So what was it like?
The venue was Federal Palace, Victoria Island and from 10 am daily, the bridal boutiques and displays were open. Mai Atafo and April by Kunbi had designated displays of their beautiful wedding dresses. There were also consultations; masterclasses for brides, makeup enthususiasts and people looking to make it in the fashion world.
The main attraction for us however, was the runway. We discovered so much- including how difficult it is to walk in poofy wedding dresses and in heels no less; and the fact that bridal pants and jumpsuits just might become a lot more commonplace soon.
DAY 1
The runway shows began late but when they did start, all was forgiven.
Bridals by Ivy
Bridals by Ivy gave a respectable start to the show. The collection was strong on reception dresses, and quite varied- from sexy black dresses with sweetheart necklines to demure blush dresses like the sequined sheath dress below, to even a 2- piece bridal ensemble with a cropped beaded top.
Lagos Bridal Fashion Week (LBFW) was a three-day event created to promote Africa's fashion brands both here at home and internationally. There's a big demand for Home grown fashion and LBFW creates a platform for that growing need to be met. Looks like the Buy Nigerian (and Buy African) movement is winning and we are so here for it. Lagos Bridal Fashion Week was created by Call Her Classic, a fashion agency that promotes the Nigerian fashion Industry through projects such as this. It held from Friday 4th - Sunday 6th May and we were there to capture the highlights, but of course you already know that if you follow us on Instagram.
Elizabeth and Lace
A classic collection, executed expertly. The show was opened by the first dress below, an A-line dress with a plunging neckline and so much movement it was fluid.
There were also Princess dresses ( a popular option for brides) with sheer sleeves, as well as strapless.
Otumemine
The designer describes this collection as "Understated opulence" and we couldn't agree more. From afar the designs look simple and chic, but up close the beadwork is something spectacular. How creative is this empire waist long sleeved number thin straps and a cold shoulder. Everything from the colour to the detail is giving us vintage glam. There were also quite a number of pants in this collection.
Poosh Bespoke
A menswear collection featuring both traditional and formal attire. This agbada stole the Poosh show for us. We can already see it making waves like that famous one we won't name today because it's not always about that stylish man. We digress...
We are seriously feeling this black satin sash with the blue suit and shiny black shoes. Dapper.
Shadiat Alasooke
One time for this designer! It was great to see asooke on the runway in striking jewel tones. Some of us here (er erm!) already picked ours. The designer shared on Instagram the emotional journey it took to produce this collection and we're so happy for her it totally paid off. She calls this 'The Evolution Collection'.
Bibi Lawrence
Bibi Lawrence showed out! This is one of those where it was very hard to pick just three out of the collection for this review.
This dress already made it off the runway a day after it was showcased, worn by Beverly Osu to the Headies awards and she looked perfect. Reception dress anyone?
This peplum wedding dress with the full skirt is even more stunning in person. Another crowd pleaser from Day 1.
Yemi Shoyemi
Yemi Shoyemi closed the show with a bang on friday. The first look was a pink ball gown on a model who glided down the runway with the purest smile. It was like watching a real bride. Everyone was sighing and oohing and ahhing. The flower headpiece from Enemaya stores with the long pink veil was the perfect complement. The world needs more pink wedding dresses.
This was a show stopper with an even fuller skirt and tiered detail on the skirt that made it look like soft clouds. Yemi Shoyemi certainly brought the drama.
This headpiece is everything.
The dress that closed the show was straight out of a Disney movie: a ball gown with a 7-metre long train worn by actress and singer Toni Tones, a friend of the designer. See the videos on Insta to see what it looked like coming down the runway.
Day 1 was certainly a success. We'll be bringing our best looks from each Designer on Day 2 in a bit. Send this to a 2018 bride.
What is your favourite look from Day 1?
photos: @rezebonna @sniper_ajix @ajeimages @ore007 @mr_akt @guardianlife