From red-carpet events to social media, these African celebrities became the talk of the town with their impeccable fashion choices and bold statements.
Taking a moment to look back at how the year unfolded for us as magpies, we can’t help but reminisce about the standout moments in fashion and beauty, especially those that caught our eye at FPN. Now, we want to know – who do you think rocked the most unique and stylish looks in 2023?
The year truly brought us a bunch of cool fashion trends that took over the internet—like the comfy athleisure style, the comeback of the denim-on-denim trend, the whimsy of corset dressing, and the Barbie-inspired fashion wave. Alongside these trends, classic individual looks had their moment, and many African celebrities made headlines at big events like the Oscars and Met Gala. Some of our favorite singers also added their twist to the fashion trends, creating buzzworthy headlines.
Did you catch those fancy outfits everyone was talking about? Picking a favorite style icon is tough, but don’t worry, we’ve got your back! From Tems’ controversial look to the Academy Awards, 2023 to Tiwa Savage’s very twist on the denim-on-denim trend, we enjoyed every bit of their fashion moments.
As the year is wrapping up, here at Fashion Police Nigeria, we are highlighting the most fashionable African stars in 2023 who stirred up the internet with their looks — whether for the right or wrong reasons. Check out our picks for the ones who stood out, making a splash with their public appearances and creating a buzz online.
Nana Akua Addo’s Futuristic Gown
At the AMVCA 2023, Nana Akua Addo stole the show in Lagos with her amazing dove-inspired silver dress on the red carpet. Known for her great fashion sense, she attended the 9th Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards in a stunning metallic silver Cary Santiago 3D Eagle dress. She paired it perfectly with futuristic robotic goggles from DiVamp Couture, making it a true work of wearable art.
The Ghanaian actress often pulls off breathtaking looks and each time descends on the red carpet, the internet is filled with awe at her enigmatic appearance. It’s not the first time she’s made a sensational statement in a Cary Santiago masterpiece; back in 2019, we could remember how Nana Addo completely knocked our socks off in a silver-grey frock with perfectly sculptured eagle sleeves at the Glitz Style Awards.
Tems’ Oscar 2023 “View Blocking” But Breathtaking Gown
Oscar nominee, Tems stole the spotlight at the 2023 Academy Awards, but not everyone was pleased, particularly those seated behind her. Her elaborate outfit, a puffy white gown that wrapped around the back of her head, drew criticism on social media for obstructing the view of fellow attendees at the Dolby Theater during Sunday night’s ceremony.
While she looked stunning on the red carpet and quickly became a viral sensation on Twitter, some playful comments humorously compared her outfit to a “stratus cloud,” emphasizing the unintended obstructive nature of her head-turning ensemble for those eagerly attending the prestigious event.
Tiwa Savage’s Unmatched Twist on the All-Denim Trend
Photo Credit: Instagram.com/@tiwasavage
Remember the denim rave of 2023? Well, the Afrobeat singer gave everyone a run for their eyes by putting her own twist on her usual off-duty style in a complete denim-on-denim look from head to toe for her new music video “Stamina.”
As seen, the look was a resemblance of repurposed denim, including a mini dress, jacket, and a pair of unique pants with a large cutout from the waist down to the crotch. Fans praised the look, with one describing it as “powerful” and another appreciating the striking blue color of the denim. From the brilliant hue to the inventive design, we sure loved how the look suited Tiwa Savage and the denim fashion trend perfectly.
Mitchel Ihezue’s Tribute to the “Founding Mothers”
Mitchel’s time in El Salvador for the Miss Universe 2023 competition was a classic showcase of her fashion repertoire. But, she struck a fashion cord with her final costume; she went all in, blending essential elements from three influential queens who’ve left a mark on Nigeria: the Queen Moremi staff, Queen Idia’s mask (which sparked controversy at Rema’s sold-out concert at the O2 Arena), and a headpiece from Amina, Queen of Zazzau. Needless to say, social media was buzzing with excitement about this unique and bold ensemble!
Anok Yai
Model Anok Yai made a striking appearance at the MET Gala 2023, resembling a glamorous rain cloud with a shimmering twist. The Egyptian-born American fashion model, of South Sudanese descent, donned a dazzling gold and silver strapless sequined dress designed by Prabal Gurung.
The dress flared dramatically at her hips, creating a flowing cascade of silver that extended gracefully to her feet. The attention to detail, from the flawless fit on her skin to the dramatic essence of the ensemble, sparked a flurry of reactions on her Instagram page. Followers couldn’t help but express their admiration for the stunning and unique number.
Danai Gurira’s Sky High Hairstyle
The black ensemble might be regular but nothing regular about the artwork you see on Danai Gurira’s head. At the Oscars 2023, the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever star opted for a towering updo that paid homage to African women. This distinctive hairstyle not only contributed to her visual charm but also heightened her overall impact. The standout feature, however, was undeniably the significant height of her hair—a moment that Gurira confidently embraced with the grace befitting the tribute it represented.
Ayra Starr’s Clocked Neck
Not only was it Ayra Starr’s debut at the MTV event, but the internet couldn’t get enough of her stunning choker necklace. The perfect blend of glitz and glam, it beautifully complemented her outfit—a stylish black dress with a charming pink design at the hem, adorned with playful frills that brought a whimsical touch to her overall look. And let’s not forget those adorable tiny bangs delicately framing her forehead, adding an extra dash of charm to her appearance.
Adut Akech’s Braless Look
Photo Credit: Instagram.com/@adutakech
To the star-studded Prince’s Trust 2023 Gala in New York City earlier this year, Adut Akech, the South Sudanese-Australian model, in a public appearance with her boyfriend, Samuel Elkheir, went braless with her daring dark blue dress that highlighted her stunning figure.
The sleeveless dress had a deep v-neckline, extending down to the gathered and ruched waistline, leaving little to the imagination. Akech completed the look with strappy heeled sandals and a low-maintenance, cornrow braids hairstyle. Most of her fans say the look was surreal and if the fans say “Yes”, who can say No?
Lisa Folawiyo’s Three-Piece Denim Look
Denim-on-denim look has been a lasting trend, and this year, some of our favorite African celebrities have given it an even more refreshing and stylish upgrade. Nigerian fashion designers like Lisa Folawiyo have put their own spin on it, making us wonder: why wouldn’t a three-piece denim outfit look as perfect as a classic suit on a man?
Lisa rocked a vintage “Yeezy” denim ensemble, featuring a button-down shirt, high-waist baggy jeans, and a jacket that gives off a three-piece suit vibe. Completing the look, she added pointed boots, a clutch bag, and waist-length braids. Sure, no tie, but it’s nearly impossible to resist the synchronized, monochromatic, cowgirl, Loewe-inspired aesthetic.
