7 Emerging Fashion Brands to Watch in Lagos in 2025

Introduction

Lagos has long been a fashion powerhouse, blending traditional African craftsmanship with contemporary global influences. As the city continues to define trends on both the local and international stage, a new wave of emerging brands is taking center stage. From innovative ready-to-wear labels to sustainability-driven designers, these brands are shaping the future of Nigerian fashion.
Here are seven standout fashion brands that are poised for major breakthroughs in 2025—plus a bonus brand that ensures fashion lovers complete their looks with the perfect accessories.

1. Imata Studios (Founded 2024)
   Founder: Princess Adaobi Agwuna

Brand Aesthetic & Unique Selling Point:
Imata Studios is a ready-to-wear and custom clothing brand that celebrates bold self-expression through vibrant colors, statement-making designs, and inclusive sizing. Inspired by founder Adaobi Agwuna’s years in Asia, the brand infuses rich cultural influences into its pieces, creating garments that are both striking and globally relevant. Sustainability is a core pillar, with a strong focus on upcycling and collaboration with local artisans.

Notable Achievements:

• Worn by global supermodel Alaato Jayzper (Chanel, Gucci, Fenty, Tom Ford, Valentino, Saint Laurent) and Nigerian actress/TV host Osas Ighodaro on major stages.
• Accepted into the Fashionomics Africa Incubator Program 2024, a prestigious accelerator for emerging fashion entrepreneurs.
• Imata Studios Is A fast-growing brand that has garnered attention for its commitment to inclusivity, promoting the hashtag #curvyconfidence to celebrate all body types

Why It’s a Brand to Watch in 2025:

With celebrity endorsements, a strong brand identity, and a commitment to sustainability and inclusivity, Imata Studios is not just creating fashion—it’s shaping a movement.

2. Orange Culture (Founded 2011)
   Founder: Adebayo Oke-Lawal

Brand Aesthetic & Unique Selling Point:
Orange Culture has redefined Nigerian fashion with its androgynous aesthetic, blending traditional African prints with contemporary silhouettes. The brand is known for pushing gender norms and championing fluid fashion.

Notable Achievements:

• Finalist for the LVMH Prize for Young Fashion Designers (2014).
• Showcased at London Fashion Week and featured in Vogue, GQ, and The New York Times.
• A strong advocate for self-expression and inclusivity in fashion.

Why It’s a Brand to Watch in 2025:
With its continuous innovation and international recognition, Orange Culture is a driving force in modern African fashion.

3. Lisa Folawiyo (Founded 2005)
   Founder: Lisa Folawiyo

Brand Aesthetic & Unique Selling Point:
Known for transforming traditional Ankara fabric into luxury fashion, Lisa Folawiyo is a master of embellishment, creating intricate, hand-beaded designs with a contemporary edge.

Notable Achievements:

• Featured in Vogue, Elle, and The Business of Fashion.
• Celebrities like Lupita Nyong’o and Solange Knowles have worn her designs.
• Has showcased collections in New York, Paris, and Lagos Fashion Weeks.

Why It’s a Brand to Watch in 2025:
Lisa Folawiyo continues to elevate African textiles to a global luxury status, making her one of the most influential designers from Nigeria.

4. Iamisigo (Founded 2009)
   Founder: Bubu Ogisi

Brand Aesthetic & Unique Selling Point:
Iamisigo is known for its minimalist yet conceptual designs, using handwoven fabrics and traditional African techniques to create wearable art. The brand champions sustainability and the preservation of indigenous craftsmanship.

Notable Achievements:

• Showcased at Lagos Fashion Week, Arise Fashion Week, and Paris Fashion Week.
• Featured in Vogue Italia and Dazed Magazine.
• A leader in the slow fashion movement in Africa.

Why It’s a Brand to Watch in 2025:
With the growing global emphasis on ethical fashion, Iamisigo is well-positioned to be at the forefront of the sustainability movement.

5. Ejiro Amos Tafiri (Founded 2010)
   Founder: Ejiro Amos Tafiri

Brand Aesthetic & Unique Selling Point:
Ejiro Amos Tafiri’s designs are elegant, fluid, and deeply inspired by traditional Nigerian drapery techniques. The brand specializes in timeless, feminine silhouettes that flatter all body types.

Notable Achievements:

• A staple brand in African red carpet fashion.
• Showcased at major African fashion weeks.
• Strong celebrity clientele and widespread media recognition.

Why It’s a Brand to Watch in 2025:
With a perfect balance of tradition and modernity, Ejiro Amos Tafiri continues to define contemporary African elegance.

6. Atafo (Founded 2007)
   Founder: Mai Atafo

Brand Aesthetic & Unique Selling Point:
Atafo is a luxury menswear and womenswear brand known for its impeccable tailoring, elegant eveningwear, and innovative wedding designs.

Notable Achievements:

• Has dressed countless African celebrities.
• Featured in Forbes, CNN, and The Guardian.
• A go-to designer for weddings and high-fashion events.

Why It’s a Brand to Watch in 2025:

Atafo continues to be the gold standard in bespoke African fashion, ensuring it remains a major industry player.

7. Nkwo (Founded 2007)
   Founder: Nkwo Onwuka

Brand Aesthetic & Unique Selling Point:
Nkwo is at the forefront of sustainable fashion in Nigeria, using eco-friendly processes such as upcycling and hand-weaving to create contemporary, artisanal pieces.

Notable Achievements:

• Developed the Dakala fabric, a unique textile made from repurposed materials.
• A leader in the zero-waste fashion movement in Africa.
• Featured in global sustainability forums and exhibitions.

Why It’s a Brand to Watch in 2025:

With the increasing demand for ethical fashion, Nkwo is a pioneer in sustainable luxury, making it an essential brand for the future.

Bonus Brand: The Style Unit – Luxury Shopping & Sourcing

Why It’s a Must-Know Name in 2025

Fashion isn’t complete without the right accessories. While the seven brands listed above focus on clothing, The Style Unit ensures that every outfit is perfectly complemented with luxury accessories and curated fashion pieces.

As a premium shopping and sourcing brand, The Style Unit specializes in high-end accessories, designer pieces, and exclusive fashion finds. Their personalized approach to sourcing allows fashion lovers to access rare and luxury items tailored to their individual styles.

By featuring The Style Unit, this list highlights the full scope of Lagos fashion—from clothing to accessories—ensuring that every style enthusiast has access to the best in luxury fashion.

Final Thoughts

The Lagos fashion scene is thriving, with designers redefining African fashion on a global scale. Whether through bold aesthetics, sustainability, or impeccable craftsmanship, these brands are shaping the future of style. Keep an eye on them in 2025—they are set to make waves.