It’s no longer up for debate — Nigeria is the hub of high fashion in Africa. From the streets of Lagos to the global runways of Paris and New York, Nigerian designers are shaping the world’s understanding of African luxury. With events like the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) becoming as anticipated as the Met Gala for fashion enthusiasts across the continent, Nigeria continues to lead Africa’s fashion narrative — setting trends, breaking molds, and defining what it means to be stylish, unapologetically African, and globally relevant.
But the influence doesn’t stop at local awards shows. Nigerian designers are now dressing global icons, showing at the world’s most prestigious fashion events, and being featured in top publications like Vogue, CNN, and British Vogue. These moments are more than press hits — they reflect a growing movement where Nigerian creativity is not just being accepted globally but celebrated.
Here are 10 unforgettable times Nigerian fashion brands went overseas.
1. Ugo Mozie at the 2025 MET Gala
One of the most significant fashion moments of 2025 came courtesy of Ugo Mozie, the Nigerian-born designer and stylist whose work turned heads at the Met Gala. Under his fashion house Eleven Sixteen, Mozie brought the event’s heritage theme to life by dressing none other than Diana Ross in an ethereal, 18-foot train, white crystal-embellished gown topped with a dramatic feathered cape. The cape wasn’t just for show — it featured the embroidered names of her children and grandchildren, adding a deeply personal touch.
Mozie didn’t stop there. He styled Ross’s son Evan Ross, actor Colman Domingo, and celebrity chef Kwame Onwuachi, whose look featured a crown made from gemstones sourced in Nigeria and bronzes from Benin which was considered a strong nod to Nigerian craftsmanship.
In collaboration with BOSS, Mozie styled Khaby Lame in a grey three-piece suit with dangling pocket watches and dressed Alton Mason, James Corden, and Scott Evans in custom looks. His presence at the Met Gala didn’t just highlight Nigerian talent — it dominated the night.
2. Veekee James Dresses Bonang Matheba for Miss South Africa
Veekee James, the designer known for high-glamour and dramatic silhouettes, took her brand international when she dressed Bonang Matheba for the Miss South Africa 2024 pageant.
The dress was a viral hit across African media, with fans praising the Nigerian designer for perfectly capturing Bonang’s essence.
3. Sarah Jakes Roberts in Andrea Iyamah and Iyamah’s CNN Feature
Sarah Jakes Roberts, the renowned pastor, author, and global speaker, made a vibrant took on the vibrant country of Nigeria for the first time, spotted on Andrea Iyamah OWA Wooden Clutch and KASI Wooden Earrings.
Andrea Iyamah, known for her architectural swimwear and vibrant bridal/eveningwear, has become a go-to for powerful women around the world, including Ciara, Gabrielle Union, and Michelle Obama. Iyamah’s growing global influence was further affirmed in 2024 when she was featured on CNN International alongside Vekee James. The segment highlighted how Nigerian designers are rewriting the rules of global fashion, building brands from Lagos to the world without compromising identity or storytelling.
4. Orange Culture at the Met Gala
Adebayo Oke-Lawal, founder of Orange Culture, debuted at the Met Gala with actor Brian Tyree Henry, who wore a layered red suit under a textured red-and-gold coat. The look turned heads not just for its vibrancy, but for its deeper message — a fusion of gender fluidity, heritage, and defiance.
Since launching Orange Culture in 2010/2011, Oke-Lawal has pushed boundaries by blending Nigerian traditions with progressive storytelling. His work, featured in Vogue, The Guardian, The New York Times, and BET, explores masculinity, queerness, and African identity.
Notably, Orange Culture was the first Nigerian brand to be stocked at Selfridges, and has been worn by stars like Lupita Nyong’o, Dua Lipa, Tiwa Savage, and Ncuti Gatwa. The brand has also showcased at global fashion weeks and is now a staple in museums like the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.
5. Burna Boy and Naomi Campbell in Kenneth Ize
Kenneth Ize has become a flagbearer for modern African fashion. His signature use of handwoven Aso Oke in vibrant colors has made his designs instantly recognizable. From Naomi Campbell closing his runway show in a flowing fringe coat to Burna Boy rocking his pieces at global events, Ize has masterfully taken traditional textiles and made them fashion-forward.
His brand merges art, activism, and culture and it’s been featured in Grazia, Vogue, and other global publications.
6. Tubo in British Vogue and Shalom Blac’s Wedding
Tubo, the bridal and occasion wear label by Sandrah Tubobereni, was featured in British Vogue in October 2024 a landmark moment for any designer. Tubo’s elegant, body-sculpting designs have become synonymous with Nigerian luxury bridal fashion.
Influencer and beauty content creator Shalom Blac wore a custom Tubo gown for her Malibu elopement, blending glamour and storytelling. It wasn’t just a wedding dress — it was a showcase of Nigerian excellence in international bridal design.
Read: Tubo on British Vogue
7. Kai Collective in Vogue
Kai Collective, created by fashion blogger Fisayo Longe, captured the world’s attention with its viral “Gaia” print dress. But the brand’s moment in Vogue UK took it to a new level. Kai Collective is celebrated for its inclusive sizing, bold prints, and celebration of body confidence.
From London to Los Angeles, women everywhere are wearing Kai — proof that Nigerian fashion isn’t just admired, it’s worn. Vogue – Kai Collective
8. Michelle Obama in Duro Olowu
Duro Olowu, the Nigerian British designer known for clashing prints and graceful silhouettes, has long been a global favorite — and one of Michelle Obama’s go-to designers. His jackets and dresses have graced White House events, museum exhibitions, and global art circles.
His book Seeing and recent exhibitions have kept him in the global spotlight, with his designs also featured in the Smithsonian and Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago. CNN – Duro Olowu
9. Deji & Kola at the Met Gala
The 2025 Met Gala also featured rising Nigerian brand Deji & Kola, founded by Ayodeji Adebayo and Kolapo Olabintan. NFL star Jonathan Owens wore an all-white look with a knitted tuxedo jacket, flared trousers, and a fur shawl, all made with Nigerian Aso Oke.
Claire Sulmers, founder of Fashion Bomb Daily, wore a powerful red three-piece suit with a floor-length cape, also by the duo. Deji & Kola are proving that Nigerian menswear can hold its own on the most elite fashion stages.
10. Meghan Markle in Oríré
Rounding out the list is Meghan Markle, who wore a piece by Nigerian brand Oríré. The Duchess of Sussex’s endorsement introduced the brand to a global audience, earning it a feature in Vogue UK. Oríré is known for clean lines, romantic silhouettes, and a modern take on feminine dressing — a true example of how Nigerian fashion is evolving and expanding beyond borders. Vogue – Oríré
