Watching the runways this season, it became clear that the conversation around who is allowed to belong in fashion is changing — slowly, maybe, but meaningfully. And that shift is worth pausing on.
Fashion has always claimed to be an industry of inclusivity, self-expression — a place where identity, culture and imagination meet. But historically, that space has belonged to a select few bodies. Global runways have long centred a specific idea of beauty: tall, slim, able-bodied. Anyone outside that frame is either unseen or added only as a symbolic gesture, a token.
When we talk about inclusivity, it’s not simply about adding different bodies to the runway. It’s about expanding the imagined boundaries of who fashion is for — and who gets to take up space within it.
Across the runways this season, beyond the trends, silhouettes, and striking design choices, one thing that stood out: the growing presence of inclusive representation. From diverse body types, the runway didn’t just present clothes; it showcased people. And that felt significant.
What inclusivity looked like this season
This Lagos Fashion Season didn’t try to make inclusivity a spectacle. It unfolded in subtle, intentional ways
Petite and proud
Brands like Kilentar, Wanni Fuga, Sisiano, Oshobor, and Maxjenny made a conscious effort to cast models whose heights defy traditional runway norms. Instead of altering silhouettes to “compensate,” they presented clothes that worked with smaller frames — emphasising fluid cuts, clean structure, and styling that honoured proportion.
Maternal body inclusion
At Oríré, a visibly pregnant model walked the runway. There was no attempt to hide, minimise, or dramatise her body; she came on stage in her full form, challenging the long-running fashion idea that only “unchanging” bodies are runway-worthy. This moment in particular signalled that life stages deserve representation, too.
Plus-size visibility
On runways for Imad Eduso, Ndiiche & Sinae (Green Access), Rendoll, Desiree Iyama, and Jewel Jemila, plus-size bodies were part of the visual language. The clothes were designed with curves and movement in mind, fitted and flattering without hiding.
Albinism representation
Lush Hair and Cute-Saint spotlighted models living with albinism in ways that felt respectful and integrated. They weren’t highlighted as special features — they were simply present, styled thoughtfully, and given equal space to command the runway.
Disability on the runway
Koma’s casting of a model with disability was one of the clearest markers of a shift. The model didn’t feel out of place or as a statement; they felt natural, as they should. This is the kind of representation that lingers — because it’s real.
Why this moment matters for Nigerian fashion
African fashion constantly shows that it no longer waits for permission from the global industry. The spotlight is already here, which means this is the moment where we choose what identity our fashion ecosystem will lead with.
If inclusivity becomes part of our foundation now, instead of a momentary gesture, we begin to create beauty standards that reflect who we truly are.
Where we go from here
The work of inclusivity on the runway is far from complete — but this season, it took meaningful steps forward. Designers are now naturally considering the range of people their clothes are meant for and who gets to be represented.
When that shift happens, the ecosystem changes with it. Casting directors will expand their visual references. Styling teams will approach bodies with nuance instead of adjustment. And audiences will learn to expect more and leave satisfied. Because once people see themselves represented, they don’t forget it.
This season wasn’t a declaration that Lagos has fully arrived at inclusivity. It was a signal that the groundwork was being laid. And that is how cultural shifts happen: steadily, confidently, and with purpose.
Read more: Meet the beauty brands championing inclusivity their shade ranges
