There’s something electric about getting dressed for an occasion — the anticipation, the outfit planning, the self-care rituals that make you feel unstoppable. Whether it’s a wedding, a party or an intimate dinner, event dressing is less about the dress and more about the energy. It’s how you show up, how you command a room and how you make the moment yours. In this edition of What Vanessa is wearing, Vanessa takes us behind the scenes of her most memorable event looks.
If you could raid any celebrity’s wardrobe for a red carpet event, whose would it be and why?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! I’ve always admired how Tracee Ellis Ross puts her outfits together, she’s fearless with color and silhouettes. Her wardrobe feels like a celebration of personality, even though I wouldn’t say there’s one particular piece I’d like to own. When it comes to timeless elegance, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and Jasmine Tookes are two models I look to for inspiration. Their looks are always clean, feminine, and sophisticated. But if we’re talking red carpet? Zendaya never misses. Her looks are typically bold, unexpected, and fashion-forward.
What’s the most unforgettable outfit you’ve ever worn to an event — what made it so special?
Definitely my friend’s wedding in Egypt, where I was a bridesmaid. I wore a lilac batwing dress with a matching turban, and I’ve never felt more regal.
The outfit was modest but dramatic in its own way, it flowed beautifully, and the color was so soft and elegant. It reminded me that modest dressing doesn’t mean boring.
Have you ever had a last-minute outfit disaster before a big occasion? How did you fix it?
Yes! This happened at my cousin’s wedding in Abuja. I’d sent my measurements to a tailor and didn’t have time to try the dress on until the morning of the wedding.
When I finally did, the rope for the corset was way too short — it couldn’t be tied all the way up. The back of the dress was basically hanging open.
I had to think fast. Thankfully, there was some extra material from the lace, so I turned it into a scarf and draped it over my shoulders to hide the back. It ended up looking intentional—like it was always part of the look. That’s when I learned the importance of improvisation and having a backup plan… or at least some extra fabric!
What’s your secret to making an affordable outfit look like a designer masterpiece?
Two words: good tailoring. You can buy something inexpensive, but if it fits you perfectly, it instantly looks elevated. Honestly, a lot of designer clothes are either poorly made or just uninspired, so I try not to get caught up in labels.
Instead, I focus on what flatters my body and which fabrics will last beyond one season. Materials like linen, crepe, and structured cotton always give that “expensive” vibe when styled right. Add a confident walk and clean accessories, and no one will know your outfit wasn’t triple digits.
If you had to dress for a mystery event with zero details given, what’s your fail-safe look?
All black, with gold accessories. Black is sleek, elegant, and perfect for almost anything. A black dress or tailored pants and a black top always work, and gold jewelry adds just the right touch of glam. When in doubt, go for an all black ensemble.
