In Full Bloom — Lagos Fashion Week 2025 officially kicked off today, marking the 15th anniversary of the continent’s leading fashion platform. It is a major milestone that celebrates fifteen years of shaping and spotlighting African creativity.
This year’s theme, “In Full Bloom,” captures the essence of growth, reflection, and forward momentum.
Day 1 began with the highly anticipated Fashion Business Series at the Federal Palace Hotel Ballroom. The sessions set the tone for a season dedicated to dialogue, innovation, and connection.
Discussions explored the evolution of African fashion, the mental well-being of creatives, and the growing influence of digital storytelling in defining Africa’s fashion narrative.
In Full Bloom: The Journey Thus Far — 15 Years of Lagos Fashion Week
Moderated by Ezinne Chinkata, Founder of Zinkata, the first session revisited Lagos Fashion Week’s journey. It also highlighted its profound role in building a sustainable ecosystem for African designers.
Panelists included Omoyemi Akerele (Founder and Executive Director, Style House Files & Lagos Fashion Week), Sarah Agha (Marketing Director, Nigerian Breweries PLC), Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka (Chief Marketing Officer, MTN Nigeria), Hazel Aggrey-Orleans (Founder and Creative Director, Eki Silk), and Oyindamola Aleshinloye (Founder and Creative Director, Kadiju).
Reflecting on the journey, Omoyemi Akerele emphasized the three C’s that shaped Lagos Fashion Week’s vision — Community, Collaboration, and Co-Creation.
Meanwhile, Hazel Aggrey-Orleans shared fond memories of her early runway experiences in 2012. She noted how Lagos Fashion Week has consistently provided opportunities for African designers to thrive and gain global visibility.
In Full Bloom: Mental Health, Creatives, and the New Normal
The second session, moderated by Adaeze Oguzie (Project Director, Lagos Fashion Week), focused on the growing importance of mental health in the creative industry.
Panelists included Dr. Chi-Chi (Chiedu) Obuaya (Consultant Psychiatrist), Dr. Kafayah Ogunsola (Founder and CEO, EmpathySpace Therapy Hub), and Demola Mako (Photographer and Visual Storyteller).
The discussion underscored the need for balance, resilience, and awareness as creatives navigate the fast-paced demands of fashion.
In addition, it highlighted the importance of community support and open conversations around mental wellness.
In Full Bloom: Cultural Power and Digital Influence in African Fashion
Presented by Fashion Lab and Evolve, this engaging session explored how digital creators are amplifying the reach and relevance of African fashion.
It was moderated by Nneka Michel, with panelists Frilancy Hoyle, Funmi Ford, and Eni Given Sunday leading the conversation.
The panelists shared insights on authenticity, visibility, and the power of digital storytelling.
As Eni noted, “Having the right structure and a clear story helps your audience connect with you. That’s how you stay authentic.”
Furthermore, the conversation revealed how collaboration between influencers and designers can accelerate the growth of African fashion on the global stage.
In Full Bloom: The Power of Purpose and Creative Expression
The final session featured a fireside chat with Somkele Idhalama, Chief Purpose Officer at Andrea Iyamah and Co-founder of Backam.
She explored the intersection of purpose, identity, and creativity in today’s fashion industry.
The discussion encouraged fashion entrepreneurs and emerging designers to align their creative expression with a deeper sense of meaning and direction.
As a result, attendees left inspired to lead from a place of clarity and purpose.
In Full Bloom: Lagos Fashion Week 2025 Welcome Party
The day concluded with the Heineken Lagos Fashion Week 2025 Welcome Party, hosted by Moët & Chandon at Mr. Panther.
Later in the evening, guests enjoyed an exclusive after-party at Boho Fashion Lounge.
Designers, industry leaders, and fashion enthusiasts came together to celebrate the season’s opening. The atmosphere was filled with excitement, creativity, and collaboration.
Overall, it was a night that perfectly embodied the theme — Lagos Fashion Week 2025 is truly In Full Bloom.
About Lagos Fashion Week 2025
Lagos Fashion Week 2025 is proudly title sponsored by Heineken and supported by Lush Hair, Nivea, Bank of Industry, Meta (Facebook), Afreximbank, African Finance Corporation, MTN, the Lagos State Government, Moët & Chandon, and Style House Files.
For more details, visit lagosfashionweek.ng or follow @lagosfashionweekofficial on Instagram and @LFW_NG on X (Twitter).
