The holiday spirit can’t be tamed. Like a virus, it’s infective enough to overpower even the saltiest Grinch. Amidst the poultry-rush and the ultimate-ingredient-search, there’s the flashy fashion – A-games have to be brought.
Being a kid in Nigeria, inherently guarantees a salivating, eye bulging, determined crave for Christmas clothes. This Christmas prerequisite falls behind the great Jollof rice and Chicken – which stands in first place, undefeated. Besides, no one wants to go see Father Christmas in old clothes, bragging to friends would be incomplete.
Being an adult in Nigeria, means you’re laden with the responsibility to look better than the five year old version of yourself, sitting on the lap of a pot-bellied, white-bearded man in red. Having one or more events to grace, and aiming to be the talk of the social media town ipso facto implies your outfit has to make the loudest statement, something like: “look, I spent a fortune on this outfit, so make me trend dammit!”
Sometimes, getting it right can be as daunting as rocket science, but these sure tips would help you conquer the holiday in style.
Thanksgiving parties
Gratitude is the inward feeling of kindness received.
Thankfulness is the natural impulse to express that feeling.
Thanksgiving is the following of that impulse
– Henry Van Dyke
Thanksgiving parties are familiar gatherings, that is, with family, friends and/or church members. Ergo, getting into comfortable clothes, especially one that allows for unrestricted movement (as per Shoki), and a bit of pot belly (because… gluttony), is necessary. Opt for fluidal fabrics like, Silk, Crepe De Chine, Chiffon, Cotton Voile, Rayon Challis…
From bleh bedroom onesies, to stylish Jumpsuits. Lucky for us, our craving for this trend hasn’t fizzled out just yet. Get some style-inspiration from this piece by design label, Amede, which is a perfect day (or night) look for time spent with family and friends.
Gents are embracing pastels in its entire subtlety. This casual-ish pastel and white number by designer, Kelechi Odu, vibes all things fun.
A bit of Ankara never hurt nobody. Pairing an Ankara top with an A-line tulle skirt – as seen on the model – is the perfect combo to get your praise on in church.
Monochrome never gets boring. Designer, Papa Omisore, proved it at the 2015 Lagos Fashion and Design Week. For a spiff church look, tap into these polar yet complementary sartorial hues. However, you can cop the gladiator sandals – as seen on the model, or replace with a dress shoe.
Work Parties
Most establishments end the year turnt up, even in the direst economic times. Habitually, dress codes are giving, nevertheless, fashion is flexible enough to accommodate personal style, which means rules don’t necessarily guarantee adherence.
Who says you need le sizzling suit to look le dapper, huh? Grab a suspender, pair with a bowtie and voila, you’re party ready!
Orange is the new black, indeed. Sure, the little black dress has always been a party grab-choice, not anymore. Make a colourful statement, instead, with a little orange dress.
Carnivals
Who wouldn’t love carnivals? The groovy music; the bright colours, the dazzling outfits; the ‘turn-down-for-what’ disposition, It’s impossible to resist. And you get to live out your ‘barely there’ style fantasy without the prying stares of style-saints and intrusive tugging from perverts. In this case, less is best.
This Loza Maleombho piece is the perfect combination of cool, colourful and comfy. For a similar look, attempt colour-blocking by fusing dissimilar-coloured individual pieces together.
Designer, Stella Jean, famous for her print-play and matchup, uses vibrancy as a springboard for her designs. Hence, the perfect carnival style-muse. Aim for similar vibrancy by print-blocking.
Concerts
Without music, life would be a mistake.
– Fredrick Nietzsche
The next best thing, besides being thankful, is unwinding the year seeing your favourite artists performing your favourite songs, and ignoring the dent it made to your bank account. Concerts vary based on location and timing, and although it’s pertinent to be in the appropriate clothes, assured you can never go wrong in a pair of great jeans.
Flares are back! Get on board this 90’s train, pair with a stylish t-shirt, pack on the accessories and you’re good to go.
Again, jeans never fail to rise to the occasion. Subject to your preference, either pair with a long shirt – as seen on the model, or a shorter shirt. Complete the look with a blazer or leather jacket.
Just let your holiday style-spirit soar!