By Destiny Uko
The ’90s are making a serious comeback, and Nigeria is fully embracing the trend. Across the country, fashion lovers are turning to vintage styles, and celebrities like Burna Boy, Rema, and Ayra Starr are leading the way.
But this revival isn’t just about copying old trends. It’s about taking classic ‘90s looks and giving them a bold modern Naija twist. The following are ways to rock ’90s fashion in Nigeria today.
Denim, the Ninja way.
Denim was huge in the ’90s, and it’s back in full swing. From baggy jeans to oversized jackets, this look has found its way into the streets of Nigeria. Burna Boy love is a known denim lover, and his style proves just how versatile it can be.
Add your own Naija touch by pairing denim with local T-shirts or Ankara accessories. Denim is easy to mix and match, and perfect for any outing—whether you’re heading to class, a party or just hanging out with friends.
Crop Tops & Baby Tees
Crop tops and baby tee shirts ruled the ’90s, and now, they’re everywhere again. Stars like Tiwa Savage and Ayra Starr have made them wardrobe staples.
To make it work for you, pair a crop top with high-waisted jeans or a skirt. If you feeling modest, throw on a jacket or kimono. Accessorise with beads, matching jewellery, or a stylish headwrap.
Slip Dresses with Denim
The slip dress was a ‘90s favourite in the ’90s, and it’s been reimagined for today’s fashion scene. To rock the style, opt for fabrics like satin, or even local prints like batik.
Pair it with sneakers or leather boots and layer with a denim jacket or oversized blazer. It’s stylish, effortless and perfect for day-to-night transitions.
The Grunge style.
Grunge is all about bold, carefree expression with a street-style edge. Think of Rema or Odumodublvck–baggy jeans, bandanas, heavy sneakers and some braggadocio to match.
Create your own twist with graphic tees or hoodies, baggy pants and a newsboy leather cap (now in vogue). Finish it off with leather boots or sneakers. It’s edgy and empowering.
The Accessories Throwback
Accessories made the ’90s pop, and they’re back with a bang now. Toke Makinwa often rocks chokers, big earrings, and mini bags, showing how the right add-ons can elevate any outfit. Try bold jewellery, colourful sunglasses, or a bucket hat.
For a local twist, choose handmade accessories or pieces from Nigerian brands like Zashadu. Let your accessories speak volumes.
Old-School Labels, New Cool
Tommy Hilfiger, Fila, and FUBU are back. Young people–many of whom were not born in the 90’s—are embracing these brands and mixing them with Nigerian streetwear labels like Ashluxe and Vivendii. Pair a vintage logo tee with loose jeans or a jacket, and you’ve got a retro look with modern swagger.
Oversized/ Baggy wears
Oversized fashion is one of the strongest ’90s comebacks. Celebs like Tems and Asake are often seen in slouchy blazers, jackets, and trousers. The trick? Balance. Pair oversized jackets with a fitted tank or tuck a loose shirt into skinny jeans. Throw on a pair of sneakers or slides, and you’ve got that effortlessly chill vibes.
Dungarees & Ankara Headwraps
Dungarees were a trend in the ’90s, and they’re making a strong comeback. Pair them with a crop top or simple tee. Add an Ankara headwrap for that Afrocentric flair reflected in Simi’s fashion. This look is fun, functional, and easy to wear for casual days or weekend outings.
Tracksuits & Bold Accessories
Tracksuits were everywhere in the ’90s–and now they are back, cooler than ever. Davido is a big fan of the look. To make it yours, add bold accessories like chunky necklaces, hats, or a crossbody bag.
Go for vibrant sets or vintage-inspired designs, and complement the outfit with sneakers. It’s stylish, comfy, and definitely on-trend.
Turtlenecks & African Prints
Turtlenecks were a ’90s staple, and in Nigeria, they’re even better when paired with traditional prints. Style influencers like Ebuka Obi Uchendu blend modern cuts with Ankara or Aso oke. Try a fitted turtleneck under an Ankara jacket or with tailored trousers. Add sleek shoes and a statement necklace or earrings to crown the look with class.
Fashion is about Expression
’90s fashion is more than a throwback. It’s a chance to express your personal style, mixing the old and the new yet creating something fresh, vibrant and authentically yours.
Whether you’re channelling Ayra Starr’s crop tops, Burna Boy’s denim swag, or Asake’s oversized fits, the key is confidence. Mix vintage pieces with Nigerian flairs—from Ankara to bold accessories—and wear them your way. Fashion is about expression, not trends.
The 1990s fashion trend is experiencing a resurgence in Nigeria, spearheaded by local celebrities such as Burna Boy and Ayra Starr. This revival is not merely about replicating past styles but infusing them with contemporary Nigerian elements. Key pieces include denim, which is versatile and often paired with traditional T-shirts or Ankara accessories, and crop tops, which are making a strong comeback alongside high-waisted jeans or skirts.
Slip dresses in materials like satin, paired with sneakers and layered with denim or oversized blazers, offer a stylish look suitable for various occasions. The grunge style, epitomized by baggy jeans and graphic tees, combines street-style ease with a bold edge. Accessories, a staple of '90s fashion, are being reimagined with vibrant jewelry, sunglasses, and unique hats, often crafted by local Nigerian brands.
Additionally, vintage labels like Tommy Hilfiger and FUBU are being revitalized and frequently mixed with Nigerian labels like Ashluxe. Oversized clothing, tracksuits, and turtlenecks paired with African prints are all central to this retro trend revival. This blend of vintage and modern elements showcases personal expression and confidence in combining old-school styles with modern Nigerian flair, emphasizing that fashion is about personal expression rather than merely following trends.
