Keep scrolling to view all the stunning runway looks from day five.

Over the last four days, more than fifty African designers have showcased on the runway, presenting functional collections woven with craftsmanship and innovation. While some designers have pushed boundaries with jaw-dropping presentations, stirring emotions with their impeccable storytelling, others stuck with what worked for them. Fashion, after all, is meant to be expressive in whatever way. On day five, which marked the end of the Spring-Summer 26 season, four designers took their catwalk to different locations across the city, exploring cultural spaces as an avenue for creativity and conveyance.

Wanni Fuga

Wanni Fuga’s ethos revolves around creating pieces that make women feel confident, and this season she proves that. Fuga’s Spring-Summer collection, titled “ÈKÓ ÈLAN: Holiday’25,” draws inspiration from the city of Lagos. Pieces echo the city’s cultural motifs—the traditional Eyo masquerade and the yellow buses were printed as emblems on prints. Kaftans, swimwear, dresses with feathery details, and menswear in lively prints topped off with turbans and coral beads commanded the runway. And the standout piece—a twist on the popular Yoruba iro and buba. Picture the buba with feathery details in textured black prints.

Ejiro Amos Tafiri

Ejiro Amos Tafiri’s fifteen-year showcase was a maximalist affair, with over ninety looks ranging from womenswear, menswear, and kids’ clothing. Titled “Odyssey” and also held at J. Randle Centre for Yorùbá Culture and History, looks ranged from textured colorful organza fabrics transformed into dresses with embroidery, bodycon bedazzled dresses, and kaftans. For menswear, Tafiri designed plunging-neck kaftans and native wear layered with sheer outerwear. She also experimented with sculptural pleating that aided movement on the runway.

Orange Culture

The collection was a love letter to the designer’s late mother, who passed away a year ago. Requiem songs played softly as models walked in white, dressed in off-shoulder suits, flowing tulle, and floral-painted fabrics that spoke of memory and grace. The atmosphere was emotional and almost spiritual. Cross-shaped blouses caught the light, faces dusted in glittering white. Metallic details shimmered against maxi pants, while seashells added softness. Each look moved like a gentle prayer, transforming grief into beauty. It was tender, luminous, and deeply personal—a moving tribute that turned loss into something quietly everlasting.

Kadiju

Kadiju’s show opened with a blue maxi puffer dress, followed by a black swan-inspired piece with tulle details and a white net dress with a daring slit. Then came a splash of purple, denim paired with a crop top and maxi skirt, and the signature pink Kadiju dress with puffy shoulders. It marked a new era for the brand—bold yet nostalgic. Menswear took a softer, traditional turn: barefoot models in relaxed two-pieces and jumpsuits. Hair and makeup were Afrocentric, merging African and Asian influences. Kadiju balanced eras beautifully, blending 1980s Nigerian flair with a modern, millennial spirit through textures, ruffles, and dotted dresses.

Moment of the Day

At Wanni Fuga’s show, held at J. Randle Centre for Yorùbá Culture and History, before the show began, there was a traditional presentation. Dancers in traditional aso-oke thrilled guests with a performance. Eyo masquerades and the three “Welcome to Lagos” statues were also part of the minute-long display. We also spotted Afrobeat superstar Tiwa Savage seated in the front row.

One Short Trend

At Ejiro Amos Tafiri, models wore their hair in a turban-like style, and at Wanni Fuga, the brand’s signature turban accessories were also present on the runway. Through hairstyle and accessories, this trend was a mainstay on day five.

Photos: Dan Torey