The MAG weekly Fashion and Lifestyle Blog for the modern African girl by Lydia, every Friday at 1700 hrs. Nr 185 26th December, 2025
Lydia's Weekly Lifestyle blog is for today's African girl, so no subject is taboo. My purpose is to share things that may interest today's African girl.
This week's contributors: Lydia, Pépé Pépinière, Titi. This week's subjects: The Future Is Fashion: 2026 Trends to expect in West Africa , Will the beard continue through 2026? Ministry of Sick Care, (M.O.S.C), and The Venue
The Future Is Fashion: 2026 Trends to expect in West Africa.
If 2025 taught us anything, it’s that West Africa is no longer “catching up” to global fashion — we’re setting the pace. From Accra to Lagos, Abidjan to Dakar, the region is buzzing with bold creatives, fearless dressers, and a new wave of Afro-luxury that’s ready to take over 2026. So buckle up, fashionistas — here are the trends that will be shaping our wardrobes in the year ahead.
Neo-Ankara: The Rise of Tech-Infused Traditional Prints. 2026 is the year Ankara evolves — again. Think glow-infused fabrics, reflective details for nightlife, weather-adaptive cotton blends, and digital patterns inspired by AI art. Designers are merging tradition with tech to create prints that feel futuristic yet undeniably African. Expect thermo-reactive motifs, 3D-embroidered patterns, and Ankara suits reimagined for corporate slay queens and kings.
The Return of Tailored Power Dressing:
Sharp shoulders. Cinched waists. Sculpted silhouettes.
Power dressing is back — but softer, sleeker, and more Afro-centric. In 2026, West African tailoring will focus on fluid suits, tone-on-tone styling, minimalist metallic accents, and gender-neutral structured pieces. Corporate wardrobes will lean into cool neutrals like clay, sand, kola-nut brown, and millet gold.
Afro-Resort Wear Every Day:
With travel culture exploding, resort wear is no longer just for holidays. Get ready for linen sets, crochet dresses, flowy kaftans, and raffia accessories as everyday staples. Designers are embracing breezy, breathable fabrics perfect for West African heat — but serving effortless elegance.
Statement Accessories: Bigger, Bolder, Brighter
2026 accessories in West Africa are loud and unapologetic:
Oversized artisan jewelry
Hand-carved wooden clutches
Beaded crowns inspired by royalty
Geometric sunglasses
Stacked anklets
It’s the year of maximalist accessorizing, driven by a renewed love for craftsmanship and heritage.
Emerald pencil skirts with neutral bodysuits.
Berry red suits for the daring queen.
Metallic accents here and there because why not? It’s giving glamour without shouting “I’m the office Christmas tree.”
Tip: Harmattan dust + white clothing? Choose wisely. Or carry wipes. You know your enemies.
Ankara… But Festive!
Nobody does Christmas creativity like the Accra fashionista:
Ankara with gold foiling.
Wax prints featuring deep greens, burgundies, or navy.
Subtle shimmer woven into patterns
A dramatic peplum top here, a structured blazer there.
This is the season to let African prints mingle with corporate silhouettes. From Makola to the boardroom, the slay is intentional.
Statement Sleeves With Corporate Discipline:
Puffy sleeves, bishop sleeves, ruffles — the girls are not holding back.
But of course, we balance it with:
Straight-leg trousers.
Midi skirts.
Minimal accessories.
Let the sleeves do the talking while you close deals like the star you are.
Metallic-thread blouses
Subtle sequin trims
Gold-button blazers
If your outfit jingles when you walk, it’s a sign you’ve gone too far. Step back. Reassess.
The Corporate Christmas Accessory Edit: Accessories? The real holiday spirit.
Pearl earrings (soft girl energy)
Gold hoops (controlled baddie vibes)
Structured handbags that say “I sign important documents”.
Festive nails in deep wine, cocoa, or emerald green.
And the crown jewel?
A flawless, harmattan-proof matte makeup look. Hydration is your co-pilot, darling.
Shoes That Sleigh (Pun Very Intended):
Harmattan dust is disrespectful — choose footwear accordingly.
Block heels
Square-toe pumps
Festive-but-corporate mules
Metallic low heels for Friday Christmas jams
And for the love of Detty December, moisturize those ankles.
Friday Is for Corporate Detty: Fridays in December? Say less.
This is when the fun corporate Christmas outfits step out:
Flowing satin co-ords.
Ankara suits with personality
Glimmering tops styled with tailored pants
Flared midi dresses that swish with every step
Meetings end early. The office party is loading. You’re already glowing.
Don’t underestimate a good pair of sunglasses for those pre-meeting walks from the car park — because even CEOs need shade.
Heat-Proof but Chic:
The Accra heat is no joke, but your style doesn’t have to melt with it.
Choose breathable fabrics like cotton, chiffon, or lightweight linen. Stay cool in flowy midi dresses, wide-leg trousers, and sleeveless blouses that still look professional.
Pro tip: Always have a compact powder and face mist in your bag — because glowing and sweating are two very different things.
Friday Freedom: The Makola Comeback.
Ah, Casual Friday — the unofficial fashion holiday of the corporate week!
This is your moment to bring Ankara into the mix. A smart print dress, a pencil skirt with bold colors, or even an Ankara blazer gives “I know my culture and my career.”
Pair with block heels, a bright lip, and your weekend smile. You made it through the week — you earned that slay.
So the next time someone asks where you got your outfit, just smile and say, “A little Makola magic — and a lot of boss energy.”
If you know your tailors and your fabrics, you can easily turn ₵100 worth of material into an outfit that screams executive presence.
Pro tip: Stick with classic prints and neutral tones. Think deep blues, rich browns, and subtle golds — they say “promotion ready,” not “weekend wedding guest.”
Tailor-made Confidence: In Accra, your tailor is practically your stylist. A well-cut suit or dress can change your whole aura. Forget the oversized blazers and stiff skirts — go for fit and flair.
A cinched waist, structured shoulders, or a peplum hem can transform “office outfit” into “main character energy.”
When your clothes fit well, you don’t just walk — you glide through the office corridors like it’s your runway (because it is).
Go for the Right Jeans.
Not every pair of jeans can handle a boardroom. The cut, colour, and fit matter more than you think.
Choose: Dark Wash Jeans – Deep indigo or black denim instantly reads “corporate chic.”
Straight-Leg or Slim-Fit Cuts – These create a clean, tailored line that mimics dress trousers.
High-Waisted Styles – They cinch the waist and add structure to your look.
Avoid:
Distressed, ripped, or bleached jeans.
Oversized or low-rise styles that look too casual.
Pair with a Polished Top.
The trick is to elevate your jeans with a smart top that means business.
Button-Down Shirts: A crisp white or powder blue shirt tucked neatly into your jeans is a timeless power move. Add a slim belt for a refined finish.
Silk or Satin Blouses: Add a hint of luxury and femininity while keeping it professional.
Structured Tops: Think peplum blouses or tailored shirts — they instantly sharpen your silhouette.
Local twist: Try pairing your jeans with an Ankara-trimmed shirt or a bold printed blouse. It’s professional with a pop of personality.
Layer with Authority.
Layers make your outfit look intentional and sophisticated.
Blazers: Your best friend for corporate denim looks. Go for neutrals like beige, navy, or charcoal — or make a statement with bold colors like emerald or mustard.
Longline Vests or Coats: Perfect for boardrooms that blast the AC, they add instant polish and structure.
Cardigans: A soft cardigan in solid tones can make jeans look office-appropriate without feeling stuffy.
Step Up Your Shoe Game.
Shoes can make or break your look.
Heels: Block or kitten heels add polish without sacrificing comfort.
Loafers: A classic choice for sleek sophistication.
Mules or Pointed Flats: Perfect for a smart-casual meeting day.
If you’re running around Accra’s heat, stylish flats or slingbacks can keep things comfy yet chic.
Accessorize with Intention.
Keep your accessories classy and minimal — think elegant, not extra.
Structured Bags: A leather tote or satchel instantly elevates denim.
Jewelry: Gold hoops, pearl studs, or delicate necklaces add just the right touch of elegance.
Watch: Because a confident woman always keeps time — in style.
Tip: Confidence is Your Best Outfit
Even the best-styled jeans mean nothing without poise. Walk into that meeting like you own both the room and the brand. When you look good and feel comfortable, your confidence naturally shines — and that’s what people remember.
Jeans can absolutely slay in the corporate space — if styled with care. The Accra Girl knows that success isn’t just about what you wear, but how you wear it. So next time you have a big meeting, slip into your smartest pair of jeans, grab your blazer, and serve boss energy from 9 to 5.
Feeling extra? Mix stripe directions — vertical top with horizontal shorts — and watch the compliments roll in. It’s giving chaotic fashion genius.
Sunday Night: Stripes that Sparkle.
Stripes don’t stop when the sun sets! Metallic and shimmery striped fabrics are your secret weapon for night outs. Think gold, silver, or jewel-toned diagonal stripes that catch the light every time you move.
A striped jumpsuit or wrap dress + hoop earrings + glossy lip = instant main character energy. You’ll be glowing brighter than the lights at Bloom Bar.
A Little Culture, A Lot of Style.
Let’s not forget our roots! From the woven stripes of kente to the rich textures of aso oke, our African stripes tell stories. Designers are blending these traditional patterns into modern pieces — crop tops, mini skirts, even office wear. So next time you rock stripes, know you’re carrying a piece of home with style and pride.
Stripes aren’t just a pattern — they’re a personality. Bold when you need to be, simple when you want to chill, and always effortlessly stylish.
So next time you stand in front of your wardrobe, don’t overthink it. Grab those stripes, throw them on, and strut out like the Accra queen you are. Because honestly? You were born to slay in stripes.
Stripes, darling, are not just lines on fabric—they’re a lifestyle. Bold, confident, a little unpredictable… just like the Accra girl herself. Whether you’re catching tro-tro to work, brunching at cafés, or hitting a night out, stripes are the easiest way to look effortlessly stylish without even trying too hard. So if you’ve been wondering how to wear your stripes without looking like a traffic cone (we’ve all been there ), relax—your girl’s got you covered. Here’s your ultimate guide to rocking stripes like the confident, stylish Everyday queen you are. Let’s get into it!
Monday to Friday: Boss Babe in Pinstripes.
Work clothes don’t have to be boring. A tailored pinstripe blazer or wide-leg trousers says, “Yes, I came to the meeting — and yes, I look amazing.”
Go for light fabrics like cotton or linen — because this Accra heat doesn’t play.
Vertical stripes elongate your frame and make you look super polished. Pair them with solid colours (think white, beige, or navy) and finish off with comfy loafers or block heels. Now that’s executive realness, Ghana edition.
Colour crush: Mustard, deep green, or burgundy—those tones eat under natural light.
Accessories: Gold hoops, a beaded bracelet, or leather mules. That’s the Ghanaian soft life energy we love.
Friday: Casual, Cute & Ready for Chops.
Friday is the runway between work and vibes. You’re professional till 4:59 PM, and at 5:00 you’re brunch-ready.
Ladies, pull out high-waisted jeans or wide-legged trousers with a tucked-in chiffon blouse.
Gents can keep it crisp in chinos and a linen shirt (because we know the guys are reading this too).
Style note: Clean sneakers or loafers are totally fair game.
Pro move: A signature fragrance completes the look—think fresh, floral, or woody.
Survive the Accra Weather (and Still Look Like a 10/10)
Carry a shawl or blazer—you’ll need it for that icy office AC.
Say no to polyester — it’s basically a sauna in fabric form.
Light colours = less sweat, more glow.
Always pack a hand fan—yes, the fancy foldable ones count as an accessory now.
Corporate life in Accra doesn’t mean dull suits and dark colours. Mix prints, play with fabric, and never be afraid to show a little personality. The key is balance—stay professional, but make it fashion.
Because dear office girl, when you look good, you work good—and you’re way too stylish to be melting in polyester.
Pair your prints with a crisp white blouse or a structured blazer. Clean, powerful, yet feminine.
Pro tip: Keep your Ankara lightweight — cotton prints are perfect for the heat.
Pair with: Nude pumps or simple block heels. You’ll thank yourself by noon.
Tuesday: Chill, But Make It Smart.
The week’s pace is picking up, so let your outfit breathe. A linen shirt dress or culotte set keeps things easy but professional.
Colour inspo: soft greens, sandy neutrals, and light blue — perfect for Accra’s sunshine.
Local hack: Keep a mini handkerchief or tissue in your bag. It’s not “sweating,” it’s just that tropical glow trying to break free.
Wednesday: Midweek Monochrome.
When in doubt, go monochrome. An all-white or all-navy fit says “organized” even if your inbox says otherwise.
Try pairing a silk blouse with wide-leg trousers, or go for a tailored kaftan in a single tone. Simple. Chic. Strategic.
Style trick: Add interest with texture — pleats, embroidery, or a soft ruffle detail keep your look from feeling too plain.
