The 17th Headies wasn’t just about the music, it was a love letter to African fashion. It was held at the Landmark Centre in Victoria Island, Lagos, and this year’s theme, “Unapologetically African,” set the tone for a red carpet that radiated pride, boldness, and beauty.

It was more than outfits; it was a cultural statement. A reminder that our fabrics, our designs, and our stories deserve the spotlight too. And these guests didn’t just understand the assignment; they delivered.

Here are the showstopping looks that had everyone talking.

1. Annie Macaulay — Vibrant and Empowered

Annie

Annie Macaulay made a bold fashion statement at the 2025 Headies Awards. She wore a colorful crop top, paired with matching skintight trousers, both adorned with intricate patterns that celebrated African artistry. Over this ensemble, she layered a green trench coat designed with frills, adding a touch of drama and sophistication to her appearance. Annie’s short hairstyle and flawless beauty further accentuated her natural beauty, making her stand out on the red carpet.

2. Waje — Classic Glamour with a Modern Twist

Waje exuded classic glamour at the 2025 Headies Awards, opting for a timeless look that showed her elegance and poise. She was styled by @oprahs_cut and her hair was made by @official_flarehair. She donned a sophisticated ensemble that combined traditional African elements with contemporary fashion. Her blonde hair color perfectly fit her blue, sleeveless dress adorned with beautiful beads.

3. Roseline Afije (Liquorose) — Elegant Queen

Liquorose captivated the audience with a striking ensemble designed by Prudential Atelier. Her outfit featured bold, sharp shoulders and flowing panels in a monochromatic black-and-white palette. The structured corset added a touch of femininity, while the overall design exuded a powerful vibe. She completed her look with a statement headpiece and bold earrings. Liquorose’s look was a harmonious blend of cultural pride and futuristic fashion.

4. Chioma Ikokwu (Chioma Good Hair) Graceful and Timeless 

Chioma Ikokwu, known for her sophisticated and fashion-forward style, turned heads at the 2025 Headies Awards in a stunning black gown that exuded luxury and grace. The gown was made from rich, high-quality black fabric, featuring intricate beadwork and detailed embroidery that added depth and texture. It was a figure-hugging bodice with a subtle flare at the bottom.

She opted for a structured neckline, complementing the overall look with a touch of modern sophistication. Her sleek, straight hairstyle added a refined touch, while her soft glam makeup featured a nude lip and a smoky eye to enhance her features. Her appearance was the perfect blend of classic beauty and contemporary style, proving that black never goes out of fashion.

5. Mimi Yina (Medlin Boss)

Mimi Yina, popularly known as Medlin Boss, graced the 2025 Headies Awards red carpet in a stunning aso-oke ensemble that exuded elegance and cultural pride. Her outfit featured different colors of flower-shaped designs, structured shoulders, and a dramatic high train, making her style look royal. Her hair was perfectly sleek, and she completed her look with black heels.

6. Flavour (Regal Red)

Flavour embraced the “Unapologetically African” theme with a regal red ensemble that paid homage to his Igbo heritage. His outfit featured traditional embroidery and a flowing silhouette, complemented by bold glasses. His look was both bold and sophisticated, and it captured the essence of African royalty.

The Headies red carpet was more than just glamour; it was a celebration of African identity. From beadwork to Aso-Oke, Ankara to bold color, each look told a story of heritage and pride. This was fashion with purpose. Culture with confidence. Africa, unapologetically.

Which of these looks stole your heart? Let me know in the comment section.

Read also: 7 celebrities that make fashion statements loud 

Platform heels aren’t just a fashion trend, they’re a stylish, versatile option that can instantly elevate any outfit. They’re also the perfect solution for those who want a little extra height without the typical pain that comes with classic stilettos. Thanks to their thick soles, platform heels offer surprising comfort, making them easy to wear for hours. Plus, their bold design brings an effortless elegance to any look, whether you’re dressing up for a big event or giving your everyday style a chic upgrade.

Let’s check out a few standout styles and where they fit best:

1. Sculptural Black Platform Heels
If you’re after something bold yet refined, sculptural black platform heels are a great pick. With their thick platforms and artistic heel design, they give you extra height without feeling discomfort. The clean black and slim ankle straps keep them sleek and versatile. They’re especially perfect for high-profile events where you want to look stylish and feel confident in front of the cameras.

2. Double-Strap Black Platform Mules
For a slightly more relaxed vibe, you can’t go wrong with double-strap black platform mules. They combine a sky-high heel with a chunky platform, so you still get that pretty height, but with a lot more comfort. The scalloped double straps add a bit of elegance, and the open-back design keeps things cool and casual. Pair them with jeans or a breezy dress for brunch dates, shopping trips, or casual evenings out.

3. Classic Block Heel Platform Sandals
Sometimes, you just want something simple that works with everything and that’s where block-heel platform sandals come in. The block heel provides added stability, making them perfect for long events, whether you’re attending a formal dinner or a business meeting, they offer all the support you need for a long day (or night). They look just as good with cocktail dresses as they do with smart suits or flowy midi skirts.

4. Teal Velvet Platform Heels
If you’re in the mood to make a statement, teal velvet platform heels will do the trick. Bold in color and rich in texture, these heels are designed to turn heads. They’re surprisingly easy to walk in too, thanks to their solid platform and thick heel. Style them with simple metallics or all-black outfits and let your shoes do all the talking, especially at creative events or stylish parties.

At the end of the day, what sets platform heels apart is their wearability. That extra thickness under the ball of your foot spreads your weight more evenly, meaning less pain and more time enjoying your day or night. Whether you’re headed to a fancy party, a work event, or a casual hangout, platforms let you stay stylish without counting down the minutes until you can finally take your shoes off.

Also Read: 5 Shoes to Adopt with Your Fashion Style Inspired by Mercy Eke

When it comes to fashion, comfort and style must shake hands. We know the hustle, one minute you’re at a wedding (“owambe” levels), next thing you’re hopping to brunch, and by evening, it’s a friend’s birthday dinner. The real MVPs of our wardrobes? Kitten heels. Yes, kitten heels are sleek, low-heeled shoes that manage to balance chic with comfort. If you’ve ever dragged yourself through traffic in six-inch stilettos, you’ll understand why these humble beauties deserve more hype.

We know high heels are beautiful, but they can also be wicked.

After a few hours of standing, walking, and dodging traffic, even the most glamorous stiletto starts to feel like punishment. That’s where kitten heels come in, and if you’ve been ignoring them, it’s time to change your mind.

Forget what you thought you knew about kitten heels being “auntie shoes” or “too conservative.” Today’s kitten heels are stylish, elegant, and powerful, and trust me, once you step into the right pair, you’ll wonder why you ever suffered in taller heels.

Today, we’re stepping up your style game with kitten heels that are so good, you just might start a collection.

Why Kitten Heels Are the Ultimate Style Upgrade

Before we dive into the mouth-watering styles, let’s address the elephant in the room: Why are more women suddenly reaching for kitten heels?

Simple:

Comfort without compromise: The world is fast-paced. Whether you’re hopping keke in Ibadan, walking briskly on Abuja streets, or standing at a 4-hour owambe, you need shoes that won’t betray you halfway.

Elegant versatility: Kitten heels blend into any look, from our rich ankara prints to sleek western outfits. They’re the glue that binds traditional and contemporary styles together.

Real-life practical: Unlike skyscraper stilettos that are mostly for ‘car to carpet’ movement, kitten heels allow you to be mobile, stylish, and pain-free. You can dance, you can strut, you can even sprint if last-minute plans call for it. (If you know, you know.)

Kitten Heels You’ll Fall in Love With (and Why)

The Classic Pointed-Toe Kitten Heel

You know those days when you want to look sharp, polished, and powerful, but still feel like yourself?

That’s what a pointed-toe kitten heel does. It elongates the legs, sharpens your entire look, and adds a quiet sophistication without screaming for attention.

Perfect for: Work meetings, formal events, even a smart-casual hangout.

Best worn with: Tailored trousers, shift dresses, and even your favorite pair of high-waist jeans.

Pro Tip: Invest in classic colours like black, white, or tan. You’ll be shocked how often you reach for them. Because no matter how wild trends get, a sleek pointed-toe will never go out of style.

The Slingback Kitten Heels

One thing women understand is the importance of looking good even in 35°C heat. Slingbacks are the happy middle ground, giving you the structure of a closed shoe but the breeziness of an open back. And somehow, they always whisper “expensive” without trying too hard.

Perfect for: Brunches, wedding receptions, corporate events.

Best worn with: Flowy midi skirts, structured jumpsuits, wide-leg pants.

Pro Tip: Go for bold colours like emerald green or oxblood for a rich, premium feel. Because slingbacks offer that rare combination of freedom, elegance, and grown-woman energy.

Slingback Kitten Heel

The Sandal-Style Kitten Heels

You want to flex those freshly-pedicured toes? Sandal kitten heels are calling your name. They’re easy, breathable, and perfect for events that involve a lot of moving around, from strolling through food fairs to dancing at intimate gatherings.

Perfect for: Day parties, beach outings, casual weddings.

Best worn with: Maxi dresses, linen sets, and even smart shorts.

Pro Tip: A metallic sandal (gold, rose gold, or silver) will never fail you, especially when you’re not sure what to wear. Because when the heat rises and the vibes call for effortless chic, sandal kitten heels deliver every single time.

Sandal kitten heel

The Statement Kitten Heels

Listen, sometimes, you don’t just want to be stylish, you want to be unforgettable. Think kitten heels with feathers, crystals, oversized bows, or funky shapes that look like they belong on a magazine cover.

Perfect for: High-profile weddings, gala nights, award ceremonies.

Best worn with: Minimalist outfits that let the shoe do the talking.

Pro Tip: Keep accessories minimal when wearing statement shoes. Let your feet steal the show. Because the right statement shoe is not just an accessory, it’s an attitude.

Stylish statement kitten heel

How to Style Kitten Heels 

Right now, style is all about personality, boldness, and colour. Here’s how to truly own your kitten heel looks:

Mix textures: Pair patent leather kitten heels with lace ankara for a rich, multi-dimensional look.

Embrace colour: Don’t be shy about bold colours, skin tones make bright shades pop beautifully.

Blend tradition and modernity: Rock kitten heels with your aso-ebi, agbada, or even a kaftan for a refreshing twist.

Don’t be afraid of prints: A leopard-print kitten heel with a simple black dress? Instant fire.

Kitten heels are not just shoes, they’re a fashion revolution. They whisper, “I’m stylish, but I’m not suffering to prove it.” They prove that you can have beauty, grace, and common sense all in one stylish step.

If you haven’t already, now’s the time to fall in love with kitten heels. They’re about to become your wardrobe’s most trusted best friend, and trust me, your feet (and Instagram feed) will thank you.

Read Also: Loafer Luxe: 6 Chic Ways to Wear them