosophy. Think body-skimming dresses, swimwear styled as daywear, and that signature harmony between elegance and ease.

LANRE DA SILVA

20 YEARS AND COUNTING

There are few names in Nigerian fashion that carry the quiet authority of Lanre Da Silva. For two decades, the designer, known simply as LDA, has built a brand that is both timeless and modern, merging old-world glamour with contemporary edge. Her clothes have graced red carpets, global runways, and the wardrobes of women who understand that style isn’t about trends, it’s about attitude.

A PASSION THAT CHOSE HER

Lanre didn’t set out to be a designer. With a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Coventry University and a Master’s in Finance from the University of Leicester, her early ambitions were corporate. But destiny had its own design. “I loved fashion long before I realised it could become a career,” she once said. “I used to shop for vintage pieces in London — lace, tulle, embroidery — and it fascinated me how something old could still feel powerful.” That fascination became her foundation. When she launched LDA in 2005, her debut pieces channelled the glamour of 1940s couture — nipped waists, voluminous skirts, and unapologetic femininity. It was nostalgic yet fresh, an ode to classic craftsmanship reimagined for the modern African woman.

Her vision was simple but profound: to create clothes that bridge the past and the present. And in doing so, she reintroduced Lagos to the enduring magic of elegance.

BUILDING AN EMPIRE, ONE SEAM AT A TIME

In the beginning, couture in Nigeria was a dream that often collided with reality. Skilled pattern-makers were few, supply chains unreliable, and quality materials came at a price. Lanre faced all of it head-on.

“There were times was truly fed up,” she recalls, “when things weren’t going smoothly. But I endured a little longer, and behold, there was light at the end of the tunnel.”

That persistence birthed a brand built on excellence. LDA grew from a small atelier to a full-fledged fashion house. Her clientele expanded quickly: women who wanted clothes that spoke before they did.

Through the interplay of pattern, print, texture, and traditional fabrics, Lanre developed her distinct signature — one that was unmistakably African, yet cosmopolitan. The LDA woman became a cultural archetype: sophisticated, intelligent, and bold — confident enough to make an entrance and graceful enough to own it.

THE WORLD TAKES NOTICE

In 2012, Franca Sozzani, the late Editor-in-Chief of Vogue Italia, and Italian designer Roberto Cavalli visited Nigeria and made a point to stop by LDA’s flagship boutique. That meeting opened doors. Shortly after, Lanre was invited to showcase a capsule collection during Mercedes-Benz New York Fashion Week under the United Nations’ Fashion 4 Development initiative — an event honouring Sozzani’s humanitarian work. It was a career-defining moment.

“I’ll never forget that experience,” Lanre said later. “It reminded me that what we create here can speak to the world.”

The international spotlight followed. LDA was featured in L’Uomo Vogue’s “Rebranding Africa” issue, spotlighting designers changing the global narrative. Her collection was also launched on Yoox.com’s “Discovered in Africa by Vogue Italia” platform, making her one of the first African designers to sell globally through a major fashion e-commerce site.

Then came Milan. In 2013, Lanre’s Butterfly Kisses collection debuted at Dolce & Gabbana’s Spiga 2 Concept Store — the Italian brand’s curated retail space for new design talent. For four consecutive seasons, LDA’s pieces were sold alongside the biggest names in luxury fashion.

For a designer who started with sketches on her living room floor in Lagos, it was nothing short of history.

ROOTED IN LAGOS, RESONATING WORLDWIDE

Despite her global reach, Lanre has never abandoned her Lagos roots. Her studio remains a hive of creativity — tailors cutting, beading, stitching — all under her watchful eye. She knows every fabric, every finish, every hem. “I’ve learned that Nigerians are willing to pay for value,” she said in a recent interview.

“If they see quality and authenticity, they’ll support it.”

That authenticity defines her work. Each collection reflects a deliberate balance between nostalgia and innovation, between structure and softness. Whether it’s the architectural gowns she’s known for or her more fluid ready-to-wear pieces, Lanre’s clothes always tell a story, one of craftsmanship, confidence, and cultural pride.

Over the years, she’s shown at Arise Fashion Week, GTBank Fashion Weekend, Lagos Fashion Week, Pitti Immagine in Florence, and Vogue Talents Milan, among others. Her collaborations with Vlisco on collections like Urban Beat, Gallery of Poems, and Trésor Brillant further established her as a designer capable of translating African textile traditions into high-fashion artistry.

THE LDA WOMAN

Ask anyone to describe an LDA woman, and you’ll hear the same words: sophisticated, radiant, and impossible to ignore. She’s not trying to fit in; she already belongs.

For Lanre, design has always been about the woman first. “When a woman wears LDA,” she says, “she should feel powerful and beautiful. design for women who want to look good and stand out, women who want their clothes to say something before they even speak.”

That philosophy has made her a go-to for celebrities, first ladies, and discerning fashion lovers. From glamorous red carpets to intimate soirées, the LDA woman is always a step ahead, dressed not just in beauty but in confidence.

A RENAISSANCE OF IDEAS

As she celebrates two decades in fashion, Lanre is again reinventing herself — and the industry. Her new initiative, The LDA Runway Renaissance, is a creative platform dedicated to mentorship, sustainability, and collaboration.

“The launch of this platform was inspired by the next frontier of fashion,” she explains.

“It’s about creating consciously and working together to strengthen our industry.”

Through Runway Renaissance, she’s nurturing emerging designers, fostering local craftsmanship, and advocating for a more responsible approach to fashion production.

For Lanre, this is the natural next step — to give back to an industry she helped shape.

TIMELESSNESS OVER TREND

If there’s one thing that defines LDA, it’s her relationship with time. Her pieces aren’t designed to chase the moment; they’re designed to outlive it. In her 2024 presentation, Eternal Glamour, she asked a simple question:

“Is fashion seasonal, or can it last longer if we are more conscious?” The answer lay in

the collection itself — clothes that transcended fleeting trends, merging craftsmanship with intention. Every detail, every cut, every shade of colour was a reminder that longevity is the ultimate luxury.

A LEGACY IN MOTION

Lanre Da Silva has built a brand that embodies excellence, established global relevance without losing its roots, and mentored a generation of designers who now see her as both muse and mentor. Her success is not measured in seasons, but in influence — in how her vision continues to shape the way we see African luxury. “Fashion changes,” she says with a smile, “but style endures. The only thing constant in life is change — and you must be brave enough to evolve with it.” That quiet courage — to adapt, to stay curious, to keep creating — is what has kept LDA at the forefront of Nigerian fashion for twenty years.

TWO DECADES OF STYLE AND SISTERHOOD

Two decades after her debut collection, Lanre Da Silva Ajayi’s name still evokes the same admiration it did when she first burst onto the scene. Her gowns continue to turn heads, her shows remain among the most anticipated of fashion season, and her story continues to inspire. As she looks back on twenty years of creativity and courage, Lanre isn’t done; she’s just getting started. The next chapter promises even more colour, more innovation, and more magic. Because for her, fashion has never been about the moment. It’s about legacy. And that legacy is best captured in this week’s cover image — Lanre surrounded by 21 women who have inspired her journey. Her muses. Her sisters in style. Together, they represent two decades of friendship, creativity, and faith in fashion’s power to transform. Because LDA has never been about one woman, it has always been a celebration of the women who wear it, live it, and bring it to life.

So you’re in love… or at least talking stages deep. But before you start flooding your feed with couple selfies and “my peace” captions, hold that thought. There’s a new trend in town — soft launching your relationship.It’s the subtle art of letting the world suspect you’re boo’d up without confirming a thing. Think: a mysterious hand on the dinner table, a back view on vacation, or an Instagram story with just his sneakers in the frame. Call it privacy. Call it mystery. Call it the PR rollout of modern love. Here’s how to do it right — no press release required.

1. Understand the Assignment

Soft launching is basically a “teaser trailer” for your relationship. It’s a way to share your happiness without serving the full story. The idea is to give vibes, not details. Gen Z turned it into an art form — probably because they’ve seen enough online heartbreaks to know the internet doesn’t need a seat at every table.

2. The Wrist Rule

If his face is in your first post, you’ve already failed the soft launch test. The goal is to hint, not confirm. Think wrists, backs of heads, silhouettes, reflections on sunglasses — that kind of lowkey reveal that makes your followers squint and zoom in like detectives.

3. Let the Caption Do the Talking (or Not)

Captions are everything. A well-placed emoji, a vague phrase like “good company,” or even “Sundays like this” gets the point across. The trick? Keep it open to interpretation. Remember, you’re managing curiosity, not offering clarity.

4. Build Suspense

You can’t post one teaser and disappear. Soft launching is a slow build-up — a story arc. First, the wrist. Then the dinner table. Then maybe a blurred beach selfie with two shadows. Each post should feed the mystery and keep your audience guessing.

5. No Tags, No Traces

This one’s crucial. If you tag

your mystery man or drop an obvious clue, the game is over. The magic lies in plausible deniability. Let people wonder. Once they can find his handle, it becomes a hard launch, and that’s a whole different strategy.

6. Don’t Overdo It

Too many teasers and you risk looking like you’re running a PR campaign for a ghost. The whole point is effortlessness. Subtle. Chic. If it looks staged, it’s probably too much.

7. Remember the Endgame

Soft launching isn’t for everyone. Some people like to stay mysterious forever; others eventually go full “hard launch” — face reveal, matching outfits, the whole deal. Just make sure your partner’s on the same page before you start leaving breadcrumbs online. Nothing says awkward like a “soft launch” that gets unlaunched two weeks later.

8. Keep the Real Thing Private

The best relationships have more happening offline than online. Don’t confuse digital intrigue for emotional depth. Post the cropped photos if you must, but remember that the real PR strategy is in protecting your peace.

9. Own the Aesthetic

The soft launch works best when your feed matches the energy. Think cosy neutrals, romantic lighting, and captions that sound effortlessly poetic. You’re not announcing — you’re curating.

10. Know When to Hard Launch

Eventually, the moment comes. Maybe it’s a birthday post. Maybe it’s your first anniversary. Maybe it’s just time. The “hard launch” is your full reveal — the couple selfie, the tag, the caption that finally confirms what everyone already suspected. Timing is everything.

SOFT LAUNCHING RELATIONSHIPS – THE NEW PR STRATEGY

THE LUXURY SHOE EDIT:

5 PAIRS EVERY STYLISH MAN WANTS NOW

Luxury isn’t loud anymore. It’s in the fine details—hand-stitched seams, supple suede, and the quiet confidence of a man who knows quality when he sees it. Shoes, more than any other accessory, reveal taste. They show how much a man values craftsmanship, comfort, and character over passing trends. Today’s wardrobe is more fluid. A sleek sneaker can sit beside a tailored loafer, a suede slip-on next to a performance sole. Modern luxury is about movement from meetings to dinners, travel to downtime without missing a step. Whether you lean toward Italian craftsmanship or Swiss precision, these five pairs prove that true style is in the details. They are for men who understand that luxury is not about being seen; it’s about how it feels when you walk in it.

By Funke Babs-Kufeji

Loro Piana Summer Walk

The Loro Piana Summer Walk is the definition of understated luxury. Crafted from the softest suede and stitched by hand in Italy, this shoe embodies refinement without needing to announce it. The design is simple but meticulous, made for men who prefer quality that speaks quietly. What makes the Summer Walk special is its comfort. The lightweight sole moves silently on marble floors, and the interior feels like a soft glove. It is versatile enough to pair with a linen suit, chinos, or shorts, perfect for warm weather and relaxed elegance. Loro Piana’s philosophy is built on restraint: no logos, no loud design choices, just perfect craftsmanship and timeless taste. The Summer Walk is not a trend piece; it is a wardrobe essential that ages beautifully. Every step feels effortless, every look elevated. It is the shoe that proves luxury can be soft-spoken and still command attention.

On Cloud 5

The On Cloud 5 combines modern engineering with everyday style. Designed in Switzerland, it is built for performance but styled for sophistication. The signature CloudTec sole provides cushioning that feels almost weightless, while its minimal silhouette ensures it fits seamlessly into a refined wardrobe. This sneaker is made for the man who moves constantly but never compromises on comfort or appearance. It works for travel, errands, and even business-casual settings. Whether worn with joggers or tailored trousers, it delivers both ease and elegance.

Zegna Triple Stitch

The Zegna Triple Stitch sneaker is a symbol of modern refinement. Designed for versatility, it offers the comfort of a slip-on with the sophistication of Italian tailoring. The signature triple-cross elastic detail pays tribute to Zegna’s heritage, echoing the hand stitches found in their suits. Made from the finest leather or suede, this shoe is lightweight, soft, and built to move with ease. It slips on effortlessly,

making it ideal for travel or quick transitions between meetings and leisure.The Triple Stitch reflects the new definition of business casual: sharp, adaptable, and comfortable. Its appeal lies in its quiet confidence. Whether styled with a blazer or weekend denim, it communicates taste without trying too hard. Zegna has managed to create a shoe that feels both luxurious and practical bridging old-world craftsmanship with contemporary style.

Tod’s Gommino Loafers

The Tod’s Gommino Loafer is timeless Italian sophistication at its most relaxed. Crafted from supple leather or suede and finished with the brand’s signature pebbled rubber sole, it defines laid-back elegance. Each pair takes over a hundred steps to make, reflecting the meticulous craftsmanship Tod’s is known for. The pebbled sole offers grip and comfort, while the lightweight build makes it ideal for driving, strolling, or casual dinners. It’s best worn without socks, giving it that effortless summer appeal.The Gommino pairs beautifully with linen, chinos, or tailored separates. It captures the spirit of Italian sprezzatura—looking impeccable without seeming to try. Whether in Lagos, Capri, or Cannes, the message remains the same: refined, easy, and confident.

Gucci Horsebit Loafers

The Gucci Horsebit Loafer is a legend in men’s fashion. First introduced in 1953, it has become one of the most iconic shoes in luxury history. Its signature gold horsebit detail gives it instant recognition while maintaining timeless elegance.Crafted from smooth Italian leather, it offers structure, comfort, and style in equal measure. The loafer works effortlessly with a suit, jeans, or tailored shorts, adapting to both formal and casual looks. It has been worn by generations of stylish men, proving that true design never fades. What sets the Horsebit apart is its balance. It carries the authority of a dress shoe with the ease of a loafer, making it a wardrobe essential for the modern man. To own a pair is to own a piece of fashion history—a symbol of taste, heritage, and enduring sophistication.

HOW TO BUILD A HOME THAT LOOKS LIKE YOU, NOT A TREND

We’ve all been there — scrolling endlessly through Pinterest or Instagram, saving photos of homes that look like they belong to some effortlessly chic stranger with perfect lighting and a houseplant that never dies. Suddenly, you’re convinced your living room needs boucle chairs, a gallery wall, and a hint of “Scandiminimalism.” But pause for a second. Does any of that actually look like you? Or does it just look like the rest of the internet?

The truth is, a beautiful home isn’t one that mirrors a trend — it’s one that mirrors you. The best interiors tell stories. They reflect where you’ve been, what you love, and how you live. And while trends can inspire you, they shouldn’t define your space. So how do you create a home that feels authentic — a space that looks curated, not copied?

Here’s how to start.

1. Forget “aesthetic,” focus on feeling

When people talk about home design, they often start with aesthetics — modern, boho, minimalist, coastal, whatever’s hot on social media. But before you start labelling your style, think about how you want your home to feel. Do you want it to be calm and cocoon-like, or energetic and full of colour? Cosy or elegant? Start from emotion, not image. That clarity will guide your choices better than any trend ever could.

If you want serenity, maybe skip the statement wallpaper and focus on natural textures — linen, wood, soft lighting. If you crave vibrancy, mix bold hues, patterns, and art that makes you smile. The goal isn’t to recreate someone else’s mood board; it’s to build a space that greets you like an old friend every time you walk in.

2. Curate, don’t collect Resist the urge to buy everything that looks “Instagram-worthy.” Instead, think of your home as a slow-growing collection of stories. That ceramic vase from a local artist, the side table you inherited from your aunt, the art print from your first solo trip — these are the pieces that make your home uniquely yours. When you choose items with meaning, they naturally blend, even if they’re not from the same trend cycle. Your home becomes a reflection of time, travel, and taste — not a showroom of fleeting fads. Design, after all, should feel lived in, not performed.

3. Layer your personality

A home that looks like you has layers of texture, memory, and mood. So don’t be afraid to mix eras, colours, or materials. Pair an antique chair with a sleek sofa. Hang your child’s drawing beside fine art. Stack coffee table books next to your grandmother’s porcelain figurine. Those contrasts tell people who you are — and more importantly, remind you who you are.

The trick is balance. If something feels “off,” step back and look at scale, not style. Often, what’s missing is proportion or flow — not taste. Your home doesn’t have to make sense to anyone but you.

4. Edit like a stylist

Creating a home that feels personal doesn’t mean it has to feel cluttered. Editing is just as important as decorating. Every few months, take a walk through your space and ask yourself what still makes you happy. Anything that doesn’t? Move it along. Whether you donate it, repurpose it, or store it, clearing space makes room for evolution. Think of your home like your wardrobe, pieces you truly love will always work, no matter the season.

5. Take your time

Good homes aren’t built in a weekend. They evolve. The mistake most people make is rushing the process — trying to have everything “done” at once. But your space should grow with you. Let it breathe. Live in it for a while before deciding where that art should hang or what rug fits best. You might be surprised how your taste settles once the pressure to finish fades. There’s a quiet confidence in a home that doesn’t look “new” — one that carries the slow patina of life and laughter. Let yours earn it.

6. Embrace imperfection

Perfect is boring. A scratch on the dining table, a mismatched cushion, or a corner filled with books you’ll “get to someday” — those are the moments that make a house real. The goal isn’t flawlessness; it’s warmth. And sometimes, that means letting go of symmetry and letting your home feel human.

7. Trends can visit — just don’t let them move in There’s nothing wrong with being inspired by what’s trending. A little marble here, a curved edge there — go ahead. Just make sure you’re not building your entire identity around a moment that will vanish with the next algorithm shift. Use trends as seasoning, not the main course. The secret? Add what feels timeless to you.

JACQUELINE SUOWARI: THE ARTIST WHO DRAWS POWER, PRESENCE, AND WOMANHOOD

There’s a calm that fills the room when Jacqueline Suowari works. No background noise, no rush — just the quiet scratch of a biro making its way across paper. Line by line, stroke by stroke, she builds entire worlds out of ink. From a distance, her drawings look like photographs. Up close, they’re a galaxy of tiny marks, each one deliberate, layered, and alive.

Suowari has spent years perfecting this discipline. The ballpoint pen, that everyday tool, has become her signature instrument. “One experience, one stroke,” she likes to say, a phrase that captures both her patience and philosophy. Every piece takes months to finish. Sometimes, she’ll spend an entire day on a single section of hair or fabric. It’s not obsession; it’s reverence. Her work rewards slowness — and in a world that moves at the speed of scrolls, that in itself feels radical.

Suowari grew up in Nigeria, sketching before she even realised it could become a career. She studied Fine Art and Design at the University of Port Harcourt, majoring in painting, but it was the biro that pulled her in. It allowed her to control detail and texture in a way brushes never could. What started as curiosity became commitment, and that commitment has turned her into one of the most recognisable voices in contemporary Nigerian art. Her large-scale portraits centre

the Black woman — not as muse or metaphor, but as subject and storyteller. These are not women waiting to be seen; they meet your gaze head-on. Their eyes hold quiet authority; their posture is grounded in pride. Draped in aso-oke, adire, george wrappers, and elaborate geles, they carry their heritage like a birthright. Suowari’s women are not performing tradition, they’re owning it.

Fashion, for her, is far more than fabric. It’s language. The details in her drawings, the head-tie folded just so, the coral beads that gleam across a neckline, the sheen of indigo-dyed cloth — are as expressive as words. Through them, she tells stories about belonging, identity, and continuity. When she unveiled Adorn in 2024, she made that conversation explicit. Nigerian fashion met European couture, not as mimicry but as dialogue. It was a reminder that African aesthetics have always stood shoulder to shoulder with global style, not behind it.

That same message runs through all her exhibitions. In 2021, Now I Wear Myself explored self-definition and

the act of becoming. The title alone sounded like a manifesto — identity as something worn deliberately, like a second skin. A year later, she presented The Way They See Us in London, a body of work that challenged how Black women are perceived and portrayed. By 2024, Adorn felt like a culmination, a visual thesis on heritage, elegance, and authorship.

“My drawings are like visual webs,” she once said. “Each layer of lines represents a different experience or aspect of a person.”

That’s what makes her portraits feel alive — they’re built on the logic of accumulation. A thousand lines for a cheekbone. A thousand more for fabric. The result is not just a likeness; it’s a record of time, patience, and care.

Hair, in particular, has become a kind of architecture in her work. Cornrows, twists, and threaded halos are rendered with precision that borders on devotion. Anyone who has grown up around hair-braiding knows what she’s capturing- the rhythm of care, the intimacy, the storytelling that happens between the hands that braid and the head

that receives. In Nigerian culture, hairstyles have always carried meaning. They signal age, status, mood, and occasion. Suowari translates that into art. Each braid becomes a line of history, each knot a small act of preservation.

Her process mirrors the same devotion you find in traditional crafts — the weaving of aso-oke, the dyeing of adire, the stringing of coral beads. She works standing for hours, layering thousands of pen strokes until the surface begins to glow. It’s both physical and emotional labour.

“Drawing reveals the countless hours it takes to achieve perfection in my eyes,” she’s said — and you see those hours gathered in every inch of her work.

What’s striking is how her art manages to feel grand and personal at once. Her portraits are large, almost confrontational in scale, yet they carry warmth. Her women feel familiar — like people you could meet. You can imagine one walking into a Lagos gallery opening, another at a Benin City wedding, a third leading a meeting in a patterned blazer. They’re not frozen in symbolism; they’re part of

everyday life, stylish and self-aware.

That familiarity is part of her genius. Suowari has managed to make fine art feel intimate without losing its sophistication. She draws with the sensibility of someone documenting her own people, not performing them for an audience. And that difference is what gives her work its integrity.

Suowari’s rise in the art world has been steady rather than explosive, fitting for someone whose practice is built on patience. Her work has been shown across Lagos, Abuja, London, Miami, and New York, drawing collectors and critics who are drawn to her precision and emotional depth. She, however, remains grounded, often referencing her early experiences as a Nigerian woman navigating the expectations of culture and modernity. What Jacqueline Suowari offers isn’t just beauty. It’s perspective. Through fabric, texture, and line, she reframes what it means to see Black women not as symbols of struggle or spectacle, but as whole, complex, and gloriously present. And that in itself is its own kind of masterpiece.