Let’s be honest: Lagos is basically a fashion show, every single day. Whether it’s an art event, a night out at Hard Rock, or just walking into the supermarket somebody will be watching what you’re wearing. And Lagosians? We dress. But when your account balance is “humble”, and everything online is priced in USD or heartbreak… How are we supposed to keep up? Well, here’s what I’ve learned (and unlearned) while trying to serve looks on a budget. 1. You Don’t Need New, You Need Different I used to think I had to buy new clothes constantly to look good, until I realized I was just buying different versions of the same top. Now? I rotate smarter. Layering, reworking, swapping accessories suddenly that same outfit gives a new vibe without spending a dime. Sometimes, I even “refurbish” an old piece and boom a fresh fit. 2. Thrift is Still Gold Call it okrika, bend down select, Yaba finds? it still slaps. Yes, it's an effort. Yes, you’ll see some wild things. But the gems? Worth it. Pro tip: Go with a moodboard in mind so you don’t just buy vibes. 3. Follow Fashion Creators Who Dress Like You There’s no point getting outfit inspo from people living in Paris with 12° weather. Start following Nigerian fashion creators with your style and body type. They’ll remind you that you don’t need 20k to look expensive. Sometimes you just need good tailoring and clean sneakers. 4. Tailors Are Underrated Stop playing with your plug. That oversized shirt? Make it a crop. That old wrapper? Turn it into a two-piece. Sometimes the best drip is not bought, it’s reimagined. 5. Find Your Style, Not Just What’s Trending Trends are fun, but they’re also expensive to keep up with. You don’t have to dress like everyone on your TL to look stylish. If you feel good in it, you already won. Period. Final Word: You don’t need to break your account to look good. You need creativity, confidence, and maybe… a tailor that gets it. And if you ever need help flipping that “almost fine” piece into your new fave outfit? You already know where to find us