Clothing is more than just fabric — it’s a language, a statement, and sometimes, a declaration of power. For me, dressing up is an act of self-expression, confidence, and defiance against the idea that voluptuous women should shrink themselves into the background. At this year’s Guardian Woman Festival, where powerful women gathered to celebrate ambition and success, my outfit had to reflect exactly that: bold, intentional, and unapologetically me.
The Guardian Woman Festival brought together remarkable women at The Federal Palace Hotel & Casino to celebrate excellence, brilliance, and achievements. This year’s theme, “Woman Means Business,” was a tribute to Nigerian women excelling across industries globally.
From coaching and mentoring to entrepreneurship, the festival explored the power of collaboration, the importance of solid networks, and the resilience required for women to thrive. And as a woman who stands firmly in her power, I knew my wardrobe had to reflect exactly that.
Dressing with confidence and power
As a woman with a voluptuous body, my style is an act of defiance. I refuse to shrink behind dull silhouettes, muted colours, and excessive layering out of fear of being too seen or too loud. Instead, I embrace bold choices. My clothes are a declaration: I am here, I am present, and I will be seen.
The outfit breakdown
For the festival, I opted for a green two-piece set that perfectly blended elegance with ease:
Top: A tunic with a statement bow.
Bottom: Flared pants that moved beautifully with every step.
Green is powerful, grounding, and — funnily enough — the same shade as the Marie Claire Nigeria logo, which made me feel even more connected to my craft and role as an Acting Managing Editor.
I accessorised for the gods!
Jewellery is my love language, so I layered on the rings (my signature) and stacked necklaces that caught the eye of Lola Ogunnaike — a compliment I’m definitely keeping in my back pocket forever!
Shoes: Platform slippers — stylish but practical for a day of moving around.
Bag: A brown DIDI ISAH piece, timeless and effortlessly chic.
Hair and Makeup: Fun, Youthful, and Powerful.
I styled my hair into Afro puff pigtails, my go-to look. They remind me of Bubbles from Powerpuff Girls — playful, confident, and a little rebellious. I might be a successful 26-year-old, but I’ll always hold on to a touch of youthful joy.
My makeup was earthy and grounded, in line with my Saturn-in-Taurus protection year theme. And then, of course, a bold red lip — because power dressing always includes a power lip.
Why this outfit?
Practicality: The Nigerian heat is unforgiving, so breathability was key.
Power: Earth tones keep me grounded, and green symbolizes growth, ambition, and stability.
Authenticity: I dress to feel like me — bold, sensual, and unapologetic.
How my outfit reflected my role & mood
Look good, feel better, act the best — that’s my motto.
As an Ag. Managing Editor, my clothing needed to embody leadership. The fact that I unintentionally matched my outfit to Marie Claire Nigeria’s shade of green only reinforced my sense of purpose and alignment.
And let’s talk about the feedback: Tons of compliments. Everywhere I turned, people reminded me how beautiful I looked — proof that confidence, when worn well, is contagious. It doesn’t hurt to be a beautiful Ijaw woman, either *wink wink*
Fashion as a tool for empowerment
Fashion is more than fabric — it’s an extension of identity, a symbol of power, and an act of self-expression.
For me, dressing boldly is also about challenging outdated narratives around what voluptuous women can and cannot wear. Society often pushes curvier women toward safe, modest, or oversized choices, but I reject that notion entirely. I dress to stand out, not to blend in.
Would I change anything? Absolutely not.
I walked into the Guardian Woman Festival feeling content, powerful, and completely myself.
Key takeaways on personal style and power dressing:
Wear what makes you feel powerful — not what the world expects.
Comfort and style can coexist — practical doesn’t have to mean boring.
Accessories matter — never underestimate the power of rings, necklaces, and a bold lip.
Your wardrobe reflects your presence — make it a strong one.
So, would I style myself differently next time? Not a chance!
P.S – For details on my makeup and skincare, check out March’s edition of my column, Elevate & Illuminate!
