What to Wear to Lagos Parties According to a Fashion Stylist

Lagos doesn’t do boring weekends. There’s always a rave, concert, or rooftop event calling your name. But, aside telling these events apart, figuring out what to wear without feeling out of place can be tricky.

So we spoke to Awoniyi Victor Oyindamola, known professionally as Dynamite — a Creative Director, Fashion Stylist, and Upcycling Designer redefining sustainable style in Nigeria — to help us build the all-round Lagos party outfit guide.

From boat and rooftop raves to concerts, club nights, and festivals, here is your expert-led style guide to dressing right for Lagos nightlife.

FOR THE GUYS

1. The Effortless Cool — Denim, Tees, and Sneakers

Outfit: Baggy denim pants, plain tee, jacket, belt, sneakers, snapback, and matching accessories.
Where it works: Raves and concerts.
Where it doesn’t: Beach or pool parties — too heavy for the vibe.

This is the Lagos uniform for guys who want to look chill but intentional. It’s laid-back, breathable, and still stylish enough to move from ‘pre-game to shit-faced’. The trick? Let your accessories do the talking — a good chain or statement hat goes a long way.

2. The Polished Rebel — Bootcut and Fitted Tees

Outfit: Bootcut trousers, fitted round-neck top, belt, rings, and sneakers or shoes.
Where it works: Festivals, raves, and concerts.
Where it doesn’t: Carnivals — you’ll regret it when it’s time to move around.

This one’s for the fashion-forward. Bootcuts are back, and Lagos boys are making them their own — mixing that 2000s silhouette with modern streetwear energy. Dynamite calls this “the perfect in-between — not too casual, not overdressed.”

3. The Street-Ready Fit — Jorts and Graphic Tees

Outfit: Jorts, sneakers, socks, polo or graphic tee, belt, cap or bandana, chain, and rings.
Where it works: Raves and clubs.
Where it doesn’t: Beach — jorts and sand don’t mix.

Think of this as the Lagos boy remix of streetwear. It’s easy to layer, fun to accessorise, and perfect for nights you plan to move.

4. The Vintage Guy — Flared Suit Pants and Short-Sleeved Vintage Shirt

Outfit: Flared suit pants, vintage shirt, shoes or leather slides, and shades.
Where it works: Beach, concerts, festivals, or raves.
Where it doesn’t: None — this one’s foolproof.

Dynamite says, “Vintage is timeless, and Lagos loves colour. Pairing flared pants with a loose shirt gives you style and comfort in one.”

5. The Jersey Fit — Sporty But Stylish

Outfit: Short-sleeved jersey layered over a long-sleeved plain top, cargo shorts or denim jorts, sneakers, belt, and a scarf, cap, or durag.
Where it works: Concerts, clubs, and raves.
Where it doesn’t: None — it fits almost anywhere. Even on the beach, you only need to change your footwear.

6. The Minimalist Flex — Tank Top and Pants

Outfit: Tank top, jacket, denim or suit pants, sneakers or loafers, accessories, cap or vintage scarf.
Where it works: Festivals, concerts, and raves.
Where it doesn’t: Beach — too heavy for sand and sun.

This outfit screams balance — casual but structured, clean but bold.

7. The Afro Cool — Ankara/Kampala Pants and Plain Tee

Outfit: Flared African print pants, plain or polo top, slides or loafers.
Where it works: Festivals.
Where it doesn’t: Clubs or raves (unless it’s themed).

The Afro Cool is for those who love to mix heritage and hype — culture meets comfort.

FOR THE LADIES

1. The Party Starter — Bum Shorts and Cropped Jacket

Outfit: Bum shorts, bra top, boot heels, cropped jacket, and accessories.
Where it works: Raves and clubs.
Where it doesn’t: Festivals — not practical for the movement.

It’s bold, confident, and perfect for when the music’s loud and the lights are low. Lagos girls know this look turns heads.

2. The Street Chic — Baggy Pants and Jersey

Outfit: Baggy pants, jersey, snapback, sneakers, and accessories.
Where it works: Concerts and raves.
Where it doesn’t: Festivals — unless it fits the theme.

“Comfort is confidence,” Dynamite notes. “Loose fits with structure make you move freely and still look hot.”

3. The Girly Edge — Graphic Tee and Jorts

Outfit: Graphic tee, jorts, heels, socks, mini arm bag, and accessories.
Where it works: Concerts and raves.
Where it doesn’t: Beach — not practical.

4. The Breezy Babe — Short Gown and Slides

Outfit: Short, body-hugging gown with slippers.
Where it works: Clubs and beaches.
Where it doesn’t: None — simple, versatile, and effortless.

5. The Romantic Fit — Crop Top and Maxi Skirt

Outfit: Crop top, maxi skirt, small bag, belt, platform slides or heels.
Where it works: Raves and beaches.
Where it doesn’t: Carnivals or festivals — too flowy for that kind of movement.

6. The Vintage Girl Y2K Fit — Bootcut Denim and Crop Top

Outfit: Bootcut jeans, vintage shirt or crop top, Afro wig, heels or platform slides, statement accessories, small bag.
Where it works: Festivals and concerts.
Where it doesn’t: Beach or carnival — too warm and restrictive.

7. The Ankara Muse — African Print Pants and Crop Top

Outfit: Baggy Kampala pants, strapped crop top, heels, and glasses.
Where it works: Festivals.
Where it doesn’t: Clubs and concerts.

8. The Night-Out Glam — Smokey Top and Ruffle Skirt

Outfit: Smokey top, ruffle or bubble skirt.
Where it works: Clubs, concerts, and beaches.
Where it doesn’t: None. It’s a safe slay.

9. The Poolside Fit — Bikini Three-Piece

Outfit: Three-piece bikini set.
Where it works: Beach and pool parties.
Where it doesn’t: Raves, concerts, or clubs.

Final Note

These outfits above, as opposed to the lazier, more laid-back options you often settle for, help you make the most of your wardrobe.

At the end of the day, Lagos parties are about freedom and expression. There’s no one-size-fits-all. Just wear what matches your energy and the event.

As Dynamite puts it: “It’s not about perfection. It’s about personality. Let your outfit speak before you even say hello.”

Source: Pulse