Fashion stylist, Rhoda Ebun, gives us an expert breakdown of stylish looks across four African destinations: Lagos, Kigali, Marrakech and Zanzibar. It’s all you need for a stylish travel wardrobe.
There’s no off-season for travel, and if you’re heading to African destinations, your travel wardrobe should reflect the opulence and beauty of the continent. According to the United Nations World Tourism Organisation, Africa recorded 9% growth in arrivals in Q1 2025, compared to 2024, exceeding pre-pandemic traveller numbers by 16%. What better way to match the energy of the stunning African destinations than with equally stunning outfits?
While packing efficiently is important, curating the right travel wardrobe is where the real fun is — especially for the fashion-savvy traveller. It’s time to elevate your look with expert guidance on how to serve bold, stylish and climate-conscious fashion during your African destination trips.
We’ve teamed up with renowned fashion stylist and consultant Rhoda Ebun — the creative force behind RTFCompany — to bring you an expert travel lookbook. With over a decade of experience and a flair for mixing modern minimalism with cultural richness, Rhoda’s styling philosophy is all about effortless elegance and storytelling.
Whether you’re headed to a beach in Zanzibar, exploring fashion-forward Lagos, or visiting a safari retreat in Kenya, this guide will help you pack smart, travel light, and still turn heads. Each look is versatile enough to slay across different African destinations. Let’s dive in!
Read also: Prepare to have your heart captured by these enchanting West African destinations
Lagos, Nigeria
If there’s one thing you should know before packing for Lagos, it’s that this city buzzes with energy — and style in Lagos is as bold as the city itself. In Lagos, you can’t afford not to have stand-out looks. As someone who lives in this city, I have front-row seats to the trust me, fashion scene in Lagos. It’s high-energy, high-stakes and high-style.
“There’s a reason it’s called Eko for Show,” says Rhoda. “You have to show off your personal style and taste.” It’s this unapologetic flair that makes Lagos one of the most exciting African destinations to style for.
Let’s get into the curated Lagos fashion looks styled by Rhoda.
Look one: Aso-oke but make it high fashion
The first look features a larger-than-life kimono jacket made from Aso-oke, styled with wide-leg trousers. Rhoda layers this with beaded necklaces, statement earrings, and chunky rings. Aso-oke is the moment this season, and Lagos is the perfect stage for it. “I call this look ‘Rich Aunty goes on vacation,’” she muses. It has all the regal drama you need to make an entrance while in Lagos.” The key to wearing this outfit is to let the kimono do the talking, but don’t hold back on accessories. You’re in Lagos — excess is the dress code.
Editor’s tip: Keep your glam dewy, throw your hair in a long bun or turban headwrap, and add strappy sandals. Aso-oke in this silhouette gives you tradition with a twist, and Lagos fashion thrives on both.
Kimono Jacket: AKO AFRICA @ako_africa
Trousers: TIRE STUDIOS @tire_studio
Look 2: Art-house elegance
The second outfit is a tie & dye wrap skirt and blouse made from plissé fabric. Styled with an oversized tote, simple pearl necklace, and minimal jewellery, it’s perfect for gallery-hopping or catching a stage play at Terra Kulture. Tie & dye is having a stylish resurgence, and this look proves it doesn’t have to be loud to be stunning. This outfit whispers sophistication while effortlessly getting you noticed.
Editor’s tip: Add a pair of mules or white sneakers for versatility. This is a Lagos fashion look that moves seamlessly between activities and destinations.
Outfit & bag: MOBOS @mobosfashion
Read also: Come closer fashion girls! Here’s how to accessorise like a Lagos babe on vacation
Kigali, Rwanda
Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, is a city that balances grace with edge. Renowned for its commitment to sustainable tourism, Kigali offers a refreshing mix of serene beauty and rich artistic heritage. It’s a city that surprises you — clean, calm and full of life, especially when the sun sets. The nightlife is also bubbly in its own right.
If Kigali is on your African destinations travel list, your style game needs to be strong but versatile. Chic, breathable, and meaningful fashion works in Kigali.
Look 1: Print and puff
There’s something universally fun about a bubble dress, and Kigali calls for statement pieces that still feel easy. The silhouette of a bubble dress is the right fit. This look features an African print bubble dress, styled minimally with cowrie shell earrings and chunky statement rings. It’s a playful nod to tradition wrapped in a fun silhouette.
Editor’s tip: Let your accessories do the talking. The cowrie shells echo African history while still staying on-trend. Add strappy heels or platform sandals for that cool-girl look.
Outfit: BIBI LAWRENCE @bibilawrence
Look 2: Safari meets art
Exploring Kigali’s vibrant art scene or heading to a national park? This is the ideal look. A bold African motif T-shirt paired with Aladin pants, styled with a Conal rattan hat and oversized sunglasses. This look blends comfort, statement and movement — perfect for long walks through galleries or a relaxed afternoon exploring Kigali’s natural beauty.
Editor’s tip: Stick to earthy tones to match Kigali’s aesthetic. Add sneakers or durable slides, and layer on some gold bangles if you’re feeling bold. This look is comfy but unforgettable.
Outfit, Hat & Sunglasses: MOBOS @mobosfashion
Marrakech, Morocco
Marrakech is a full-on sensory experience — from the medina to the spice-scented souks and the deep reds of its iconic buildings. This Moroccan gem is famous for its “vibrancy, bubbling entertainment, historic landmarks and yes, the heat!”, as stylist Rhoda Ebun puts it. If you’re planning to explore one of the most stylish African destinations, your Marrakech travel style has to match the city’s visual setting. Breathable fabrics, dramatic silhouettes and pieces that move with the wind (and your mood) are your go-to.
Look 1: The elegant mini kaftan
Blending into the magic of Marrakech means embracing flowy fabrics and statement accessories. This mini kaftan dress brings just the right amount of ease and elegance, paired with a spherical rattan hat that offers sun protection with style. It’s the perfect look for wandering through the Jardin Majorelle or sipping mint tea at a rooftop café.
Editor’s tip: Add embellished flat sandals or mules for a chic-but-comfortable city stroll. Stick with pastel and earthy tones to reflect the natural warmth of Moroccan light. This is the perfect ‘float and flirt’ outfit.
Outfit: Ako Africa @ako_africa
at & sunglasses: MOBOS @mobosfashion
Look 2: Desert-sleek
Whether you’re checking out the desert or hopping cities, comfort and breathability are your best friends. This look combines a sheer chiffon blouse with batik-print chiffon trousers, offering movement while keeping you effortlessly stylish. Think of it as your soft desert armour — casual enough for the destination and cute enough for the ‘Gram.
Editor’s tip: Layer your look with delicate jewellery — long chains and charm bracelets that catch the light. Keep your makeup minimal with a hydrating tinted sunscreen. A crossbody bag will also come in handy while exploring.
Outfit: AMEDE @amedeonline
Hat, sunglasses & footwear: MOBOS @mobosfashion
Zanzibar, Tanzania
With its stunning beaches and crystal waters, Zanzibar provides the perfect backdrop for a tropical escape. Your wardrobe should rise to the occasion. The style here is all about breezy, beach-to-dinner versatility, with a healthy dose of rich aunty appeal. Whether you’re lounging at a private resort, heading out for dinner by the shore, or exploring Stone Town, fashion here is effortlessly elegant.
Look 1: Seaside elegance
You can’t miss with a colourful blue chiffon kaftan that reflects the hues of the ocean and skies. The ruched detailing adds structure while keeping it relaxed. Styled with a single pearl, gold drop necklace and statement sunnies, this look takes you from beachfront to dinner without missing a beat.
Look 2: Rich Aunty on an island
On days when you want to serve drama, a vibrant maxi kaftan does the job. Styled with a contrasting print scarf, this outfit embodies island glam. Styled with oversized orange-tinted sunglasses, a cuff bracelet, and a pearl necklace, this is a maximalist’s dream look. This look checks every box of both comfy and camera-ready.
Editor’s tip: Slide into metallic flats for a lunch by the sea, or elevate the look with gold strappy heels. These kaftans are not only breezy and beautiful, but they’re also brilliant at concealing post-lunch food babies. No need to hold back at the seafood buffet!
Outfits: AMEDE @amedeonline
Scarf, sunglasses & footwear: MOBOS @mobosfashion
From Africa, with style
African destinations deserve fashion that is as vibrant, expressive and versatile as the continent itself. From Kigali to Lagos, Marrakech, Zanzibar and other African countries, these looks will help you create the perfect travel outfits. Save this for your next trip!
Credits
Creative direction & styling – Rhoda Ebun
Jewellery – Bland 2 Glam @bland2glam
Makeup – Henry @phabulousmakeupartistry
Photography – YANKEY THE CREATOR @yanks_tee
