Shiona Turini’s Style Guide to Lagos

One glance at Shiona Turini‘s Instagram, curated by high-fashion #OOTD posts, fun boomerangs and snaps from escapades all around the world, you’ll think you’ve gained access to a style wonderland. Her achievements in the industry have made her an authority and I take notes every time she posts on the gram.

While in Lagos for her masterclass session at the GTBank Fashion Weekend 2017, where she discussed Fashion in the Digital Age, the stylist and fashion editor fit in perfectly with the stylish scene.

Lagos is and will always be an avenue for self-expression through fashion and style, reflecting in culture, daily encounters, leisure, food, and music. As a first-timer to its vibrant and bubbly city, holding on to opinions may not be the best idea, as Shiona points out, it is important to come with a blank mind ready to take on new adventures.

“I didn’t have any pre-conceived notions before my travels. It was my first time traveling to Nigeria, so I wanted to enter with an open mind” she said. Shiona gladly took in the experience one step at a time (in stylish shoes ofcourse).

Getting on the highest canopy walk in Africa at the Lekki Conservation Centre was probably one of the highlights of her trip, she wrote on her Instagram “I am on a new level”.

Shiona’s immediate interest in Lagos-grown designers like Lisa Folawiyo and Maki Oh sheds light on her approach to style; calm and calculated with an unwavering love for classics. Although she travels plenty and has returned to Brooklyn, her 1-week style-cation in Lagos is a continual inspiration.

She breaks down her personal guide to fun, food, and fashion—when in Lagos.

Fashion Brands in Nigeria are as Global as They are National
I will say, it was refreshing to see how eager Nigerian women are to wear and support local brands. The fashions are as global as they are national; you can buy a stunning Italian handbag at Polo Avenue and wear a beautiful bespoke dress from a local seamstress.

Fashion Tourist in Lagos; finding old faves and new loves
I spent a good amount of time lusting after the men’s traditional two pieces and learning how to wrap an iro. I had the most amazing visit to Lisa Folawiyo‘s showroom, where I selected a gorgeous crop and pencil skirt co-ord from the new collection for a day on the town. The set married the traditional and contemporary with print and silhouette, it was one of my favourite outfits while there.

One of my most prized purchases was a printed skirt by Stella Jean from Alara. Her line is so hard to track down in the States, I was happy to finally get my hands on it.
From the pieces I packed, a gorgeous green striped tube top and robe from Studio 189, a brand that champions African craftsmanship, kept me cool and the colours were enlivening. While I intended to wear the pieces in Ghana (where the brand is headquartered), turns out, the set was just as beautiful in the Nigerian sun. I, of course, also brought some of my favourite brands along — a vibrant Valentino skirt, which I pared down with a white crop for a drink at NOK, and a gorgeous blue Fendi dress, which I wore for a day of exploration at Nike Art Gallery.

New Fashion Finds
I really love Lisa Folawiyo’s energized take on prints and how she adds a modern perspective to traditional textiles and silhouettes. I also enjoy watching Maki Oh‘s journey. The strength of her perspective is evident in her unique designs.

Stylish Dining in Lagos
A spontaneous stop at Bogobiri House during open mic night crowned it my favourite chill spot. The band was extraordinary, and I loved hearing the Nigerian sound with a surprise of familiar music. The unique artwork in every room added texture to the experience (my favourite design component was the mirrored walls). Honorable mention, however, goes to Nok for its refreshing drinks, colour-bright outdoor dining, and Instagrammable decor.

Everybody loves Jollof
The Jollof Rice Fiesta at Yellow Chilli was hands down the best local dish I had. Though I visited some of the best infusion restaurants during my trip, I was determined to try some authentic Nigerian food. I am now forever a fan of Jollof rice. Special shout out to the pepper soup I tried there, while, too hot for my taste buds was nevertheless delicious as well.

Falling in Love with Afrobeats
I got super into all of the afrobeat I heard. I love Wizkid’s overall sound, but the song I’m currently playing over and over in my head is Fall by Davido.

Connect with Shiona Turini on Instagram: @shionat