Celebrating These Nolly Queens: Top 8 Nollywood Fashion Icons

Nigeria is a dramatic country, and this intercepts in everything. There is drama in our music, art, movies, and most notably our fashion. You can follow Nigerian fashion trends by watching Nollywood stars and how they’ve dressed throughout time.

The fashion industry in Nigeria continues to introduce new styles to us, but there is a shift. This fashion shift has taken us back to the ’90s, and we are now seeing how the fashion of that era influences us today.

For this list, I am going to look at 8 Nollywood actresses from the ’90s whose style could still pass in 2020.

1/ Eucharia Anunobi

With her dramatic eyebrows and iconic headwear, it is no wonder why she is on this list. Nigerian women in the early ‘90s were mostly secluded to three social roles; cooking, cleaning and giving birth.

According to Guardian Woman, this was a time where women were expected to be meek, and to only speak when spoken to. In other words, second class citizens. What makes Eucharia the first on this list and an icon, is the way she expressed herself through fashion and makeup. Eucharia left her mark on Nollywood fashion, and it was loud in every aspect.

2/ Ini Edo

Ini Edo is known for her gorgeous face and dauntless looks. Her sense of poise is reflected in her fashion throughout the years. During that time, it was difficult to find a look she couldn’t pull off. Her fashion sense is very refreshing and polished, Ini could work any style she chooses, and it showed in her acting. Whether the role she was playing was an innocent college girl or wicked side chick, it always reflected marvelously.

3/ Omotola Jalade Ekeinde 

Omotola Jalade was fearless in the way she dressed, especially in the ’90s, a time in which women were expected to be conservative and avoid chancy ventures. Her style was very humble but expressive. I mean, she didn’t need to show or do too much to get your attention. Omotola is a Nollywood legend thanks to her acting and extraordinary fashion sense.

4/ Rita Dominic

Rita Dominic is a talented actress who stood out for her flourishing sense of fashion. Since her debut, she has given us (the viewers) nothing but perfection anytime we see her on our screens. We are honored to have witnessed such a fashion icon in the making, both in real and virtual reality.

5/ Dakore Akande

There is nobody else alive who could pull off those gorgeous dreads that Dakore had on in the ’90s. Her looks were fearless, and she always made a statement with her appearance. She could go from angelic to demonic in a heartbeat, while still remaining sweet and feminine. How did she do it? Dakore’s style reflects her ethereal vibe and confidence.

6/ Kate Henshaw

Kate Henshaw brought simple bold looks to life, while staying true to herself. Styling herself as a true icon, Kate used her fashion as an extension of herself. Ever since her early days, you could sense the simplicity in her looks and appearance. She always wore something cute and simple, that showed her inner self.

Her hairstyles were also a statement; any outfit she wore somehow complimented her hair and appearance. The main reason this health-forward queen is on the list is because of her modest and conservative appearance. It was like no other, and I feel simplicity in fashion should be appreciated.

7/ Oge Okoye

Oge Okoye naturally brings to the table a modernly take on fashion. Her style is very sleek and natural. What she wore always reflected the character she was playing, and she was always dressed to impress. Her trendy fashion had delicate patterns and muted colors. She also had this tattoo that somehow blended with her aesthetic and worked in every role.

8/ Genevieve Nnaji

Genevieve Nnaji  is the epitome of class and poise. She exuded elegance with every look she served in the ’90s. Her style was feminine, sexy and effortless with an innocent look made for every role she took on, even the dramatic scenes. With an excess of short skirts and colorful dresses, Genevieve’s ’90s closet is full of stunning staples.

 

Who is your favorite Nollywood celebrity fashion icon? Is there any Nigerian celebrity you look to for fashion inspiration? Tell us in the comments below!