Luxury Nigerian Designers to Know in 2023

Nigeria has been on her A-game, making trailblazing feats in all industries, and fashion is one of them. From hand-embroidered garments to culturally inspired prints and even basic street wear, the diversity of Nigeria's culture, people, and spirit is embodied in every piece produced, whether by designers home and abroad. Over time several designers have garnered the attention of celebrities like Beyonce, Tiwa Savage, and Porsha Williams. Loose takes a look at Nigerian designers to know in 2023.

@matopeda.atelier on Instagram

Matopedier Atelier

Founded by Matopeda (Tope) King, a Nigerian-British designer, Matopedier Atelier is one of the top choices for Nigerians looking for elevated and stunning wedding or evening dresses. The brand offers ready-to-wear or custom-made dresses that can be shipped anywhere in the world. Known for details like fringe, crystals, and beads, these elements allow each wearer to feel as unique and inspired as the clothes they wear. The designs take on a glamorous silhouette detail, providing mesh colours that work stunningly on dark skin.

@atafo.official on Instagram

Atafo Official

Coming off it’s SS23 showcase, Atafo Official (formerly Mai Atafo) is a menswear brand specialising in bespoke tailored suits for men, however has since dipped their toe into the wedding market, extending their services to all of the clothing necessities for a fabulous wedding. Founded by Mai Atafo, Atafo Official is recognised as the leading brand for menswear, known for its timeless and sophisticated aesthetic. Launched in November, the SS23 collection features looks that blend Nigerian fabric which provides comfort and style while being chic and stylish. It is tailored to elevate the look of everyone, from the average Nigerian to the working class lady, or the red-carpet-ready superstar.

@veekeejames_official on Instagram

Veekee James

Founded by Akwa Ibom born entrepreneur Victoria James, Veekee James is known for their sheer designs that are accompanied by corsets enhancing the female body, snatching waistlines and accentuating curves. Inspired by her fashion designer mother, Victoria started creating dresses as a child and her pieces reflect her timeless and elevated look that she portrays on Instagram. From couture to casual or corporate attire, Veekee James has proven that it is the fashion brand for it girls.

@tiannahsplacempire on Instagram

Tiannah’s Place Empire

When she’s not being commissioned by Disney to design the set looks for the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever Lagos premiere, you can find her creating her signature Transformer dress for elites in Lagos. Founded by Toyin Lawani, Tiannah’s Place Empire is the top brand Nigerians go for when looking for out-of-the-box designs ranging from costumes to red carpet ready looks. Popularly known as the King of Fashion, her transformer dresses are statement making; like the name suggests, she incorporates multiple dress styles into one, making this dress perfect for a bride looking to minimise cost by using one dress for all her wedding outfits.

Words by Uzamere Itohan

Edited by Lucy Eaton