Wizkid, who is from the bustling and vibrant city of Lagos, Nigeria, has relentlessly popularized Afrobeats around the world. At the same time, the musician has carved out an intriguing niche for himself in the world of luxury fashion, seamlessly blending designs by African and European designers. He collaborated frequently with the late Virgil Abloh, and following the designer’s death last year, the musician paid a moving on-stage tribute to him at the Made in Lagos concert.
Wizkid performed at New York’s famed Madison Square Garden for the first time last week (which, naturally, was sold out). Karen Binns, a London-based creative director, styled his looks, which were appropriately Lagos-flavored and braggadocious. Wizkid expertly combined pieces by various designers, including a fur coat by Saint Laurent, a pair of leather Dolce & Gabbana gloves, and a black-on-black sequined suit by Nigerian designer Tokyo James. There were also some lovely statement accessories, such as stacked necklaces and dark sunglasses.
The look was part of the superstar’s impressively busy week. Wizkid appeared on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon two days later, after entertaining thousands at MSG, wearing a more understated and minimalist black look for his stripped-down performance of “Money & Love.” Two days later, he made history as the first-ever recipient of the newly created “Best Afrobeats” category at the American Music Awards. Also, his highly anticipated album, More Love, Less Ego, will be released. A busy week for a household name.
As Wizkid—and afrobeats in general—grow in popularity around the world, so does his appearance. “Wizkid’s style is a representation of his exposure to the world: eclectic, sexy, and free,” Bass says.
Check out the behind-the-scenes photos of the singer getting ready for his Madison Square Garden concert and his dinner, sponsored by Hennessy, to commemorate the release of More Love, Less Ego.