The 2026 Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards red carpet featured a mix of bold fashion statements, with several celebrities drawing criticism for their outfits. While Osas Ighodaro, Tobi Bakre and Shaun Okojie received praise for their looks, others were widely panned by fashion observers. Veteran actor Kanayo O. Kanayo wore a gold outfit inspired by King Charles, aiming for opulence but landing on costume-like execution. Eniola Ajao arrived in a balloon-like dress designed by Elegante by Tiannah, a choice described as baffling despite her well-done hair and makeup. Stan Nze wore a black beaded jacket with a puff skirt by Amdiddy, a continuation of the Igbo Odogwu trend that critics said unflatteringly skewed his proportions.
Queen Mercy Atang wore a gold floor-length gown resembling a bread pyramid, also by Elegante by Tiannah, and carried a pot of beans as an accessory, leading to speculation she was promoting her bakery. Juliet Ibrahim's colourful mermaid-cut dress by Torias Apparel was criticized for clashing colours and excessive shoulder appliqué. Saga Deolu, the ex-BBNaija housemate, wore a black suit by Fai World with a high collar meant to evoke Count Dracula, but observers found it ridiculous, especially with a keyhole brooch on the tie. Liquorose wore a dull outfit from Prudential Atelier, described as forgettable despite her usual strong glam.
Simi Drey's silver dress had appliqué likened to Christmas tinsel, detracting from an otherwise pretty appearance. Elozonam's outfit by Jeff Urban Clothing was deemed overdesigned, with mismatched beading, exaggerated shoulders and split trousers. Grand Prince Ita wore a white suit by Splendour Official with imprecise crystal beading that looked cheap. Steve Chuks' two-tone jacket and wide-legged pleated trousers by Kadi Clo were overshadowed by a floor-dragging appendage that made his legs appear stilted.
Queen Mercy Atang wore a gown that looked like a bread pyramid and carried beans, suggesting a bakery promotion on a red carpet meant for fashion, not advertising. Her choice risks reducing her public image to gimmickry rather than glamour. If designers like Elegante by Tiannah encourage such concepts, Nigerian red carpet credibility may suffer. Boldness without taste rarely wins style points.
Editorial note: AI-assisted opinion, not established fact. Full disclaimer →
