Content creator and entrepreneur, Ayoyinka Abolarin shares her effortless outfit formulas, mum-style hacks and the Nigerian brands she loves.
Ayoyinka Abolarin proves that balancing motherhood and a thriving career doesn’t mean sacrificing style — comfort and sophistication can coexist. As a proud mother to her daughter, Araoluwa, Ayoyinka juggles running her own businesses, content creation, and managing a new hair company. Whether she’s in meetings, on set, or doing school runs, she chooses comfort and sophistication all the time. Her approach to style is intentional yet effortless, blending breathable fabrics, flattering silhouettes, and standout accessories. She creates looks that work for meetings, shoots, or even school runs.
In this first edition of Mum Style Diaries, Ayoyinka Abolarin shares with us how motherhood has shaped her personal style, her go-to work outfit formula and the Nigerian fashion brands she swears by. She also shares the styling hacks that keep her looking put together, even on the busiest days.
How Ayoyinka Abolarin achieves an effortless and sophisticated mummy style
What does a typical workday look like for you?
As an entrepreneur, no two days are ever the same, and I love that. Some days, I’m creating content for brands, others I’m in meetings, working with my manufacturers, or shooting on location. There are days I’m packing orders for my hair company, and others when I’m focused on strategy or behind-the-scenes planning. My work life is dynamic and ever-changing, which keeps things exciting and inspiring.
Describe your workwear style in three words?
Simple, chic, and timeless. Pieces that feel effortless yet always put-together.
What’s your go-to work outfit formula when you’re short on time?
When I’m in a rush, I reach for wide-leg jean trousers and a fitted button-down shirt. It’s neat, flattering, and always polished. I pair it with low-heeled shoes (I’m quite tall, so high heels aren’t my go-to), a statement bag to pull the look together, and minimal yet chic accessories for that final touch.
Are there certain colours or fabrics you gravitate towards for work?
I’m definitely a nude-and-beige, monotone kind of girl. I love my whites, creams, and beiges. I often pair them with a touch of black or green — solid, versatile colours that work for any occasion. In terms of fabrics, I gravitate toward cotton and linen for their comfort and breathability. I’m also absolutely in love with denim; I’ll always find a way to dress up a great pair of jeans.
How do you strike the balance between comfort and style in your wardrobe?
Comfort and style go hand in hand for me. I invest in well-tailored pieces made from breathable fabrics. This allows me to move through my day with ease while still looking polished. I love silhouettes that flatter my body without feeling restrictive, and I elevate them with accessories: a statement bag, minimal jewellery, and a great pair of shoes. That way, even on my busiest days as a mum and entrepreneur, I feel confident and put together without sacrificing comfort.
Has your style changed since becoming a mum? If yes, how?
My style has definitely evolved since becoming a mum, but in a way most people wouldn’t expect. Before motherhood, I was more tomboyish and didn’t put much thought into my outfits. Now, my style is elevated. I’m not just representing myself but also my daughter, and I want to set a good example for her. I still prioritise comfort, but I make sure that I leave the house looking polished and put together most of the time.
How did you approach dressing during pregnancy for work?
I was pregnant during the height of COVID-19. In the early months, I still went into the office because I was running a play centre, so comfort and the ability to move around were key. For the second half of my pregnancy, I worked mostly from home, which was a blessing. I could focus entirely on my pregnancy without the added pressure of planning work outfits.
Are there fashion rules you used to follow that you’ve now ditched?
When I was younger and a plus-size babe, I believed there were certain things I couldn’t wear — sleeveless tops, short pieces, form-fitting outfits. Over time, I’ve learned how to style my body in a way that makes me feel confident, but I’ve also let go of those self-imposed rules. Now, if I love it and it comes in my size, I’ll wear it. The only limits I had were the ones I put on myself, and I’ve happily left those behind.
Any fashion hacks you swear by for looking put together on a busy day?
My go-to hack is the one-and-done outfit. A jumpsuit, a matching co-ord set, or a simple dress. They take seconds to throw on, instantly look polished, and save me the mental energy of figuring out what matches. I just add a statement bag or earrings, and I’m out the door.
Are there any Nigerian fashion brands you love for workwear?
My workwear isn’t traditional office attire — statement pieces for events, premieres, and brand meetings. I love Nigerian brands like Wanifuga, Banke Kuku, Zephans & Co for their elevated, stylish designs.
Read also: The growing business of fashion in Nigeria
Are you more intentional, trend-led, or practical with your shopping after childbirth?
Since becoming a mum, my style has become more intentional and practical. I gravitate toward versatile pieces I can wear in multiple ways. Comfortable and flattering pieces that make me feel good in my skin. I don’t chase trends; if I love something, I’ll wear it whether it’s in season or not. I’m also thoughtful about my purchases, ensuring each piece works hard in my wardrobe.
What beauty items do you never leave home without?
I never leave the house without lip gloss and hand cream. I’m always reaching for my lip gloss at one point or the other, so it goes everywhere with me.
What does being stylish mean to you as a mother and working woman?
Being stylish is about showing up as the best version of myself inside and out. It’s not about wearing the latest trends; it’s about feeling confident, comfortable, and authentic in what I wear. Style is also a form of self-care for me. When I look good, I feel more motivated, while running my businesses, creating content, or spending time with my daughter. It’s a reminder that I can nurture my family, build my career, and still celebrate myself.
What advice would you give other mums trying to redefine their style at work?
Find what makes you feel confident, invest in versatile pieces, and let your style evolve with you. Comfort and polish can absolutely go hand in hand.
