Gone are the days when music was just about the sound. Today’s Afrobeat stars are turning concert stages into fashion runways, making as many headlines for their bold style choices as their chart-topping hits. From Burna Boy’s boundary-pushing ensembles to Tems’ avant-garde statements, Afrobeat fashion has evolved into a powerful form of cultural expression. These artists aren’t just wearing clothes—they’re crafting visual narratives that blend traditional African aesthetics with contemporary high fashion, inspiring millions of fans worldwide to embrace their own unique style identities. Let’s explore how eight groundbreaking Afrobeat musicians are rewriting the rules of fashion, one iconic outfit at a time.
Burna Boy: The Global Fashion Disruptor
As Nigeria’s international rockstar, Burna Boy has revolutionised the intersection of music and fashion with his distinctive approach to style. His fashion philosophy centres around authenticity and personal expression, famously stating,
“I try to do what makes me feel swaggy; it could be a named brand or not. It just has to make me feel good. It just has to be different.”
Working closely with his long-term stylist, Ronami Ogulu, Burna Boy has created some of the most memorable fashion moments in Afrobeat history:
- Custom Burberry outfit at the 2023 Met Gala.
- Bespoke Tokyo James ensemble at the 2022 Grammys.
- Avant-garde Robert Wun designs for London performances.
- Collaborative pieces with G-Star RAW for the “On Form” campaign.
His style impact extends beyond personal choices to influencing global fashion trends. From experimenting with rockstar heels to embracing Maison Margiela Tabi boots, Burna Boy’s fearless approach to fashion has earned him collaborations with luxury houses like Louis Vuitton and Burberry. His ability to blend streetwear with high fashion, while incorporating African elements, has created a new blueprint for the Afrobeat aesthetic. What sets Burna apart is his evolution from controlled fashion choices to complete creative freedom. As he puts it, “It’s been from a more controlled version of me to a freer version of me. I just evolved into freedom.” This transformation has not only influenced his personal style but has also inspired a new generation of artists to embrace their authentic fashion identities.
Tems: Breaking Fashion Boundaries
Four years into her meteoric rise, Tems has established herself not just as a vocal powerhouse but as a fashion revolutionary in the Afrobeat scene. Working closely with stylist Dunsin Wright, she’s crafted a signature style that masterfully balances casual comfort with elevated glamour.
Her approach to musician fashion breaks conventional rules, embracing oversized silhouettes and layered pieces while incorporating unexpected elements like sheer textiles and lace. Notable collaborations include:
- Tommy Hilfiger global campaign
- Reebok partnership
- Custom BRIELLE lace jumpsuit
- Bespoke Robert Wun pleated designs
Tems’ Cultural Fashion Integration
“I’m always going to be Nigerian,” Tems proudly declares, integrating her Yoruba heritage into her contemporary style. Her fashion choices reflect a deeper understanding of cultural representation, particularly evident in her traditional attire choices for significant occasions.
The transformation from tomboy to global fashion icon hasn’t compromised her authentic self. Her evolution showcases a gradual embrace of brighter colours and more feminine silhouettes while maintaining her signature edge. As she explains, “You win, automatically, when you are yourself, no matter what that looks like.” This philosophy has shaped her Afrobeat aesthetic, inspiring a new generation to embrace their unique style identity.
Wizkid: The Street Style King
From the bustling streets of Lagos to the front rows of Paris Fashion Week, Wizkid has masterfully crafted a fashion legacy that transcends continents. His sartorial journey represents the perfect fusion of African heritage and global luxury, earning him the title of Nigeria’s best-dressed pop star.
Starting with humble beginnings in Lagos, where he shopped for secondhand American clothes, Wizkid’s style evolution mirrors his musical ascent. Working with veteran stylist Karen Binns, he transformed his aesthetic from street-inspired looks to sophisticated ensembles that blend cultural elements with contemporary fashion.
Wizkid’s Signature Looks
- His distinctive style combines:
- Monochromatic ensembles with statement accessories.
- Traditional Nigerian agbada re-imagined with modern tailoring.
- Luxury pieces from Saint Laurent and Dolce & Gabbana.
- Custom-made African prints with European cuts.
