Temi Otedola Commands the Runway in All-Black Glam for L’Oréal Paris

Paris Fashion Week always aims for a spectacular start, but the opening day of the Spring/Summer 2026 shows took things to a whole new level.

The L’Oréal Paris show, held at the historic Paris City Hall, felt more like a grand cultural event than a typical fashion show. The runway was filled with familiar stars: Kendall Jenner walked with her usual grace, Eva Longoria looked stunningly poised, and Heidi Klum brought her signature enthusiastic charm. Cara Delevingne energized the crowd and the cameras, while Viola Davis reminded everyone of her powerful, regal presence. It was truly a lineup of legends who captivated the audience.

However, despite all these dazzling stars, the energy in the room shifted when Temi Otedola Ajibade appeared. It was exciting to see a face that represented Africa, following so many established icons.

Temi Otedola truly owned the moment, bringing not only the high artistry of the designer gown but also the pride of Nigerian representation to one of the most important fashion stages in the world.

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For her L’Oréal walk, Temi wore an impressive black couture gown. Its design was all about impact: it had a structured top with bold cutouts and a deep neckline, which then flowed into a huge, sheer tulle skirt. The skirt’s many layers gave her movement a dramatic, almost theatrical feel, as if the fabric was dancing with her.

The gown was finished with detailed 3D flowers, adding texture and depth. It wasn’t just a dress; it was a stunning piece of art that confirmed Paris’s place as the heart of fashion.

The actress and model kept her black strappy heels simple and low-key. This strategic choice added height without distracting from the gown, allowing the dress to be the main focus. Her walk was confident and perfectly matched the drama of her outfit.

Temi Otedola’s hair and makeup completed the powerful look. Her hair was neatly slicked back into a jumbo cornrow, styled like a crown, clearly showing her features. The screen goddess’s makeup balanced the dark gown with a glowing foundation and a bold red lip that instantly stood out. Her eyebrows were defined, her eyes had a soft smoky look, and her cheeks were lightly contoured to sharpen her face. The overall effect was classic yet modern, the definition of runway glamour.

Her accessories were kept minimal, wearing only a tiny pair of earrings. This simplicity was intentional. The gown delivered all the drama, the red lip made the statement, and everything else was pared down to let the entire look shine.

On that runway, Temi perfectly embodied the show’s theme: “Liberty. Equality. Sisterhood. Because You’re Worth It.” Her presence was both personal and symbolic. The model was representing the hopes and dreams of countless young women who follow her journey.

This was Temi’s second time walking for L’Oréal Paris, following her historic debut in 2024 as the brand’s first Nigerian Digital Ambassador. That first appearance, where she wore a daring red balloon gown, made major headlines. But this year felt different.

Her return to this year’s runway proved that she hadn’t just been included as a one-off feature but had earned her place as a regular fixture on this prestigious runway.

The buzz didn’t end on the runway. A few days later, Temi was spotted in Paris alongside her husband, Mr Eazi, at the Casablanca Spring/Summer fashion show, where the stylish duo turned heads in coordinated purple suits.

The model styled her look without an undershirt, letting the floral appliqués on her suit take center stage, and completed the outfit with classic black pumps. Her husband, on the other hand, opted for a white undershirt layered under an oversized coat, finishing his look with sleek wine-colored dress shoes.

This coordinated street-style look proved Temi can easily switch from dramatic couture to sharp, modern outfits.

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Temi Otedola’s growing role in fashion highlights important changes in the industry. For years, global fashion weeks had a very narrow idea of who could be represented.

Now, figures like Temi Otedola Ajibade are breaking down those barriers, bringing African creativity and presence to spaces that were once closed off. Her walk was not just a beautiful sight but a significant cultural moment, sending a clear message to younger African women: you belong here, too.

For L’Oréal Paris, her involvement perfectly matches the brand’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. Their famous slogan, “Because You’re Worth It,” is all about empowering women globally, and Temi’s role as an ambassador proves this commitment. It acknowledges that women everywhere, from Lagos to London to Paris, deserve to see themselves represented in the worlds of beauty and fashion.

For fans of fashion, for Nigerians watching worldwide, and for anyone who believes in the power of representation, Temi Otedola’s all-black, glamorous walk was a defining moment of the season.

Photo: Instagram/temiotedola