Paris Fashion Week 2025 kicked off the global fashion calendar with flair, transforming the city into the world’s style capital from January 21–26. This year’s Men’s Fall/Winter showcase brought together influential designers, innovative collections, and a star-studded guest list, including African talents who continue to command attention on the international stage.
From acclaimed African designers to chart-topping artists, the motherland was well represented, with stars like Tems, Skepta, Tyla, and more making waves in the city of lights. Here’s how these trailblazers turned heads at this season’s most talked-about events.
Tems Stuns at Jacquemus
Nigerian singer-songwriter Tems brought elegance and simplicity to the Jacquemus show. Wearing a white textured two-piece set, she showcased her signature figure-hugging style. Tems paired her outfit with black heeled sandals, a statement clutch, and soft chocolate waves—a departure from her iconic braided hairdos. The ensemble reflected her effortless chic and cemented her place as a global style icon.
Skepta Channels Minimalist Rebellion at Louis Vuitton
British-Nigerian rapper Skepta embodied edgy sophistication at the Louis Vuitton show under Pharrell Williams’ creative direction. Donning a crisp white shirt and a silk scarf over faded checkered-print black jeans, he added a rebellious flair to classic menswear. With smart black shoes to complete the look, Skepta showcased the intersection of music and fashion. The rapper, who debuted his MAINS label in 2023, continues to influence the fashion world.
Uncle Waffles: Bold and Elegant at Jacquemus
Swazi DJ and entertainer Uncle Waffles dazzled in a contoured maxi dress with textured detailing at the Jacquemus show. Her ice-blonde hair and brick-red pointed-toe shoes complemented her bronzed makeup look. A VIP guest at the event, she also DJed at the official after-party, blending elegance and boldness in every appearance.
Shaboozey’s Americana Moment at Louis Vuitton
Nigerian-American country singer Shaboozey made his Fashion Week debut with a nod to his roots and his genre. Sporting a brown pea coat, a white T-shirt, a Louis Vuitton monogram silk scarf, and cow-print cowboy boots, Shaboozey brought his unique blend of African heritage and Americana to the runway. His loc’d updo added the perfect finishing touch to this standout look.
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Tyla’s Playful Vibes at Jacquemus
South African sensation Tyla kept her playful aesthetic alive with a peek-a-boo black dress at the Jacquemus men’s show. Paired with a wet-look updo and monochrome statement earrings, Tyla’s outfit was equal parts daring and fun. A rising star in the fashion world, her presence at Paris Fashion Week marks her continued evolution as a global icon.
Omah Lay’s Fashion Debut in 3.Paradis
Nigerian Afrobeats star Omah Lay made a bold entrance into the fashion scene wearing a cherry red and cream checkered suit by 3.Paradis. Complemented by oversized cream shoes, a matching handbag, silver earrings, and an Elvis-inspired hairstyle, his debut was nothing short of unforgettable. He also turned heads at the KidSuper show, where he rocked a streetwear-inspired ensemble complete with black-and-gold grills.
African Designers Leading the Charge
Paris Fashion Week also spotlighted African creativity through designers like Adeju Thompson of Lagos Space Programme and Emeric Tchatchoua of 3.Paradis. Their innovative collections showcased the depth of talent the continent offers, reinforcing Africa’s growing influence in global fashion.
The Continent’s Influence on Global Fashion
As African stars continue to dominate music, media, and fashion, their presence at Paris Fashion Week underscores the continent’s cultural impact. From breaking boundaries in design to commanding red carpets, these trailblazers are redefining African excellence on a global scale.
With Paris Fashion Week 2025 in the books, it’s clear that African stars and designers are not just participating in the global fashion narrative—they’re shaping it. As the world turns its gaze to the upcoming Fall/Winter Fashion Weeks in Berlin, New York, London, Milan, and Paris, one thing is certain: the motherland’s influence will continue to shine brightly.
