It’s not news that fashion and beauty influencers have become the new authorities of style, dictating trends that resonate across social media and beyond. From Lagos to London, Accra to Paris, these trendsetters don’t just wear/showcase clothes, they make it art. Some of them in this article even support small business owners who are up and coming, showing that trends don’t necessarily have to stem from designer wear only. In this article, we delve into the favorite fashion wears and accessories of the reigning influencers, exploring their significance in today’s pop culture.
The Influencers
Nigerian Influencers:
– Toke Makinwa:
While she is a popular on-air personality, Toke Makinwa is also famed for her glamorous and daring fashion choices in the Nigerian style scene. Her love for vibrant colors and high-end brands makes her a top fashion influencer in the country with a following of 5.6 million on Instagram alone.
Whether it’s a red carpet event or a casual outing, she never fails to make a statement when she steps out. Her recent appearances, like the stunning red dress she wore for her 40th birthday emphasized her ability to blend elegance with boldness.
– Temi Otedola:
Temi Otedola is a fashion blogger and style maven with a knack for luxury and elegance. Her style is a fusion of classic and contemporary wear and they are often high-end brands and sophisticated pieces which her fans love seeing as she has amassed 2 million followers on Instagram.
International-wise, Temi has made significant strides as a fashion influencer when she recently debuted at Paris Fashion Week, walking the runway for Le Défilé L’Oréal Paris Spring-Summer 2025 show. This show marked a pivotal moment in her fashion career, showcasing her on an international stage alongside renowned personalities like Eva Longoria and Kendall Jenner.
– Chioma Ikokwu:
Chioma Ikokwu, who is otherwise known as Chioma Good Hair, is a prominent figure in Nigeria’s fashion and beauty industry. She co-founded Good Hair Ltd, a luxury hair brand, and Brass & Copper, a lifestyle restaurant and bar in Lagos but her influence extends beyond her business ventures.
She is known for her bold and audacious fashion statements, often making headlines with her unique and eye-catching outfits. Her style is characterized by vibrant colors, intricate, traditional designs, and a flair for the dramatic, solidifying her status as a fashion icon in Nigeria, especially in the Aso Ebi category where she showcases stunning African couture that blends traditional and contemporary styles.
In addition to her fashion influence, Chioma is also a social media personality and a cast member of the popular reality TV show “The Real Housewives of Lagos”. Her presence on social media platforms –Instagram particularly where she shares her fashion and lifestyle experiences, has garnered her a significant following (844 thousand plus) and solidified her status as a trendsetter.
International Influencers:
– Chiara Ferragni:
This Italian fashion icon is renowned for her eclectic and vibrant style – her outfits are a mix of high fashion and streetwear, making her much loved by a global audience. She combines luxury designer pieces with casual streetwear, creating looks that are both chic and approachable.
From her posts on Instagram to her almost 29 million followers, Chiara Ferragni has shown that she isn’t afraid to experiment with bold colors, patterns, and textures. Her wardrobe includes vibrant fur coats, leather miniskirts, Black blazers, crop tops, off shoulder tops and bralettes.
– Jihoon Kim:
This Gen z is a rising star in the fashion world, known for her impeccable style and influential presence. With a combined following of nearly 4 million on Instagram and TikTok, Jihoon has captivated audiences both in her native South Korea and internationally. Her ability to blend Korean style elegance with global fashion trends has made her a standout figure and one to watch out for.
Jihoon has worked with prestigious fashion houses such as Dior, Givenchy, Valentino, Fendi, Tom Ford, Prada, and Miu Miu. These collaborations show her refined fashion taste and the high regard in which she is held within the industry. Her ability to curate unique outfits and effortlessly pair luxury items with more accessible pieces sets her apart as a true fashion influencer.
Trending Fashion Wears and Accessories
Statement Pieces:
– Oversized Blazers: This one is a favorite among influencers like Chiara Ferragni, oversized blazers are great for creating a powerful yet stylish look and can be paired with anything from jeans to dresses.
– Bold Prints: Toke Makinwa and Chioma Ikokwu are often seen rocking bold, African prints that adding a touch of tradition to their outfits. These prints are not just eye-catching but also a reflection of cultural heritage and artistic expression.
Accessories:
– Chunky Gold Jewelry: Temi Otedola has been spotted wearing chunky gold jewelry. These pieces add a touch of luxury and sophistication to any outfit.
– Designer Handbags: From Toke’s collection of luxury handbags to Jihoon’s trendy picks, designer bags are a must-have accessory– if you can afford it, that is. They not only elevate an outfit but also make a statement about one’s personal style.
Footwear:
– Trendy Sneakers: Sneakers have become a staple in every influencer’s wardrobe. Jihoon often pairs her minimalist outfits with trendy sneakers, blending comfort with style.
– Classic Pumps: Temi Otedola’s love for classic pumps highlights the elegance of her looks. These shoes are versatile, timeless and perfect for any occasion.
Conclusion
As fashion continues to evolve, influencers remain at the forefront, shaping and redefining what it means to be stylish to a broader audience. By embracing diverse trends and promoting meaningful cultural narratives, they inspire us to not only look good but also feel good about our choices. Did I miss mentioning your favorite fashion influencer(s)?
