As media mogul, Maiden Ibru turns 75, we are pleased to go on this journey celebrating style, courage and experience in Nigeria’s fashion and beauty landscape. As chairman of the Guardian Press Limited, Maiden’s style over the years reflects a subtle grace and strength. They are a reflection of the trends over time showing her adept knowledge of the fashion and style industry in Nigeria.
Maiden Ibru’s beauty choices from her mini Afro to the popular jerry coils hairstyle and frequent pixie weaves created a signature look for her. She was also known to accessorise with fascinators and gele headwraps depending on the occasion. Her love for tradition is apparent where she wears the double wrappers known to be worn by high society women, unique gele styles and blouses beaded to perfection.
In other instances the high society matriarch was spotted in her famed glove and fascinator combo, making a unique style statement that was loved by many. She would often pair this combo with voluminous skirts, snaggy jackets and trending heels, not passing up the chance to walk in her power.
See the fashion and beauty journey of Lady Maiden Ibru through the years.
Early life, nappy curls to mini-afro
Her nappy curls signature to her Greek-Nigerian heritage changed over time to a an Afro that she she often styled in Jerry coils, a popular hairstyle of the time, or with headbands.
Style staple: Unique headwraps and hats
A repeated style staple for her were head accessories consisting of traditional head wraps like Gele to more modern choices like hats. Her head wraps were often styled uniquely showcasing her eccentric style.
The fascination with fascinators
Fascinators, the mini hat that is often clipped on to the side of the hair, became another prominent feature of her outfits. She would pair this with both traditional and corporate outfits.
Traditional pieces and flowing skirts with intricate accessories
We can see love for delicate accessories that easily compliment every outfit. She would also wear a full midi skirt with heels creating a classic silhouette.
The Maiden Ibru in the present, a symbol of style and grace
Now, still dressed in her full midi skirt, subtle accessories, pumps and the famous fascinator and gloves, her fashion choices remain aspirational.
