5 Old School Trends Celebrities Are Embracing in 2025

Fashion and pop culture trends move in cycles, and celebrities love reviving outdated styles. Just when you thought certain trends were gone for good, your favorite stars are bringing them back, from fashion and hairstyles to makeup and even slang. Sometimes they look unexpectedly cool, and other times we’re left wondering why.

In 2025, Nigerian celebrities are redefining outdated styles and making them trendy again. Let’s take a look at five outdated trends that are making a major comeback.

• Cowboy-Inspired Fashion – From Classic Western Wear to Teni’s Signature Look

Cowboy attire has a long history, dating back to the American West in the 19th century. Traditionally worn by ranchers and rodeo performers, the style featured wide-brimmed hats, durable leather boots and durable denim trousers. It remained popular among country musicians and antique collectors, but it progressively lost popularity with mainstream taste.

Now Nigerian musician Teni is bringing back cowboy attire 25 years later! Known for her unconventional sense of style, she is giving the once outdated trend a modern Nigerian twist by dressing in huge cowboy hats, bootcut jeans, leather boots, and fringe jackets. From music videos to live performances to casual gatherings, Teni has shown that cowboy aesthetics aren’t just for  the Wild West.

And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a dramatic cowboy hat moment, it would even protect you from the current hot sun?

Conrows sitting pretty on Tiwa Savage

• Ghana Weaving & Cornrows – Throwback Hairstyles Return

Ghana weaving and straight-back cornrows were go-to hairstyles in the early 2000s. Remember that era? Then came the rise of wigs and human hair extensions, pushing these classic braids to the sidelines. Some people even joined ajo (a communal savings system) just to afford high-quality human hair. But now, things are changing!

These timeless braided styles are making a bold comeback, embraced by celebrities like Tiwa Savage, proving that sleek, simple, and low-maintenance hairstyles never go out of style. This revival is fueled by nostalgia for Y2k  aesthetics and a renewed appreciation for natural hair.

So, if you’ve been thinking about bringing back your old braids, you’re right on trend! As people like to say, “I go saloon, hairdresser no ask me wetin I want, she  just do all back for me.” Clearly, this statement shows cornrows are back and making waves.

Big Tems Fresh Looks

• Overly Glossy Lips & Thin Brows – ’90s Makeup is Back

In the makeup industry, dewy, fresh looks have replaced heavy matte finishes, but some Nigerian celebrities are going one step further and bringing back the beauty trends of the 1990s and early 2000s.

One of the most identifiable styles of the era is  extreme gloss, overlined lips, and tiny, arched eyebrows. It was the favoured look at the time for Nollywood actresses, music video vixens, and early Nigerian pop singers.

The vintage beauty trend is currently being revived by Tems. At festivals, concerts, and casual get-togethers, she effortlessly sports sleek, barely-there brows and super-glossy lips, proving the timeless beauty of this outdated look. Would you dare try again?

Regina Daniel Innovation

• Retro Traditional Attire – Old Nollywood Glam is Back

Nollywood stars are embracing vintage traditional styles, bringing back the elegance and cultural pride seen in old Nigerian films. One standout trend is the revival of classic regional attires with a modern twist, and Regina Daniels is leading the way with the Delta Akwa Ocha.

This outfit which was once reserved for royalty, elders, and traditional ceremonies, Akwa Ocha, a  beautifully woven white fabric native to the Anioma people of Delta State is  now being styled in fresh, trendy ways. Regina Daniels has transformed this cultural attire into a statement piece, rocking it in corset gowns, fitted two-pieces, and even modern jumpsuits.

Her ability to merge heritage with contemporary fashion has sparked renewed interest in the fabric, inspiring young women to embrace their roots in style.

Cargo Pants

• Cargo Pants – Functional Fashion Makes a Comeback

Cargo pants, which were a must have streetwear in the early 2000s, are making a significant comeback in 2025, and Nigerian celebrities are fully embracing the trend. Because of their many pockets and loose fit, cargo pants used to be popular among hip-hop artists and urban fashionistas. Cargo pants are making a huge comeback thanks to the revival of Y2K style and the trend towards more comfortable appearance. Eventually, they were replaced by thin jeans and fitting pants.

Celebrities like Asake, Davido, and Liquorose have been spotted wearing cargo pants in a number of ways for a laid-back yet stylish style. They pair them with oversized t-shirts, crop tops and trainers.

This trend isn’t just about nostalgia; it reflects a shift toward practical, stylish fashion that blends utility with streetwear aesthetics. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love an outfit that’s both trendy and functional?

Finally, Are You Ready to Embrace These Comeback Trends?

Although pop culture and fashion are constantly evolving, Nigerian celebrities are proving that some trends are just too good to be left behind. Whether it’s the return of Ghanaian weaving, the resurrection of ultra-glossy lips, or Teni’s cowboy-inspired clothing, 2025 is all about combining nostalgia with modern design.

So, what do you think? Which of these trends would you absolutely try in 2025? Let us know in the comments section below!

A Tip That You Need

One way  to stay ahead of the latest fashion trends is to  follow  your favorite Nigerian celebrities on social media, keep an eye on their styles, and don’t be afraid to experiment with old school trends in your own way.

See related posts: Vibrant Vibes Only: How Celebrities are Rocking Bold Colours this Season