I’ve had my eye on several pieces from various African brands for a minute now, and this is me finally putting my wishlist in writing. Consider this a curated list of outfits I’m actively manifesting and, hopefully, shopping my way through this year.

Bawsty

Starting off strong with this pink serenade sling-shoulder dress from Bawsty. My love for this dress is because it looks like a painting. I'm addicted to dresses that look like art, and Bawsty has that covered. Plus, if you own a Bawsty dress, then you know one of their signatures is soft and comforting dresses, who doesn’t want that?

Hertunba

I saw this on the runway, and the sense of regality hit immediately. Using Aṣọ òkè to construct a face feels imaginative in a very intentional way. Put me in this Dona top and Jerry pants, then give me a crown, and I’ll feel complete. Plus, the structured silhouette is amazing.

Kilentar

With the Mimi top, it’s less about the full beading in cohesive warm tones, even though that adds to the beauty. What really draws me in is how soft it feels to touch. I’m very particular about how clothes feel on my skin, and when I encountered this piece at Kilentar’s showcase, the texture alone sold it for me.

Mulãwwan

Mulãwwan is a new brand that I recently discovered, and the Oruma dress is one of my favorites. It’s whimsical and in my favorite shade of purple. There’s no need for more explanation than that.

Àso Nigeria

Model in Plisse corset top and Airy skirt by Aso Nigeria

These pieces combined are extravagant in the best way, which is exactly why I want it. I’m naturally extra, and I don’t own nearly enough outfits that match that energy. The orange metallic of the Plisse corset top alone is enough to stun.

Riran

I used to have a favorite Riran look, but this Ara piece in purple has completely taken its place. The cape alone sold me, especially because I associate capes with heavy pieces and not a light, backless top. Add bright purple, which is my favorite color, and it becomes everything I love about Riran’s pieces. I want it in blue, pink, and every color Riran has because if there’s one thing Riran does flawlessly, it’s color.

Kadiju

When I saw this outfit on Kadiju’s runway, I was immediately hooked. Colour is clearly a big one for me, and this shade of blue hits the mark perfectly. The ruffled detailing on this shirt only adds to its appeal. It’s dramatic, expressive, and impossible to ignore.

FIA

Model on runway in half-woven dungarees by FIA

What drew me to these half-woven dungarees is their silhouette. It’s well crafted in a way that feels flattering, like it would look beautiful on anyone who wears it, myself included.

Melira

I want to look like a walking piece of art, and this Melira swan dress does exactly that. From the first time I saw it, I knew it would be stunning on anyone, and it has looked stunning on everyone I’ve seen wear it.

Anko

The back of this outfit is the moment. As someone with back rolls, I appreciate anything that highlights them beautifully rather than hides them. Picture this Tassel dress on a beach somewhere far from Lagos.

LFJ

If there’s one thing LFJ consistently gets right, it’s creating pieces that hold your attention and refuse to let go. The balance between structure and flexibility here makes this Diagin unforgettable. Also, the drama? Yes please.

Lisa Folawiyo

This Denim Multi-Fringe dress is beautiful on its own, but the added flair makes it even more special. It’s the kind of piece that works effortlessly for a date or a wedding. It’s a great go-to dress that I need in my wardrobe.

Adore Her

Picking my favorite piece from Adore Her was a bit difficult because I’m addicted to their choice of fabric. This pink patterned Adore Her dress stole my heart. It’s flowery, pink, and flowy, and that’s almost everything I love in a dress.

Nyosi

This is a classic two-piece. The Nyosi logo baby tee and brown Fifi maxi skirt vibe is old school but refined, and I love it. I love a good baby tee paired with a boho skirt; it’s perfect for my dream earthy-girl aesthetic.

Ojúde Aṣọ

The colours and patterns on the Omoge Ìbílẹ̀ skirt are completely mesmerising. Every time I see it, I find something new to admire, and I remain thoroughly captivated.

M.O.T The Label

When I was younger, my cousin owned an outfit made from a similar fabric, and I remember wanting it so badly. This Hassana midi dress brings back that memory. It reminds me so much of a better time, and that’s why I want it.

Nitémi

I first saw the Kika top on Dodos, a fashion influencer, and immediately had to ask if I could touch it. The softness took me straight back to the cardboard mat I made in junior school. It carries the kind of nostalgia only hand-crafted pieces can.

For Style Sake (FSS)

If there’s a clear theme running through this list, it’s my love for fabric. The colours on this Apinkie Tie Dye Maxi dress and the way they blend together feel rich and intentional.

Ìsàle Èkó From Derin

Model in ‘Drop Shoulder’ dress by Isale Eko

Choosing just one piece from Isalẹ̀ Èkó was incredibly difficult. Every design they make feels stunning. For now, though, this drop shoulder dress takes the lead. The colours and patterns are lush and full of life.

Kwelaku

This is one of those outfits that speaks for itself. The colour alone on this Jelly Asymmetrical skirt explains why I want it. It’s very stunning, and I need that in my wardrobe.

Asiko Studio

I can’t fully explain why the Omi ‘Tuntun piece draws me in, but it does. There’s an unmistakable sense that it was made for me, and sometimes that feeling is reason enough.

Desiree Iyama

A life filled with honey is a sweet one, and I’m superstitious enough to want this dress for that reason alone. Between the bees and the honeycomb texture, the Nectarine mini dress feels symbolic and beautifully made.

There you have it, the 22 outfits on my wishlist! If you have any of these pieces in your wardrobe, please invite me to your house. I promise not to take them home.

22 Outfits On My Wishlist