On Thursday, April 24th, the media mogul and culture shaper Mo Abudu took New York City by storm as she stepped onto the red carpet of the 2024 TIME100 Gala—an event that celebrates the world’s most influential figures.

It was held at the iconic Frederick P. Rose Hall, Jazz at Lincoln Center, the gala sparkled with stars from across the globe, but Mo’s entrance was nothing short of show-stopping.

She was draped in a floor-length black halter-neck gown that perfectly married sophistication with contemporary elegance.

Mo abudu

The dress hugged her waist and cascaded gracefully to the floor, creating a silhouette that highlighted her poised frame with every step.

It was a proof that simplicity, when done right, speaks volumes. Her hair was styled into a soft pixie cut that framed her face beautifully, allowing her natural elegance to take center stage.

Her glam was kept soft and luminous, a subtle glow that complemented the understated drama of her dress. With minimal accessories, Mo let her presence do all the talking.

She posed against a luxurious gold backdrop adorned with a glowing chandelier, elevating the aura of her ensemble.

Mo Abudu’s appearance at the gala wasn’t just about fashion; it was a reflection of her influence and her evolution.

As a trailblazer in African media, her presence among the TIME100 honorees solidified her role as a global changemaker and a powerful voice in storytelling.

Her look was not only stylish—it was symbolic of the strength, grace, and excellence she represents.

The 2024 TIME100 Gala brought together luminaries from film, politics, innovation, and beyond, but Mo Abudu stood out—not with extravagance, but with a timeless elegance that felt both regal and relatable.

In a room filled with the world’s finest, she reminded us what quiet power looks like.

Her appearance underscored not only her impact in the media world but also her place as a fashion icon in her own right.

Which of her shots from the night caught your eye? Let’s chat in the comments.

Read also: Ini Edo shines in divine elegance for her 2025 birthday celebration.

One undebatable fact is that the Nigerian fashion scene is very daring. In a world where fashion is mostly performative dress ups, some Nigerian celebrities have made decisions to stand out. They do not just stand out in their crafts and beauty, they also set paces in the ways they choose to style themselves. 

These Nigerian celebrities have understood that fashion is not just all about wearing pieces of clothing and makeup. They understand that it is also an art and rebellion. They have chosen not to define their senses of fashion with the standards that everyone goes by, rather they have made a solo path to tow on while others follow. 

Some of these Nigerian celebrities include: 

Nancy Isime

TV host and actress, Nancy Isime has carved a niche for herself with a fashion style that blends athleticism with elegance. She’s not your average glam girl; she’s fierce, dynamic, and always evolving.

Nancy takes risks by blending sporty and feminine aesthetics. She’s walked red carpets in tuxedos, dyed her hair blonde when it was still the wrongest thing to do, and consistently pushes the envelope with her hairstyles and bold prints.

Her fashion risks also extend into performance and hosting outfits; dramatic shoulder pads, leather corsets, and jumpsuits that showcase her toned physique. She doesn’t shy away from clothing that screams “power.”

Toke Makinwa

Media personality, influencer, and entrepreneur Toke Makinwa lives and breathes high fashion. She’s not afraid of the dramatic, the extravagant, or the sparkly. Her fashion risks often involve bold colors, racy cuts, and luxurious fabrics that scream confidence.

From plunging necklines to neon faux-fur coats, Toke has walked red carpets and graced social events in fashion pieces that only a few coud pull off. Her Instagram feed is a lookbook of high-risk, high-reward fashion moments. 

Read Also: Ini Edo Shines in Divine Elegance for Her 2025 Birthday Celebration

Tiwa Savage 

Tiwa Savage is one of the few Nigerian celebrities who is not only a musical legend but also a fashion icon who constantly reinvents her style.h Whether she’s performing on international stages or attending Lagos fashion week, Tiwa knows how to command attention with her bold and most times, controversial fashion choices.

She is not afraid to use fashion to highlight her femininity, not minding what netizens have to say about her daring fashion choices. 

One day she is putting on an oversized jacket with boots then the next day she is rocking a very sultry bikini while having fun at the beach. Her powerful fashion statements often sparks conversations online- both praises and criticism. Tiwa, however, does not care as she remains unapologetic about her fashion choices. 

Tems

Tems is one out of Nigerian celebrities whose fashion choices steps out of the ordinary. She does not roll with the regular flashy celebrity fashion, yet she stands out whenever she makes an outing. 

She has a thing for comfort and self expression as she favours calm tones, oversized pieces and dramatic outfits that rebels against the hyper feminine expectations placed on Nigerian celebrities. 

Shaffy Bello

Shaffy Bello has redefined what it means to be stylish as a woman over 40. She is elegant, regal, and absolutely fearless in her fashion choices. Her presence at any red carpet event immediately raises the bar.

She embraces bold prints, dramatic ruffles, oversized jewelry, and high-fashion pieces. Shaffy wears fashion with the confidence of someone who knows herself and doesn’t need validation.

Her fashion risks are deeply tied to embracing age with style. She proves that older women can be just as daring and fashionable, challenging ageism in the entertainment industry. 

You might want to have a rethink when next you have to step out in a fashion piece. You can choose to work with the normal or choose to step out of the ordinary. 

Mercy Eke, the undisputed “Queen of Highlights, “doesn’t just own the Big Brother Naija crown, she also reigns supreme in the fashion world. Whether she’s slaying the runway, turning heads on the red carpet, or just running errands in Lagos, Mercy’s style is a masterclass in confidence, versatility, and pure glam.  

From jaw-dropping couture to effortlessly chic streetwear, Mercy’s wardrobe is a treasure trove of inspiration. So, let’s dive into the fashion evolution of Nigeria’s reality TV sweetheart, because if there’s one thing Mercy does better than stirring drama, it’s serving looks.  

Runway Royalty: A Debut to Remember

Mercy didn’t just walk onto the runway, she owned it. Her debut at Lagos Fashion Week was nothing short of iconic. Dressed in a bold, curve-hugging gown with dramatic ruffles and a thigh-high slit, she proved that reality TV stars can absolutely hold their own among high-fashion models.  

The look? A perfect blend of fierce and feminine. The attitude? “I wasn’t invited, I just showed up and took over.” And honestly? We wouldn’t expect anything less from the Queen of Highlights. 

Mercy Eke on the run way

Iconic Homage: Halloween with a High-Fashion Twist 

Mercy’s Halloween game is as strong as her ability to win reality shows. One year, she paid tribute to Morticia Addams, but with a Mercy Eke twist. Instead of the usual gloomy black dress, she opted for a sleek, body-hugging gown with a plunging neckline and those signature long, dark nails.  

The result? Equal parts spooky and seductive. Because if you’re going to dress up as a fictional character, why not make sure you outshine the original?  

Mercy Eke in Halloween

Bridal Beauty: Inspiring Wedding Day Elegance  

Though Mercy hasn’t walked down the aisle (yet), her bridal-inspired photoshoots give us a glimpse of what her big day might look like. In one stunning shoot, she wore a fitted mermaid gown with intricate lace detailing and a long, flowing train. The makeup? Soft, romantic, and glowing, because even on her wedding day, Mercy would never be caught overdoing the highlight. (Okay, maybe just a little.)  

Her bridal aesthetic? Timeless elegance with a touch of drama, because what’s a wedding without a little “wow” factor?

Mercy Eke in bridal inspo outfit

Everyday Chic: Mastering Casual Elegance 

Mercy’s secret? She makes effortless look effortful. Even in casual wear, she’s serving looks. Think:  

– Bodycon dresses to perfection, paired with heels because “flats are for the weak.”

Mercy in a bodycon dress

– Denim blazers with biker shorts, because who says you can’t be cozy and sexy at the same time? 

Mercy in denim jacket and biker’s short

– jumpsuit-chic style, because if you’re going anywhere simple, you might as well look like you’re heading to a photoshoot.  

Mercy in a jumpsuit

Her off-duty style proves that you don’t need a red carpet to dress like a star, just confidence and a really good tailor.  

Fashion Philosophy: Confidence and Self-Expression

Mercy’s style isn’t just about trends, it’s about attitude. In her own words:  

“Fashion is how I express myself. If I feel good in it, I wear it, whether people like it or not.”

And that’s the key to her appeal. Whether she’s in a couture gown or a simple jeans-and-crop-top combo, Mercy wears every outfit like it’s her last. Because at the end of the day, the best accessory isn’t a designer bag, it’s confidence.  

Mercy in high-fashion

Entrepreneurial Flair: MNM Luxury 

Of course, Mercy isn’t just a fashion icon, she’s also a savvy businesswoman. Her luxury wig line, MNM Luxury, offers high-quality hairpieces that are as glamorous as she is. Because if anyone knows the power of a good wig, it’s the Queen of Highlights herself.  

From lace fronts to bold, colorful units, MNM Luxury caters to women who want to slay hard, just like Mercy.  

Mercy in rich aunty bubu gown

Mercy Eke’s fashion sense is a mix of daring, elegance, and unapologetic self-love. Whether she’s turning a red carpet into her personal runway or making sweatpants look high-fashion, one thing is clear:  

She doesn’t follow trends, she sets them. 

And that, ladies and gentlemen, is why the Queen of Highlights will always be that girl. 

What’s your favorite Mercy Eke fashion moment? Drop a comment below, or better yet, which look should she try next?

Read Also: Mercy Eke Kicks Off April in Style: “Another Month to Reign, Another Season to Shine