Nudity is not fashion. Enough said.
A sense of style champions personal identity over algorithmic pressure, craftsmanship over disposability, and comfort over viral contortions.
Unfortunately, pressure is pulling down the true sense of fashion. This pushback comes as social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok are saturated with a specific, attention-grabbing aesthetic: extreme skin exposure.
In Nigeria and beyond, what began as bold, avant-garde styling has, for some, morphed into a mainstream spectacle. At high-profile events, it’s increasingly common to see outfits where the line between clothing and undergarments is blurred—think see-through fabrics, plunging necklines, and body-con silhouettes that leave little to the imagination.
For a growing number of female celebrities and socialites, this “less is more” philosophy is the new normal, a calculated tool for commanding the digital news cycle. “Boldness in dressing has become a pathway to self-confidence, online validation, and social media buzz,” observes one cultural critic.
The trend has even seeped into traditionally conservative spaces like cultural weddings, sparking debate about shifting societal norms and a perceived loss of “moral compass.”
Yet, a significant contingent argues this race toward exposure is a hollow trend. “Nudity is not fashion,” asserts one style commentator. “Trends that exist only to go viral without comfort, craftsmanship, or personal identity don’t last.” The critique extends to the engine of much modern fashion: the relentless, wasteful cycle of fast fashion. In 2026, many are choosing intention, sustainability, and comfort over hype.
Two Things You Must Take Seriously in 2026:
1. Embrace Your Skin Tone, Don’t Bleach It: One trend firmly on the “avoid” list is skin bleaching. “We were not educated properly before,” notes Angela Adams. “Now that we know it causes more harm than good, we should begin to love our skin even more. I believe each one of us is beautiful with our diverse colours.” The call is for a celebration of natural beauty and heritage over harmful, homogenizing standards.
2. Be Intentional About Your Trainer: The ultimate symbol of this shift toward mindful ease might be the humble trainer. No longer confined to the gym, trainers have become the minimalist’s secret weapon. “They’re practical, yes, but they also bring an ease to minimalist outfits like no other footwear can,” explains Barnice, a stylist. They soften tailored blazers, ground elegant linen sets, and add a touch of effortless cool to sleek silhouettes, preventing them from looking overly polished or rigid.
The fashion landscape of 2026 is thus a battleground of philosophies. On one side, the spectacle of viral, skin-baring looks driven by digital metrics. On the other, a growing movement toward personal expression, sustainable choices, and authentic comfort. It’s a choice between dressing for the feed and dressing for the self.
This year, the most radical statement may not be what you reveal, but what you consciously choose to value.
