When we were younger, we looked down on certain fashion styles—like iro and buba—and some of us even cried when forced to wear them. Today, those same styles have become staples we embrace without hesitation.
Like history repeating itself, fashion has come full circle. What once felt “old school” is now being reimagined on runways, at parties, and on the streets.
In 2025, Nigerian fashion is experiencing a cultural revival. Classics like aso oke, adire, threading, lace, iro and buba, and even oleku are making a stylish comeback.
These timeless pieces are no longer just a nod to tradition; they are being reinvented with modern cuts, bold colours, and Gen Z creativity.
Without further ado, here are the fashion pieces that have found their way back into today’s style scene:
Aso Oke
Remember when Aso Oke was reserved for weddings or grand occasions? Well, it’s back—but with a twist.
Designers are reimagining the heavy, ceremonial fabric in lighter, modern weaves and bold colours. They are turning it into skirts, cargo pants, blazers, and even shoes and handbags. Now, people are styling Aso Oke with simple shirts or jeans, making it versatile, stylish, and perfectly suited for 2025.
Adire
Adire used to be a tie-dye fabric typically seen in shades of indigo, purple, or green. Today, it’s making a major comeback in bold, playful colours and experimental patterns.
From maxi dresses to edgy streetwear, Adire has moved from the traditional marketplace to high-fashion runways. The best part? It works for casual outfits as effortlessly as it does for formal wear, proving that Adire is not just culture—it’s timeless style with a modern twist.
Lace
In the past, lace wasn’t a favourite for many—it was often heavy, itchy, and a burden to wear.
Today, lace is returning with softer textures, brighter shades, and contemporary cuts. No longer confined to stiff ceremonial outfits, lace now appears everywhere. Singer Falz has become a face of this resurgence, often stepping out in eye-catching colours and unexpected styles, transforming lace into a statement piece. Suddenly, it feels new and fashionable again.
Iro and Buba
The Iro and Buba were once considered “old school,” an outfit reserved for aunties and older women at traditional events. But as fashion evolves, this timeless Yoruba attire has returned to the spotlight, embraced by a younger generation.
Today, the classic wrapper-and-blouse combo has been reimagined with contemporary tailoring. Younger women are now wearing it with shorter or longer wrappers, fitted tops, and even sashes to accentuate the waist and add a chic edge.
Threading (Kiko)
There was a time when Kiko, or hair threading, was every girl’s nightmare because of the discomfort involved.
Now, it is making a stylish comeback—no longer dreaded, but admired. It’s appearing on fashion runways, in photoshoots, and on red carpets. Young women are embracing it, with some even adding beads for a modern twist.
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