Lagos, the dynamic fashion capital of Nigeria, was the epicenter of a stunning display of style and creativity during the recently concluded 15th edition of Heineken Lagos Fashion Week. As the event drew to a close, Heineken captivated the audience with its enchanting campaign titled, “City of Cities – Our Rhythm, Our Runway.”
Embracing this year’s theme, “In Full Bloom,” the fashion showcase began on Wednesday, October 29, and culminated on Sunday, November 2. The Federal Palace Hotel in Victoria Island reverberated with vibrant energy as Heineken presented a finale that filled the city with pride—a celebration that beautifully depicted the essence of Lagos’s style and spirit.
Dubbed “City of Cities – Our Rhythm, Our Runway,” the presentation served as a heartfelt homage to Lagos, paying tribute to its unique chaos, irresistible charm, vivid colors, and boundless creativity. In a dazzling fusion of fashion, music, dance, and staging, the showcase illustrated the journey of Heineken Lagos Fashion Week from a legacy of tradition to an embrace of innovation.
As the rhythmic beats of local drums and evocative chants honoring Lagos echoed through the venue, models adorned in regal and expressive outfits graced the runway, each representing the city’s intrinsic beauty, resilience, and authenticity.
From elegant raffia to sparkling sequins and meticulously hand-beaded creations, the 46-piece collection, curated by Omoyemi Akerele, the founder and CEO of Lagos Fashion Week, highlighted the extraordinary talents of Africa’s leading designers, including Mai Atafo, ESO by Liman, Nkwo, Onalaja, Dimeji Ilori, LFJ, and many more.
Heineken’s iconic green radiated like the city glittering at night on the runway. The pulsating energy, texture, and attitude reflected the very soul of Lagos. A tribute dance to the legendary Fela and an uplifting performance by the LOUD Urban Choir beautifully wove together the narrative, underscoring that the showcase represented not just a collaboration, but rather Heineken’s role at the intersection of fashion, culture, and the city’s indomitable spirit.
Commenting on the event, Sandra Amachree, Head of Marketing Communications for Nigerian Breweries Plc, stated, “Heineken’s partnership with Lagos Fashion Week celebrates the creativity and cultural depth that make this city truly special.
“We regard fashion as a powerful medium for expression, progression, and identity that transcends mere aesthetics. This year, we’ve once again pushed beyond conventional limits, demonstrating that the future of fashion is bold, innovative, and undeniably African.”
The evening concluded with a vibrant after-party featuring live performances by Adekunle Gold, Dope Caesar, DJ Consequence, and DJ Tinny, inviting everyone to rise from their seats and join in the joyous sing-alongs and dances.
Heineken Lagos Fashion Week has consistently led the way in promoting African fashion, and this year’s edition showcased a blend of both established and emerging designers, illuminating their distinct perspectives and talents.
The 2025 event took particular care in emphasizing sustainability, as designers integrated eco-conscious materials and methods into their couture, with the Green Access program —a flagship initiative— actively shaping the future of African fashion through support for emerging talents and the promotion of sustainable practices.
Heineken’s “City of Cities” campaign reaffirms its dedication to honouring urban diversity and creativity. By collaborating with Lagos Fashion Week, the global brewing giant solidifies its identity as a brand that truly understands and celebrates the unique rhythm and style of Lagos.
