THE 9th AFRIMA grand finale held on Sunday, January 11, was more than an awards night; it was a statement of African style confidence.
The fashion on display reflected a continent comfortable in its identity, willing to experiment, and eager to tell its story through fabric, form and attitude. Beyond the trophies, performances and speeches, the evening unfolded as a full-blown fashion showcase.
For one night, African music’s biggest gathering doubled as a style summit, with artistes, presenters and industry power players using the red carpet and main hall as platforms for cultural expression, reinvention and quiet rebellion.
AFRIMA has always encouraged African identity, but this year’s fashion choices spoke louder than ever — bold, deliberate and unapologetically continental.
From heritage-inspired elegance to futuristic boldness, AFRIMA 9 proved that African fashion is no longer asking for a seat at the table; it is designing the table itself.
One of the most striking trends of the night was the modern reinterpretation of traditional African attire.
From sculpted agbada with minimalist embroidery to sharply tailored kaftans infused with contemporary cuts, designers proved that heritage can evolve without losing its soul.
Several male artistes embraced flowing silhouettes, layered textures and handwoven fabrics, pairing them with statement footwear and unconventional accessories.
The result was a blend of old-world dignity and modern swagger — a reminder that African menswear is no longer confined to ceremonial boxes.
The ladies leaned into cultural pride. Beaded corsetry and richly patterned fabrics dominated the carpet.
Rather than costume-like displays, these looks felt intentional and elevated, with craftsmanship taking precedence over excess.
Glamour was less about sparkle for sparkle’s sake and more about controlled drama.
Sequins appeared, but in measured doses.
Feathered accents, sculpted shoulders and metallic textures added flair without overwhelming the wearer.
The female artistes opted for confident silhouettes — thigh-high slits, open backs and corseted gowns — balanced by clean makeup and understated jewelry.
The emphasis was clear: let the outfit speak, not shout. What truly elevated the night was the visible collaboration between artistes and African designers.
Labels from Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa and beyond were credited, tagged and proudly mentioned, turning fashion into a continental conversation.
This synergy highlighted a growing awareness among artistes: style is not just personal branding, it is economic storytelling.
By wearing African designs on such a stage, they amplified the visibility of homegrown talent and reinforced fashion’s place within the creative economy.
Meanwhile, not every look landed. Some outfits suffered from over-styling — too many layers, clashing textures, or concepts that felt unfinished. In a few cases, ambition overtook execution, reminding observers that restraint is often as powerful as risk. Even the missteps contributed to the night’s visual energy.